The Spey Catchment Initiative (SCI) is proud to announce its official launch as a newly established Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO). The launch event is scheduled for Thursday, 18th May 2023, at the Boat of Garten Community Hall, featuring the esteemed Feargal Sharkey OBE as the special guest.
A New Chapter for Environmental Stewardship
With a commitment to creating a sustainable, climate-resilient, and thriving natural environment for wildlife and communities throughout the Spey Catchment, the SCI has transitioned into a charitable organisation. Covering an expansive area of 3,000 km² with 36,500 km of streams and rivers, the SCI has been at the forefront of environmental conservation since its inception as a public-private partnership in 2010.
The Initiative has already achieved significant milestones, including the acclaimed Allt Lorgy River Restoration Project, which garnered the prestigious 2020 UK Rivers Prize at the River Restoration Centre annual conference.
Leadership and Vision
Renowned businessman and co-founder of Aberdeen Asset Management, Martin Gilbert, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the SCI. His leadership and vision are set to guide the Initiative towards further success.
“I am honoured to be part of such an important initiative and look forward to working with the SCI team to create a sustainable and thriving natural environment for the Spey Catchment,” said Mr Gilbert.
Launch Event with Feargal Sharkey OBE
The launch event will feature a keynote address by Feargal Sharkey OBE, the former lead singer of The Undertones, a passionate fly fisherman, and a renowned conservationist. Feargal has been a vocal advocate for environmental conservation, particularly in his efforts to combat river pollution and protect British waterways.
“We are thrilled to launch the Spey Catchment Initiative as a new Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation and to have the exceptional support of Feargal Sharkey OBE and Martin Gilbert as our special guest and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, respectively,” said Roger Knight, Spey Fishery Board Director and member of the Spey Catchment Initiative steering group.
The Urgency of Conservation
The SCI’s launch comes at a critical time when joint biodiversity and climate crises threaten river and catchment ecosystems. Many organisations are eager to invest in projects that positively impact the environment, making habitat restoration more urgent than ever.
“The SCI is committed to bringing together communities, businesses, and stakeholders to protect and enhance the natural habitats and biodiversity of the Spey Catchment,” added Roger Knight. “We are excited to work towards a sustainable future for the region.”
About the Spey Catchment Initiative
The Spey Catchment Initiative is dedicated to fostering a sustainable and thriving natural environment across the Spey Catchment area. The Initiative’s projects aim to balance ecological health with community needs, promoting resilience against climate change.
The Initiative’s steering group includes representatives from the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Diageo, Spey Fishery Board, NatureScot, Forestry and Land Scotland, The Highland Council, The Moray Council, National Farmers Union Scotland, RSPB, SEPA, Scottish Forestry, SAC Consulting, and Woodland Trust Scotland.
For more information about the Spey Catchment Initiative and its projects, please visit www.speycatchment.org.
