water scarcity – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

SEPA warn of possible water abstraction restrictions next week

Parts of eastern Scotland remain under sustained water scarcity pressure, and a small number of catchments are approaching trigger levels where regulatory restrictions on abstractions may be required early next week.

The latest water scarcity report from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) shows the situation across the country.

SEPA’s four-tier water scarcity scale goes from Early Warning through Alert and Moderate Scarcity up to Significant Scarcity. The most impacted catchments are currently those at Moderate Scarcity.

Moderate Scarcity – Escalated this week: Spey, Almond and Tweed catchments. They join the Deveron, Ythan, Don (Aberdeenshire), Esk (Angus), Firth of Tay and Tyne (Lothian), which have been at Moderate Scarcity for several months.

Alert – Escalated this week: Earn and Orkney catchments. The Findhorn, Dee (Aberdeenshire) and Firth of Forth catchments remain at this level.

Early Warning – Escalated this week: Forth, Esk (Dumfriesshire), Annan, Nith, Dee (Galloway), Cree and Leven (Dunbartonshire) catchments have been moved from Normal to Early Warning. Wick, Helmsdale, Tay, Clyde, Naver and Thurso catchments remain at this level.

Not enough rain

Localised thunderstorms at the end of last week, including reports of large hail in Dundee and parts of Aberdeenshire, did not change the overall water scarcity picture. Showers were short lived and patchy, often missing the catchments that needed rain most, and on very dry ground intense rain tends to run off rather than soak in – limiting recharge of rivers and groundwater.

Rainfall data underlines how long this situation has been building. On the east coast of Scotland every month since the start of 2025 has been drier than average. In some eastern areas the deficit extends back to June 2024, with 40% less rainfall than the long-term average over that period.

That prolonged shortfall, coupled with the warm, sunny spring and summer has left rivers, soils and groundwater under pressure.

Areas at risk of restrictions

Early Warning, Alert and Moderate Scarcity indicate the situation on a river catchment scale – based on river levels, groundwater and soil moisture.

Significant scarcity is different. It reflects severe, sustained low flows assessed over a period of time, and is the point at which restrictions are likely.

If very low flows persist in the Deveron, Ythan, Upper and Lower Don in Aberdeenshire, North Fife and the Lower Tweed, SEPA expect those areas could move into significant scarcity as early as next week. The agency has been in direct contact with abstractors in the areas most at risk.

SEPA assess water scarcity each week using long term data and on the ground evidence. Where sustained low flows risk long-term environmental harm, the agency can reduce or temporarily stop licenced abstractions. Any measures would be targeted and time limited, reviewed regularly and lifted as soon as flows recover. If restrictions are required, affected licence holders will be notified directly.

Kenny Boag, SEPA’s Head of Environmental Performance (National), said: “Some rivers in the east of Scotland are days away from the point where restrictions may be needed to protect the environment.

“We are speaking directly to licence holders, so no one should be caught off guard. If you abstract water from the environment, you should already have plans in place. Reduce volumes where you can, stagger abstractions and make sure you are following the conditions of your licence.”

When will the rain come?

There remains uncertainty about the weather next week, as the remnants of ex hurricane Erin could influence Scotland’s weather. It’s too early to say what that will mean for individual catchments, and SEPA will continue to monitor conditions closely.

Water scarcity remains a concern despite recent rainfall

Despite the recent rainfall over the last week, it has been insufficient to see much recovery across most of Scotland, with low river flows persisting, particularly in the east.

Although rain is forecast over the coming days, SEPA say well above-average rainfall will be needed to reverse the effects of the long dry spell. We are continuing to urge water users to be vigilant as parts of the country remain under pressure.

Eight river catchments all remain at Moderate Scarcity – the Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don, Dee, Esk, Firth of Tay and Tyne. The Findhorn, Firth of Forth and Almond catchments remain at Alert, however in the far north, southeast and southwest, there has been some improvement in river flows and ground conditions with the Wick, Helmsdale and Tweed catchments recovered to Early Warning.

Many of the areas in Moderate Scarcity have had less than 70% of their average rainfall since the start of the year. The result is that, for the first half of the year, many of the associated river flow stations have had the highest number of days at low flows on record. The time record of some of these river flow stations span almost 100 years.

