Protecting riverbanks and strengthening riparian woodland along the upper River Spey.
This project focused on protecting a vulnerable stretch of riverbank along the Spey at Kingussie from winter livestock pressure, while strengthening riparian woodland along the River Spey.
The work forms part of Chivas Brothers’ The River Within programme, which supports practical, partnership-based action to protect and restore rivers across the Spey catchment. Around 400 metres of riverbank was protected, new riverside woodland was created, and the resilience of existing riparian habitats was improved.
Project Delivery: What did we do?
- Installed fencing to protect 400 metres of riverbank from winter livestock pressure
- Planted 250 native, locally sourced trees along the riverbank creating 0.3 hectares of new riparian woodland
- Species included alder, grey willow, hawthorn, elder, rowan, silver birch and hazel
- Planted trees at low density to allow space for natural regeneration over time
- Improved the resilience of 0.7 hectares of existing riverside woodland by protecting it from grazing.
- Installed an alternative livestock watering system away from the river
Why it matters
Livestock access to riverbanks can damage vegetation, increase erosion and reduce habitat quality for wildlife.
By protecting the riverbank and expanding riparian woodland, this project helps stabilise banks, improve habitat for freshwater species and support a healthier river system. Providing an alternative watering source also allows livestock management to continue while reducing pressure on the river.
Riparian woodland can also deliver wider benefits — from reducing pollution and erosion to improving habitat connectivity and helping rivers respond more naturally to climate change.
Learn more about the benefits of riparian woodland
Learn more about this project
Deep dive into this project by downloading the full project report below.
Or for further inquiries, collaboration, or additional information about the project, please email Penny Lawson, SCI Project Officer.
Project Updates
None to date
Partners and support
This project was delivered by the Spey Catchment Initiative as part of Chivas Brothers’ The River Within programme, in partnership with the local landowner John Macpherson.
We would also like to thank local contractors for their role in delivering the project, including fencing, tree planting and installation of the alternative watering infrastructure.
Chivas Brothers (funders)
John Macpherson (land partner)
