We would like to make it clear that these are not the
views of one man, but the view of the Trustees and membership of 170.
The Trust would like the local authority our 4 regional councillors
who are also trustees of the common good, to designate the river area from the
A96 Road bridge down stream to the Bailey bridge a wildlife area.
This
would not have to be a legal status. The idea is that the wildlife should have
priority in this area, over other human interests like water sports and
fishing. All this should be on a voluntary basis, recognising that the wildlife
their environment and habitat takes priority.
We
see no reason that the River Nairn angling association cannot abide by this
voluntary code of practice. It should be simple enough for their members to
suspend fishing in this area for the preservation of Salmon stocks and wildlife
safety. By their own admission only a few members actually fish this area
anyway.
As
for the boating fraternity, The Trust finds the use of canoes, Kayaks, and
paddle boarding in this area, far too disturbing to the wildlife to become the
norm. They basically scare the life out of the birds and drive them away, thus
depriving thousands of locals and
holidaymakers the pleasure of viewing them. We have no objection to them as
long as they do not pass the end of the Maggot wall coming from the harbour.
Beyond that lies the Swans nesting island and both river banks used by the
wildlife. In any case the river Nairn is a small shallow spate river,
unsuitable for boating. When High water conditions allow, we have no issue with
canoes passing through from up river. They have the entire Moray firth and
Scottish coastline to amuse themselves.
Finally,
having 4 or 5 signs around the designated wildlife area asking people to keep
their dogs under close control is all that is required. This would be a
reminder to all dog walkers, some of whom are on holiday, that there are ground
nesting birds in the area and their dogs should not be allowed to run amok.
There
is no question of the Trust seeking to impose any ban on any group.
We see no reason why this would not work to the benefit of
all concerned, and the wildlife would have their rightful place on the river.
After
years caring for the river birds, we know how appreciated our water birds are,
by tourists and locals alike. This would be great for Nairn, having a
designated wildlife area in the town and costing the region nothing. Most Towns would love such a thing – for the
common good.
The
Trust monitors and reports pollution incidents, and regularly clears litter as
well.
Our
170 members have spent £11000 in the past 4 years caring for the wildlife and
their environment.
On
behalf of the River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust
Joe
Telfer ( Founder )
__________________________________________________
The fact is, the Trust want to keep the river in this area as free as possible from human interference that would drive away the wildlife, this is to everyone's advantage.
I hope this puts an end to the usual misinformation, rumour and speculation about the Trust Petition. Please sign if you want to keep our wildlife safe.
1 comment:
anon. The Trustees determine trust policy, any member can contact any trustee any time through the proper channels, not by anonymous comments which have no credibility.
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