Scotland’s water scarcity levels are grounded in current data, not forecasts. SEPA’s team of specialists maintain and calibrate a national network of river flow stations — a science-led system that gives an accurate picture of pressures on our rivers, lochs, and water supplies.

With the rivers already stressed after months of below average rainfall even brief periods of rain over the summer often will not have the impact the public might expect. Water may not soak into the ground properly or evenly enough to reverse the pressure. This means warmer temperatures, lower oxygen, and shrinking channels will increase pressure on fish, aquatic life, and habitats.

Kenny Boag, Head of Environmental Performance (National) from SEPA said: “We’ve had rain in some areas but not widespread recovery.

“Although there has been relief in the West, most of the East Coast continues to experience water stress. Many catchments remain under significant pressure and the water environment is still in a vulnerable state. More rain is forecast over the next few days, but we need sustained rainfall in the right places over weeks, not just days, to make a real difference.

“We welcome the proactive steps taken by many abstractors, especially in areas of Alert and Moderate scarcity who have already been planning ahead and taking steps to use water efficiently. We urge them to continue to do that as we won’t wait until the situation reaches crisis point to act, and we don’t expect water users to either.

“We will continue to work closely with abstractors and sectors using water from our environment in the areas facing sustained water scarcity. Clear, early communication is being provided so no one is caught off guard. We know how important water is to the Scottish economy, particularly sectors like farming, food and drink, and energy – and we also know that without a healthy water environment those sectors cannot thrive.”

SEPA continues to urge everyone from farmers and producers to industry and manufacturers to use water efficiently and manage this shared resource responsibly. Advice is available on SEPA’s website, as well as from SEPA staff contacting abstractors with licences in areas at risk.

Early Warning areas – conditions are dry, but no action is currently required. Abstractors should begin preparing for potential action.
Alert areas – water levels are low. SEPA advises voluntary reductions in non-essential water use.
Moderate Scarcity areas – there are clear environmental impacts. Action is expected from abstractors to protect rivers and the species that rely on them.

SEPA have issued advice against bathing at Dunbar East Bathing Water.

A routine sample showed a high level of bacteria. They also received a report from a member of the public about possible sewage near the site. This was reported to Scottish Water.

As a precaution, SEPA have updated the bathing water signage at Dunbar East to advise against entering the water.

This advice will remain in place until water quality returns to a satisfactory level.

SEPA will take further samples on 7 July.

We are working closely with @ELCouncil and @scottish_water to monitor the situation and keep the public informed.

More info: https://beta.sepa.scot/news/2025/advice-against-bathing-at-dunbar-east/

For the latest updates and to find your local bathing water, please visit dedicated site at https://bathingwaters.sepa.org.uk

All of Scotland now at some level of water scarcity

Most of mainland Scotland’s east coast has now moved to Moderate Scarcity, according to the latest Water Situation Report from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

River catchments across the Deveron, Ythan, Don (Aberdeenshire), Dee (Aberdeen), Esk, Firth of Tay, Firth of Forth, Almond, Tyne (Lothian), Tweed and Esk (Dumfriesshire) are now at Moderate.

There has been no recovery elsewhere and most of the rest of Scotland is now at Alert, with only the Inner and Outer Hebrides remaining at Early Warning.

This follows on from a drier than normal autumn and winter with some areas of the east now having 11 months of below average rainfall. With no significant rainfall currently forecast, it is likely that river and ground conditions will remain very dry over the next week.

All businesses with licences to take water from the environment have a responsibility to use water economically.

Record-breaking dryness

Groundwater levels in Fife and Angus were at their lowest April averages on record, with Newton of Falkland recording the lowest level for April in 28 years. Soil moisture deficits are continuing to increase, and soils are becoming drier than would be expected for the time of year.

In the River Dee in Aberdeenshire records going back 97 years show flows are at their second lowest this early in the year, only 1938 was drier. Typically, the lowest river flows in the Dee occur in July, August or September.

Some parts of Fife have now gone nearly four weeks without measurable rainfall. Across the east river flows are well below normal for this time of year and without significant rain conditions are unlikely to recover soon.

Water scarcity levels

Early Warning: Conditions are drying. No action required, but abstractors should start preparing.
Alert: Water levels are falling. SEPA advises voluntary reductions in non-essential water use for abstractors.
Moderate Scarcity: Environmental impact is clear. Action from abstractors is expected to protect rivers and the species that rely on them.
Significant Scarcity: Critical river levels. Restrictions on abstraction licences may be imposed.

