Exciting Year Ahead for Scotland’s Only Natural Lake; But Pollution Concerns Linger
Local MP Alyn Smith was delighted to meet keen anglers and community members at the Lake of Menteith, to mark the Opening Day of the new fishing season.
The Lake of Menteith is Scotland’s only natural lake and is internationally renowned for the quality of trout fishing. The main venue for the National Trout Fly Fishing Championships, the 700 acre water is stocked with top quality rainbow and brown trout reared on site by Lake of Menteith Fisheries. The company maintains a fleet of boats for fishing in the stunning landscape, used by local people and visitors alike to explore what the Lake has to offer – attracting around 12,000 anglers annually.
The event comes on the back of growing community concerns over the Lake’s biodiversity and pollution levels, following increased logging activities in the vicinity. Community stakeholders have sounded the alarm over rising silt levels and land runoff, and have asked SEPA to ensure environmental standards are protected to maintain a healthy environment for fish stocks.
Stirling MP Alyn Smith said:
‘The Lake of Menteith has a special place in Stirling’s history and tourism offering – and it’s great to see the hard work of Quint and the team pay off with another fantastic season lined up. Stirling has so much to offer our local residents and visitors, especially in our rural communities.
‘I do share concerns over the potential impact of pollution on the Lake and fishing operations. The Lake has a delicately balanced ecosystem, and I trust SEPA and other stakeholders will act together to ensure pollution levels do not affect fishing stocks or wildlife going forward.’
Quint Glen, Manager of Lake of Menteith Fisheries said:
‘I was very pleased to welcome Alyn along to our Opening Day, and I’m heartened he’s taking our pollution concerns seriously. The Lake is a true gem in the heart of Scotland, and really is a precious place for local people and visitors to enjoy. Our operations have moved from strength to strength, with our boat fleet used by around 12,000 anglers annually – a huge boost to local tourism and Stirling’s economy. We are particularly proud of the sustainability of our pond reared rainbow trout which are fed on a diet which contains no wild caught fish. Algal blooms and other negative externalities from potential pollution remain at the forefront of our minds, and we hope to work with Alyn, SEPA and others to keep our Lake clean, healthy and welcoming.’
Notes:
Pictured is Alyn Smith MP at the Lake of Menteith with Quint Glen, Manager of Lake of Menteith Fisheries.
