We are helping the south of Scotland’s waterways and wildlife survive and thrive as part of an exciting partnership with Galloway Fisheries Trust and Forestry and Land Scotland.
As part of our commitment to ‘nature positive’ development and operations, and minimising potential impacts on the environment, we have completed peatland restoration around Loch Moan that will help improve the health of Dumfries and Galloway’s beloved River Cree.
Involving work across an area roughly equivalent to 32 football pitches, the project focused on rewetting the previously forested peatland, so water can flow more naturally into the river, improving water quality, creating stronger conditions for wildlife and supporting healthier fish populations.
A popular angling destination, the River Cree is famed for its salmon and trout and home to one of only three remaining populations of sparling in Scotland, a rare species that depends on clean, healthy water to survive.
Covering a total of 22.5 hectares, the restored peatland will play a vital role in strengthening the wider ecosystem for years.
Healthy peatlands store huge amounts of carbon, which can be released into the atmosphere if the peatland is drained or damaged. This project not only helps by returning waterlogged ‘anoxic’ conditions and reducing the potential for carbon emissions, it also improves the water quality and supports local wildlife.
Black grouse are expected to benefit, alongside reptiles, amphibians and a host of other species that depend on rich, undisturbed natural habitats.
The project is the latest being delivered through our Action Plan for Nature, ensuring that network investment not only powers homes and businesses but also supports Scotland’s natural environment and local communities.
Gill Renwick, Sustainability Manager for SP Energy Networks, said: “Our communities are at the heart of everything we do, and we have a clear strategy for how we will minimise our impact on nature, first, ensuring no net loss of biodiversity by 2028 and then becoming nature positive by the end of this decade. Projects like this - improving natural habitats - are key to how we will get there and it’s been great to work with Galloway Fisheries Trust and Forestry and Land Scotland to make this happen.”
The site is very wet and holds a strong storage of sphagnum moss, which is a key indicator species for healthy peatland. This is promising for the recovery of this site and indicates that the land will continue to become greener, richer and more alive with every passing season.
Gill added: “It’s wonderful to see our efforts are already having an impact. By bringing this area back to life, we’re making a positive and long-lasting impact that will continue to ensure we provide a modern, reliable and resilient electricity network that works for both people and planet.”
Dr Ed Turner, Planning & Environment Manager, from Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) added: “A huge thank you to SP Energy Networks for backing this work. Peatland restoration is an important part of FLS’ land management strategy, and in the right place, makes a long-term impact on carbon storage, water quality, and habitat provision. The partnership approach by SPEN and Galloway Fisheries Trust at Loch Moan has resulted in a really successful project delivery mechanism that we hope to continue to build upon.”
Kacie Jess, Project Manager, from Galloway Fisheries Trust (GFT) said: “The River Cree is a special place, and work like this helps it in the ways that matter: cleaner water running off the land, more stable conditions, and a healthier river for fish and other wildlife. It’s great to partner with an organisation that’s not just talking about being ‘nature positive’ but backing it with real support on the ground.”
View more information in our Action Plan for Nature
View our transmission network investment plans