Advice to abstractors

SEPA have been contacting abstractors directly to understand more about their water use and provide targeted advice. These conversations are showing that many have already put measures in place to use water more efficiently. As well as direct contact with individuals, all those with a licence in an area at Alert or Moderate Scarcity are receiving messages to remind them of their responsibilities.

Active consultation is ongoing with organisations across Scotland, including NFU Scotland, Fisheries Management Scotland, Golf Scotland, Scotch Whisky Association and Scottish Water to help share important information and ensure that advice and support is available.

If your business abstracts water from the environment, here’s what you need to do:

At Alert:

Check and maintain abstraction equipment
Review your water use plans
Reduce non-essential water use
Consider low-water irrigation techniques or alternative scheduling

At Moderate Scarcity:

Actively reduce water use, particularly during peak daylight hours
Coordinate with neighbours to optimise shared use
Consider alternative sources or reduced production if possible

Claire Tunaley, Senior Hydrologist – Water Resources Unit, SEPA said: “We’re seeing the kind of conditions we normally associate with late summer in some places – and it’s only May.

“Groundwater and river levels across the east are already hitting record lows. In Fife and Aberdeenshire, we’re seeing some of the driest conditions in living memory for this time of year. With parts of Scotland now at 11 months of below average rainfall it will take above-average rainfall over an extended period to recover to normal levels, especially for groundwater levels.

“Our message is clear: if you abstract water from our environment – whether you work in agriculture, energy, industry, distilling, food and drink or the leisure sector – you must take action now to help protect your operations and help safeguard Scotland’s rivers and wildlife in the weeks ahead.”

Everyone can use water more efficiently

Scottish Water is calling on people to use water as efficiently as possible in homes and gardens and help the utility protect resources and maintain normal supplies across the country.

The public water supply is resilient, and Scottish Water is continuously monitoring the levels of storage throughout the country to maintain supplies, but there has been an increase in water use by customers in the past weeks. The amount of water the company put into the network across Scotland has had to be increased from mid-April by 150 million litres per day.

Scottish Water is urging people to help save water by:

using water efficiently in the garden and outdoor spaces by using a watering can instead of a garden hose where possible and avoiding using sprinklers
taking shorter showers
turning the tap off when brushing teeth
using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded
using a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car.

Half of Scotland’s river catchments now at Alert for water scarcity

Scotland is experiencing growing signs of water scarcity, with half of all river catchments now at Alert status.

The latest water situation report, published yesterday (8^th May 2025) by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) reflects the persistent dry conditions and reduced river flows across many parts of the country.

The risk of water scarcity is categorised in four levels – Early Warning, Alert, Moderate Scarcity and Significant Scarcity.

The river catchments of the Nith, Dee (Galloway), Cree, Doon, Irvine and Ayr and the Clyde have been raised to Alert this week, bringing the total to 23. Scotland’s 23 other catchments are all at Early Warning leaving only the Inner Hebrides classed as normal.

SEPA began warning of a greater risk of water scarcity at the beginning of March, after below-average rainfall over winter following a particularly dry autumn.

Eilidh Johnston, SEPA’s Senior Manager in Water Industry and Rural Economy, said: “With no rainfall forecast across Scotland in the coming days we expect ground conditions to continue getting drier and river flows to decrease or remain low.

“We have been warning since the start of Spring that continued drier weather could disrupt agricultural activities, strain local water supplies and impact industries that depend on consistent water availability. Prolonged water scarcity can also impact local ecosystems, lower water quality and place additional pressure on native flora and fauna.

“Several industries across Scotland rely on natural water resources, whether it’s for food and drink production, hydropower or maintaining world famous golf courses. The next few weeks and months are a crucial time of year for water demand and those who take water from our environment must manage it wisely, minimising the need for restrictions to be imposed by SEPA.”

SEPA are working with key partners, including NFUS, to share messaging and offer practical advice to those affected. Direct communications are underway with abstractors in catchments at Alert level, reminding them of the need to plan ahead, use water efficiently, and consider voluntary reductions where possible.

The public, land managers and water users are also being asked to share images and observations of local rivers and burns to help build a fuller picture of conditions across the country.

