Galloway
The River Bladnoch catchment faces significant acidification, threatening aquatic life, including salmon. This project tests scallop shells as a natural solution by applying crushed shells to ~3 km of forest tracks to influence runoff and placing whole shells in three acidified watercourses. These applications aim to raise alkalinity, counteracting acid rain and pollution from damaged peatlands.
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This is the first known UK study to test and monitor scallop shell applications in acidified watercourses using these techniques. While past road applications have been done, they lacked scientific monitoring. This project addresses that gap with a five-year trial, systematically tracking changes between 2025 and 2030 in pH, water chemistry, and aquatic biodiversity to assess effectiveness.
The River Bladnoch District Salmon Fishery Board initiated the project and asked GFT to develop the idea. The project then gained strong support from Forestry Land Scotland, Scottish Woodlands, and private landowners.
“The latest ‘scallop shell’ project is a great example of Galloway Fisheries Trust taking an innovative, science based approach to study the effects of adding shell material to drains and forest roads on localised watercourse pH. FLS have been able to provide suitable study sites and civil engineering expertise to the project, and we’re eager to see the results.”
– Dr Ed Turner MICFor, Planning & Environment Manager, FLS South Region