Dumfries and Galloway’s number one ‘maternity hospital’ for salmon has been helped by SP Energy Networks.
Volunteers from SP Transmission gathered at Crawick Water with Nith District Salmon Fisheries Board to plant 1,000 trees to protect the salmon spawning ground from river bank erosion and habitat loss.
Crawick Water runs from the Lowther Hills to join the River Nith at Crawick near Sanquhar and plays a crucial role in salmon breeding, as well as supporting diverse wildlife and rare plants.
The volunteers , who were brought together from all departments in the business including members of SP Energy Networks’ Sustainability team, planted a variety of trees, including Alder, Cherry, and Scots Pine. These efforts are expected to enhance the riparian habitats surrounding the river, providing increased shading and cooler water which is vital for salmon spawning.
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Jim Henderson expressed his gratitude, stating: "Nith Catchment Fishery Trust are very grateful for the assistance given by SP Energy Networks on their latest riparian woodland habitat scheme on the Crawick Water at Sanquhar. The financial contribution from SP Energy Networks made the project possible. However, our Trust were unaware that they employed such talented tree planters within their ranks. We could hardly keep up with the team on the volunteering day.
“The Crawick day was good humoured with all contributing to a worthwhile cause. Nith fisheries staff work on all SP Energy Networks’ projects within the Nith catchment and enjoy a good working relationship with a joint goal of protecting the River Nith and its environment."
The benefits of planting close to a river bank go beyond supporting salmon populations, the newly planted trees will help filter pollutants and sediments from runoff, improving water quality. Moreover, this type of planting can help stabilise riverbanks, reduce erosion, and act as natural flood mitigation through bank reinforcement and water absorption. Nesting birds and mammals will also benefit from the expanded nature corridors, providing enhanced foraging opportunities.
SP Energy Networks is committed to achieving No Net Loss of biodiversity by 2028 and becoming Nature Positive by 2030. The strategy involves collaboration with various stakeholders, responsible vegetation management, and the implementation of nature-based solutions to enhance flood resilience and ecological connectivity. Focusing on habitat creation and restoration, projects include restoring native woodland, creating new wildlife corridors, and enhancing peatland habitats.
SP Energy Networks remains dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability through community engagement and volunteer efforts. More volunteer days are planned for the future.
Tayler Henderson, Sustainability Specialist at SP Energy Networks added: "The tree planting day at Crawick Water was a fantastic opportunity for our team to contribute to vital local environmental restoration efforts. By planting these trees, we’re helping to enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and support salmon populations in the area.
“This initiative is just one example of SP Energy Networks' commitment to delivering biodiversity and creating a better future for our communities. We look forward to hosting more volunteer days like this to continue our work in protecting and enriching our natural environment."