Eilidh Johnston added: “We have monitoring points across Scotland, but local eyes and ears are invaluable and help us better understand how the information our gauges are providing matches up with conditions on the ground.

“Photos of dry riverbeds, low flows, or impacted habitats help us assess the scale of pressure in places we can’t reach every day.”

Include the name of the river or burn, the location (a grid reference is helpful but anything to point to a location is beneficial) and a description of the signs of water scarcity stress

Photographs can be submitted by email to lowflowimpacts@sepa.org.uk.

If you would like your image to be credited for use in communications about water scarcity, please state the credit information in your submission. Alternatively, let SEPA know if you do not want the photograph used for any other purpose than to assess water scarcity.

River catchments at Alert

Nith, Dee (Galloway), Cree, Doon, Irvine and Ayr, Clyde, Shin, Naver, Conon, Spey, Deveron, Ythan, Don (Aberdeenshire), Dee (Aberdeenshire), Esk, Firth of Tay, Firth of Forth, Almond, Tyne (Lothian), Tweed, Esk (Dumfriesshire), Annan and Thurso.

Wet winter doesn’t negate need for water scarcity plans

Nobody will be surprised to hear that Scotland experienced a very wet autumn and winter – but abstractors are being reminded they still need to plan ahead in case conditions change.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have published the first Water Situation Report of 2024, providing information on water stores in the ground, lochs and reservoirs.

Weather conditions over autumn and winter have a major influence on water resources and the risk of water scarcity in the following summer.

As reported last month, SEPA issued a record number of regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings to the public this winter.

A total of 720 messages were sent between 1st September 2023 and 16th February 2024. The previous record of 714 was set over autumn and winter 2015/16.

Areas along the east coast of Scotland saw higher than average rainfall throughout autumn and winter, with some parts seeing 170% of the winter average.

Elsewhere rainfall totals have been within the normal range, and natural water storage in lochs and groundwater is between normal and high for this time of year.

However, if the country experiences particularly dry weather over spring and summer it could still lead to water scarcity.

Water users are urged to keep an eye on the situation and plan ahead to manage water supplies sustainably.

Stephen McGuire, Senior Hydrology Specialist at SEPA, said:“It would be easy to look at the amount of rain Scotland has seen over the last few months and think that water scarcity isn’t an issue.

“The risk is currently lower than normal as a result, but the reality is we can’t rule out a repeat of the water shortages businesses have experienced in previous years – if we have drier than average conditions over the next few months things can change quite quickly.

“Water abstractors licensed by SEPA need to make sure they are prepared to deal with water scarcity, so I would encourage them to consider how to improve their business resilience and manage water wisely during prolonged dry conditions. We can help by providing advice and guidance on ways to reduce pressure on the water environment.

“Taking the right steps now will lower the likelihood of resources reaching a critical level again this summer and SEPA having to suspend licences to protect the water environment.”

Scotland’s Changing Climate

Scotland’s climate is changing and businesses are experiencing the impacts of more frequent extreme weather events like water scarcity.

The number of serious drought events is projected to increase from an average of one every 20 years, to one every two years in the near future.

In 2023 the first area reached Alert level at the end of May, and five areas (Rivers Annan and Nith in the southwest, the Black Isle, the Outer Hebrides and the Loch Maree area of the Highlands) had reached significant water scarcity by the end of June.

Significant impacts from water scarcity were apparent during 2022, particularly in the east of the country. Groundwater levels in the region were their lowest since records began in 2009 and there was below average rainfall in eight out of the twelve months.

SEPA had to take steps to protect the environment from the effects of prolonged dry weather and suspensions were imposed on 175 water abstraction licences in four catchment areas.

From May, SEPA will publish a weekly Water Situation Report looking at the latest conditions across Scotland.

Majority of Scotland now affected by water scarcity

Businesses extracting water urged to manage water wisely as the country continues to experience warm, dry weather.
The risk of water scarcity in the Loch Maree area has increased to Moderate Scarcity.
12 areas in the Northwest and Southern Central region have been raised to Alert.
Most of the rest of Scotland is now at Early Warning for Water Scarcity.
Businesses extracting water are being urged to put their water scarcity plans into action now to reduce pressure on the environment and preserve water resources.
Little rain is forecast for the next few weeks, and the water scarcity situation is expected to escalate quickly.
The public can help to monitor impact on the environment.

