SCOTLAND'S environment watchdog has said ground water levels have returned to normal across much of the country following weeks of warnings about scarcity in some regions.
However, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) is urging businesses not to be complacent about the situation as problems could easily arise again if another prolonged period of dry weather sets in.
The body’s latest water scarcity report, published on Friday, reveals most of the country has now recovered after warnings of significant scarcity were issued relating to areas in the Highlands and Dumfries and Galloway.
READ MORE: Petition to block DLC compound at Taymouth castle hits first milestone
Chris Dailly, head of geographic environmental performance at Sepa, said: “Last month was challenging for those businesses reliant on water from the environment. We very much welcome this turnaround in conditions and much-needed revival of river levels.
“It’s served as a reminder of the vital role water plays in many industries in Scotland and the crucial part businesses play in ensuring the sustainability of local water environments.
“As climate change exacerbates water scarcity, it’s imperative that water abstractors understand the impact of their usage and step up their efforts to manage this now and longer-term.”
READ MORE: Crathes Castle's iconic gardens to reopen following revamp
Further rain is forecast across the southern half of Scotland this weekend, which Sepa said may lead to continued recovery in some areas.
However, the body is aware river flows and ground conditions in the north-east, Fife and East Lothian areas have seen less recovery and is advising local abstractors to only use water from burns and rivers when required.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here