Thanks to North Lanarkshire Council, Dumbreck & Garrell Project Team for inviting our Project Manager Conor McDermott along to take part in the documentary they are making about the award winning Garrell Burn Project.
This was Conor’s first project when he joined George Leslie as a Site Agent. When work was completed in April 2022 re-naturalising of the Garrell River and creating new paths to conserve threatened habitats and species. New bridges were installed, invasive weeds treated and removed, the original burn channel has been filled in, with two fish passes also installed.
Shortly after opening the new channel they were happy to report that young salmon were recorded in Kilsyth for the first time in over 100 years.
Dr Willie Yeomans, Catchment Manager, Clyde River Foundation said “The Clyde River Foundation has been monitoring the fish communities in the Garrell Burn since 2002. This is the first occurrence of young-of-the-year salmon in Kilsyth in living memory, and it was made possible by investing in the fish passes.”
Mairi McAllan MSP said: “Not only has this innovative project transformed river and wetland habitats in over 70 hectares of the nature reserve – it has also brought opportunities for communities, especially the nearby school, to become connected and inspired by the thriving nature on their doorstep.”
Conor said: “The Engineering behind the reshaping of the Garrell Burn was accomplished by utilising 3D modelling software and GPS tracked machinery to create its meandering shape. Restoring around 600 metres of the burn, it will now be able to accommodate a greater variety of wildlife, provide a more attractive fish habitat and now allows the Garrell Burn to naturally flood into the wetland zone to help recharge the marsh with water.”
Thank you to the Dumbreck & Garrell Project Team who manage the Community Greenspaces @ NLC for the invite. We can’t wait to see the end result!
