Reports & Action Plans
Large Wood Structures
Dr Grace Skirrow's 59 page report on the effectiveness of Large Woody Structures on the river Don.
River Don Scoping Study Ardhuncart
Ms Grace Prouse, reviewed by Dr Lynsey MacLeary & Alison Wilson 89 page scoping report.
Ardhuncart Forest planning
Dr Douglas Philip Whitfield's report on the existing woodland and the potential of hill woodland and riparian planting
Immediate Focus
The river Don is Scotland’s 6th largest river draining a catchment of 1312km². We understand this is a massive undertaking so we have decided our initial focus on the source of the Don to Afford Bridge. In doing so we expect to effect not just the project areas but have significant impacts on areas further downstream. Utilizing funds, time and effort where will result in the greatest impact for the river as a whole.
FAQ
The River Don Initiative aims to protect and enhance the river’s biodiversity by working with local communities, farmers, and environmental experts. We focus on sustainable fishing, rewilding, reducing agricultural run-off, and creating safe habitats for wildlife to ensure a healthy river ecosystem for future generations.
There are many ways to get involved! You can participate in our volunteer activities, spread awareness about responsible fishing and farming practices, or support our rewilding and habitat restoration efforts. You can also stay informed by following our updates and events on the website.
New fishing locations are being created to ease pressure on overfished areas, giving fish populations a chance to recover and thrive. By redistributing fishing activities, we aim to maintain the health of the river while ensuring anglers can continue enjoying their sport.
The catch and release policy encourages anglers to return fish to the water after catching them, reducing the impact on fish populations. This practice helps preserve native species, promotes biodiversity, and ensures that the river remains a sustainable environment for future fishing.
Farmers can help by adopting environmentally friendly practices, such as creating buffer zones between farmland and the river, reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and managing run-off to prevent pollutants from entering the water. These actions are essential for maintaining the river’s water quality and protecting its ecosystems.
Rewilding is the process of allowing natural habitats to regenerate, helping native plants and animals flourish. Along the River Don, rewilding helps restore natural balance, boosts biodiversity, and provides critical habitats for species that depend on these environments for survival.
Sheltered areas are vital for protecting fish from rising temperatures and extreme weather. We create these by introducing natural features such as trees, rocks, and vegetation along the riverbanks, offering shaded, cooler zones where fish can escape heat stress and thrive.
Join Us
We believe that everyone has a part to play in safeguarding the future of the River Don. Whether you’re a angler, farmer, or nature enthusiast, we invite you to join us in our efforts to protect and revitalise this important natural resource. Together, we can ensure that the River Don continues to be a vibrant, thriving ecosystem for generations to come.