Electro-fishing surveys have shown that the River Farigaig and associated tributaries have a healthy trout population but a very limited number of juvenile salmon.

A full habitat survey of the burn is currently being undertaken but a number of key issues have already been identified that require remedial action if the Farigaig is to reach its productive potential. Firstly, a bridge apron a short distance upstream from the confluence with Loch Ness is likely to make access difficult for both salmon and trout migrating upstream via Loch Ness.

The apron is currently ‘perching’ i.e. is a significant distance above the river bed immediately downstream. Over time this is likely to get worse due the constant action of water removing material from the river bed. N&BFT, in conjunction with SEPAs restoration fund, have commissioned an engineering assessment from a fish passage specialist. It is hoped that the problems caused by the bridge apron can be overcome. In addition, N&BFT have liaised with staff at Forestry Commission Scotland in respect of the encroachment of forestry plantations in some parts of the burn. It is envisaged that these will be removed in the near future as many of the coupes in the area are scheduled for harvesting and replacement by native trees.

Encroachment by non-native trees can potentially have a number of negative effects. Firstly, over-shading by the trees leads to a loss of light penetration into the stream which can reduce production of algae and in turn lower the number of invertebrates present – many of which are a key food source of fish. Secondly, non-native trees tend to have little or no natural vegetation beneath them. This ‘bare earth’ is more prone to erosion with inputs of silt etc more likely to increase as a result.

Overall, relatively simple measures should see an improvement in the health of the fish stocks in the Farigaig system. N&BFT involvement in this project has been supported by financial contributions from the Scottish Government, RAFTS and SEPAs Restoration Fund.