Below average rainfall for May has led to a deteriorating water scarcity situation across Scotland, with the Loch Maree area in the Highlands moving from Alert level to Moderate Scarcity.

The area has now reached the second highest risk level, as shown in the weekly report published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) on Thursday 1st June 2023.

In addition, the lack of rain and increasingly dry ground conditions means 12 areas in the Northwest and Southern Central region are now experiencing in Alert level.

Most of the rest of the country is now at Early Warning, with North Aberdeenshire the only area that remains at Normal Conditions for the time being.

The risk of water scarcity is categorised in four levels – Early Warning, Alert, Moderate Scarcity and Significant Scarcity.

Low rainfall and more dry weather to come

Scotland received only 44% of the long-term average rainfall across the country in May. With little rainfall forecast in the next week across Scotland, in the coming weeks the situation could escalate quickly, and extend across a much wider area.

The Loch Maree area in the Highlands has recorded prolonged extremely low river flows. The surrounding areas of the Northwest Highlands, extending down to Loch Ness, are also experiencing very low river levels so have moved to Alert level.

Areas in the Southern Central region that have increased to Alert level include the Clyde, parts of Dumfries and Galloway, and South Lanarkshire.

Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: “The water scarcity picture in Scotland is just one of the consequences of climate change the country faces, and its frequency and severity is only likely to increase in the future. This is a crucial time of year for water demand, but with no rain in the forecast we cannot rule out needing to impose restrictions over the summer.

“Abstractors must manage water wisely in the coming weeks and months and should already have contingency plans in place in case restrictions are needed to avoid long-term damage to the environment and fish populations

“All of us have a responsibility in managing our water environment, this summer and beyond. By using water efficiently, businesses can increase their resilience to the impacts of prolonged dry conditions and save money.”

Advice for abstractors to manage water wisely

Check SEPA’s website and regular water scarcity reports so you are aware of the water situation in your area.
Regularly check your abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away.
Where possible, reduce the volume and rate of your abstractions.
Have a contingency plan if suspensions are put in place:

Have you any stored water available? 

Can you switch to an alternative source, if available within your current authorisation? 

Can you temporarily switch to ground water? 

Work together with neighbours and stagger abstractions to make best use of available water.

Nathan Critchlow-Watton added: “We want to work with businesses to plan their water usage long-term so that we can preserve this vital resource as effectively as possible. Not only will that protect Scotland’s rivers and lochs, but it will minimise business risks as well.

“In the meantime, by taking the right steps now, abstractors can help make water supplies last as long as possible through this period.”

Further advice and support is available at www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

Help SEPA assess water scarcity stress

SEPA continually assess the impacts of prolonged periods of drier than average weather on our environment, but with many people out enjoying good weather there are opportunities for the public to help. If dry weather continues, as it is expected to, the areas affected will grow.

People can help by reporting dry private water supplies and rivers and burns in their area – especially if there are photographs that will help show the conditions. Distressed or dead fish or invertebrates, large numbers of dead plants on parts of the riverbed that are rarely exposed and a lot of exposed algae over 100s of metres, combined with very low flows are also important to know about.

This will help provide the best possible understanding of the impacts of dry weather.

Information can be sent to lowflowimpacts@sepa.org.uk

More information about what is helpful, as well as an explanation of how SEPA may use photographs is available on the agency’s website at Water scarcity in your area | Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)

SEPA: East of Scotland records tenth driest summer in 100 years

Scotland, a country famed worldwide for its natural water environment and wet weather, is facing the reality that water is not infinite and is a precious resource we must work together to preserve.

Climate change is forcing every corner of the nation to change its relationship with water as sea levels rise and we experience more flash floods and drought.

Water scarcity has already proven to be a significant impact in eastern parts of the country this year as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) reveals the extent of extreme, dry conditions experienced.

This summer in the east was the tenth driest in 100 years.
Eight out of the last 12 months saw below average rainfall in the region.
An extra month worth of average winter rainfall is needed in the east to make up the deficit from the past 12 months.
Groundwater levels in the east of Scotland reached their lowest since records began in 2009.

SEPA supports Scotland to adapt to a changing climate and helps steward our national water resource, including warning and informing businesses, communities and individuals during periods of water scarcity.

