An important aspect of the work of GRT is the provision of expertise and advice on a wide variety of fishery related topics. This includes planning applications, forestry design plans and Environmental Statements and Impact Assessments. GRT may charge for providing these services.
GRT also provides focused fishery advice. GRT aims to encourage the sustainable development of freshwater fishing (stillwater and running) across the region.
The creation of new fisheries through either constructing new ponds or opening up inaccessible areas has taken place at a number of locations. GRT is able to assist in the design of new ponds, suitable fish species for introduction and help with the necessary licence applications.
Addressing problems on established fisheries is also undertaken. Key problems where best practice guidance is provided includes control of problem aquatic plants, reducing predation problems and management of bank sides to allow fishing whilst protecting their biodiversity value.
Advice is also provided to ensure fisheries are run in a sustainable manner for the long term. This may include limiting angling pressure / fishing methods or promoting catch and release. GRT plays an important role providing expert advice to companies when planning and completing construction works in or close to water courses.
In spring 2026, Galloway Rivers Trust undertook 22.5 hectares of peatland restoration around Loch Moan in Dumfries and Galloway. Loch Moan is the source of the River Cree, which is an important river in Galloway for its freshwater fish populations including the very rare Sparling.
The River Luce starts in the hills of southern Ayrshire and makes it way down through New Luce and Glenluce before joining the Solway Firth. Throughout its length it acts as a home to a large variety of aquatic species such as salmon and trout, as well as many invertebrate species.
Galloway River Trust has secured funding from the European Open Rivers Programme for work to remove the Broom Caul. As part of our work to restore the river habitats of the River Annan catchment, the removal of this caul, or weir, has been identified as a priority action.
