Angus Council's work with the River South Esk Catchment Partnership on environmental projects to protect native habitats and wildlife has won them the UK River Prize 2023. The UK River Prize is run by the River Restoration Centre (RRC). The Rottal Burn Restoration Project has been a dedicated local partnership working for over a decade to restore the tributary of the River South Esk at Glen Clova to its natural state and increase its biodiversity potential.
The Rottal Burn was channeled in the 1800s in an attempt to reduce flooding and improve the surrounding farmland. But the historic intervention destroyed the area for fish and the burn's status as a vital spawning ground for the South Esk was lost.
The project focused on the 800m section of the burn that feeds into the South River Esk. The project faced some challenges, the site is remote and can be subject to adverse weather conditions, there were also overhead services on the site. Despite this, the partners have worked in harmony for over 10 years to achieve success.
Riparian planting and wetland improvements have been achieved through an abundance of natural regeneration of trees and diverse flora. It's a major coup for the estate at Glen Clove. Salmon and trout populations have been supported by the project, and the project has also enhanced local wetland habitats, improving habitat for a wide range of upland bird species.
The restoration of the Rottal Burn is an excellent example of what can be achieved when local partners, experts, scientists and landowners come together for the benefit of our local environment, community and biodiversity. Improving the burn will enhance the beauty of Glen Clova and provide multiple benefits that will be felt locally and contribute to global outcomes. As well as improving water quality, river biodiversity and fish populations, the project has shown the wider community in the area what can be achieved by working together.