The risk of water scarcity was reported as early as April this year and what followed was an east-west split in Scotland throughout the summer, with the west experiencing mostly normal conditions while some areas in the east reached Significant water scarcity levels.

In August and September, SEPA took steps to protect the environment from the effects of prolonged dry weather by imposing suspensions on 175 water abstraction licences in four catchment areas.

This required support and compliance from businesses, predominantly within the agriculture sector, around the rivers Eden, Tyne, Tweed and Ythan. Abstractors were required to stop taking water from these areas or reduce volumes for a brief period to allow levels to recover.

Nathan Critchlow-Watton, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “This was the first year SEPA had to enforce abstraction licence suspensions to protect the sustainability of local water environments. Action like this underlines the severity of the dry conditions we experienced and reinforces the need for businesses to prepare for instances like this in the future.

“Water scarcity is just one indicator of climate change here. With more extreme weather and a projected decrease in summer rainfall in the years to come, many places could face pressure on water resources even if they have not experienced this before.

“It is important that Scotland is ready to deal with water scarcity now and in the future. SEPA is here to help with information to allow businesses to make informed decisions about reducing their reliance on water and to plan for and manage water scarcity events.”

As summer turns to autumn, water levels are improving in areas which have been under the most pressure. However, some northern and eastern catchments are still facing the risk of water scarcity and any businesses still abstracting from the environment are being urged to do so more efficiently. SEPA will continue to monitor and report conditions until all areas return to normal.

SEPA works with abstractors all year round to reduce pressure on the water environment. Abstractors should be taking steps now, in accordance with Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan, to plan ahead for a range of conditions they may experience next summer and in the years ahead.

This; includes monitoring their water usage and equipment to ensure they are operating at maximum efficiency and avoid leaks. Businesses are also encouraged to work together and planning and staggering their abstractions to minimise potential impacts on the local ware environments.

For more information on water scarcity and to view the latest report, visit:

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity

Water environment under stress as parts of Fife reach Significant Scarcity

Areas in mid and north Fife are now in a Significant Scarcity situation, with the Tweed catchment counting down to a similar position.
SEPA considers there is now clear evidence for additional steps to protect the sustainability of local water environments in line with Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan.
SEPA to confirm next steps and further engage with farmers next week.
Any actions to protect local water environments would be for the minimum time necessary and would be lifted as soon as possible.

Parts of Fife have now reached the highest level for water scarcity, as below average rainfall in the east of Scotland continues to cause stress on the environment.

The latest water scarcity report, published on Friday 5 August, reveals mid and north Fife are now at Significant Scarcity, with the River Tweed catchment in the Borders expected to reach the same level in the next few days.

In line with Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan, The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is engaging with businesses affected, most of which are in the agriculture sector, and plans to confirm next steps with farmers next week.

There is clear evidence further action is needed to protect the sustainability of local water environments as the combination of very low flows and high temperatures poses a real threat to fish, invertebrates and plants. While some parts of river ecology can recover quickly, others such as fish and plant populations can be seriously damaged longer-term or lost completely.

The current conditions are a consequence of drier weather this year, with only 4 of the last 12 months recording above average rainfall. The east of Scotland in particular experienced the driest January in more than 80 years and groundwater levels are the lowest they have been since records began in 2009.

David Harley, Interim Chief Officer Circular Economy for SEPA, said: “It is clear that a significant area of Scotland’s water environment is stressed from the prolonged dry weather this summer, and conditions are only going to get worse as this continues. Although there has been some recent rainfall in the east, it is not enough to recover the longer-term deficits.

“SEPA understands the impacts on businesses facing these difficult conditions and supports sectors reliant on water all year round on ways to become more resilient. However, it is vital we work together now to ensure the sustainability of local water environments for all who rely on them.

“As we’ve seen across Europe, water scarcity is becoming more common as a result of climate change. Water abstractors concerned about meeting licence conditions or wishing to discuss contingency measures are encouraged to contact SEPA by emailing waterscarcity@sepa.org.uk.”

For more information on water scarcity and to view the latest report, visit:

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity

SEPA reveals how businesses are taking action to avoid water scarcity this Water Saving Week

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is highlighting how businesses are playing their part to protect Scotland’s water environment as part of Water Saving Week 2022.

