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Laggan Floodplain: A Hydrological Study

The First Step in Improving the River and Its Banks for the Local Community and Wildlife 

The Spey Catchment Initiative (SCI) is committed to creating sustainable, climate-resilient habitats that benefit both wildlife and local communities. People are at the heart of what we do, and collaboration is key to ensuring that our shared natural environment thrives for generations to come.

Recognising the need for a deeper understanding of the Laggan floodplain, SCI commissioned a hydrological study to explore ways to restore the river’s natural connection to its floodplain, creating benefits for the environment, reducing flood risk, and supporting local livelihoods.

To make this possible, we approached the Cairngorms National Park Authority for funding, which they generously provided. Their financial support has allowed us to take this important first step toward improving the River Spey and its banks for the benefit of the local community and wildlife.

Why Improve the Laggan Floodplain?

This section of the River Spey has been significantly altered by historic engineering works, including dams and embankments, which have disrupted natural processes and impacted the local community. These changes have reduced flood storage, created lower-quality habitats, and altered the flow of water and sediment. We are seeing the impacts of this more and more as effects of climate change increase.

Improving this section of the River Spey offers positive opportunities for wildlife and the local community:

  • Create sustainable habitats that support a wide range of wildlife.
  • Improve natural flood management by slowing and storing floodwaters.
  • Build resilience to climate change by retaining water and restoring natural processes.
  • Provide broader benefits to local communities, including enhanced ecological services.

This work aligns with SCI’s overarching goal: to create a future where thriving natural habitats coexist harmoniously with vibrant, resilient communities.

Working Together for Positive Solutions

SCI values the input and collaboration of local farmers and landowners as vital partners in this work. Once we identified the need for this study, we ensured that those most directly affected would be central to the process. We are proud of the strong relationships we’ve built across the Spey catchment and remain committed to working closely with the local farming community to develop positive solutions that address their priorities while enhancing the natural environment.

By prioritising partnership and transparent communication, we aim to gather support for outcomes that benefit farmers, local communities, and wildlife alike.

What Has the Study Found?

The study, conducted by Kaya Consulting Limited, includes extensive surveys, hydrological modelling, and consultations with local landowners and farmers. It has identified several potential restoration options, ranging from small-scale interventions, like creating wetland features, to larger-scale efforts to reconnect the river to its floodplain at strategic locations. These are not definitive proposals but serve as starting points for collaborative discussions.

You can download and read the full report here.

Community Involvement

Community engagement has been integral to this project from the outset. A liaison meeting in February 2023 gathered local knowledge about flooding patterns, sedimentation, and other key concerns. This input helped shape the study’s findings and will continue to guide our approach as we move forward.

Next Steps

As we progress, SCI remains dedicated to transparency and collaboration. Our next steps include:

  • Engaging with farmers and landowners to discuss the possibilities and gauge interest.
  • If there are any potential opportunities identified, and as required, have further discussions with the wider community to gather input and address concerns.

Addressing Concerns

We understand that changes to the river and floodplain will raise questions or uncertainties. This study is the first step in an open and collaborative process. No decisions have been made, and any future interventions will be widely consulted with all stakeholders, and will aim to balance environmental and community benefits.

Upcoming Engagement

A meeting with Laggan farmers is scheduled for Wednesday, the 22nd of January, at the Laggan Community Hall between 10 am and 12 noon to share details of the study, answer questions, and gather further input.

Originally planned as a meeting with local farmers directly involved in the study, we have now opened the meeting to the wider community due to public interest. This is a great opportunity to hear about the study’s findings, learn more about our goals, ask any questions or share your thoughts about the study.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact the Spey Catchment Initiative at [email protected]