The annual event has been created by Waterwise to raise awareness of the issues around water use and takes place between Monday 23 May and Friday 27 May. Today, the final day of the campaign, focuses on water and the natural environment.

Scotland’s climate is changing, and communities are coming to terms with the impacts of more frequent extreme weather events like water scarcity. Climate change is likely to bring more uncertainty and cause problems in new areas.

Many rivers and watercourses require groundwater to supplement rainfall during the summer months. However, due to a drier than average winter, we are already seeing lower groundwater storage and this could result in water scarcity.

The latest water situation report, published this week, continues to show an east-west split in the risk of water scarcity:

Conditions in the west remain at Normal level and there has been some recovery in the south. However, without above-average rainfall in the next few months, the risk of impacts from water scarcity will increase and therefore most of this area stays at Early Warning.

In the east, despite some rainfall over the last week, this has not been enough for recovery and these areas also remain at Early Warning.

Groundwater levels at monitoring sites in the east and south-west remain low for the time of year, while the north and north-east are within normal range.

SEPA works with businesses all over Scotland to help manage the range of conditions they face and to avoid water scarcity issues where possible. This includes key sectors such as food and drink production, energy, farming and golf.

Royal Troon in Ayrshire, a world-famous golf club which has hosted several Open Championship tournaments, has demonstrated its commitment to protecting water resources and the environment by investing in more efficient equipment.

Club Secretary, Stephen Anthony, said: “A reliable clean water source is essential for care and maintenance of the course. The environment and use of water is one of our primary concerns and over watering can actually have a detrimental impact on the species of grass and the playability of the course.

“Over the past three years, the club has made a major investment in a state-of-the-art replacement irrigation system on all courses, from abstraction from a burn that discharges into the sea after passing through the course, to storage, and to delivery via the sprinkler heads.

“Unlike our previous system that was virtually all on or all off, this one enables us to target water to where it is needed. We could have one single sprinkler working and all others off. This allows us to use water more efficiently.”

Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: “Our aim is to work with businesses to do the right thing and help protect our water environment.

“Golf is just one industry that is fundamental to that, and it is great to see a club like Royal Troon making such an investment in their irrigation system. This not only ensures the best possible outcome for their own operations but eases pressure on nearby burns and rivers when they are at risk of drought.

“It is vitally important that Scotland is prepared to deal with water scarcity both now and in the future. SEPA is here to help plan and can advise on a series of straight forward steps for businesses to take such as monitoring water usage and equipment and avoiding any unnecessary leakage. We encourage them to work together and stagger their abstractions to minimise any potential impacts.”

Business can find out more information about water scarcity and how to prepare on our website.

SEPA issues first water scarcity warning of 2022 season

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has published its first water scarcity report of the year, with low levels being recorded in parts of Scotland.

The southern half of the country has reached early warning stage and businesses which abstract water should consider how they can be more efficient to protect both the environment and their own operations.

It comes after dry conditions across Scotland in March, with only half of the long-term average monthly rainfall. Groundwater levels at monitoring sites in Fife and Angus are particularly low. Normal amounts for this time of year would have benefited river flows, topped up reservoirs and provided moisture in the soils.

SEPA is responsible for the forecasting, monitoring, and reporting of the situation facing Scotland’s water resources and produces weekly water scarcity reports between May and September.

Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Nathan Critchlow-Watton, said: “Water is a resource that underpins key industries right across Scotland, including farming, food and drink production, energy and golf.

“We’re already seeing the effects of climate change. Last summer, the north and west of the country experienced its driest April-September in 160 years, while for the whole country it was the second driest on record for the same period. With a decrease in summer rainfall expected, we have to be prepared for increased pressure on Scotland’s water resources, perhaps in places that have never had to deal with water scarcity before.

“Water abstractors licensed by SEPA must have a plan to deal with water scarcity. They should monitor their water usage and equipment to ensure they are minimising use and operating at maximum efficiency.

“Our aim is to work with businesses to do the right thing and protect Scotland’s water environment. We can provide advice and guidance on steps to reduce pressure on rivers at risk of drought. Taking action now will reduce the likelihood of SEPA resorting to regulatory action.”

Businesses can take steps to protect water supplies by planning ahead, reducing volumes and irrigating at night where possible. Operators should also work together to stagger abstractions.