The River Doon District Salmon Fishery Board and Police Scotland have combined forces in a new initiative as illegal salmon poaching and other wildlife crime rises.

The River Doon, which runs through South Ayrshire, is home to wild Atlantic Salmon, as well as rare Freshwater Mussel, bird species such as Kingfishers and Dippers, and a reviving Otter population.

In recent years the anglers on the Doon have made a significant contribution to securing future stocks of wild salmon by releasing over 95 per cent of all reported rod-caught salmon back to the river to continue their journey to the spawning grounds.

Ayr Advertiser: River DoonRiver Doon (Image: River Doon)

However, unfortunately illegal poaching continues to pose a threat to these vulnerable salmon stocks.

The River Doon River Watch Scheme aims to enable not just anglers, but all who care about preserving the Salmon for future generations, a way to report any suspicious activity.

Iain K Clark, Clerk to the River Doon DSFB said: “As part of its role in managing the protection, enhancement and conservation of Atlantic Salmon, the Board have appointed a River Patrol Coordinator to patrol the River Doon and its tributaries, and a River Watch Coordinator, who will coordinate all reports received through a new confidential 24 hour hotline number and dedicated e-mail address established by the Board.

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"Any suspicious activity reported will be shared with Police Scotland, who will respond.

"The Board hopes that all communities in the Doon Valley will support this new initiative.”

As Wildlife Crime Officer, PC Steven Prendergast, emphasises, combatting wildlife crime is a key priority for Police Scotland.

If you see any suspicious activity then please call 07469 819 345, or email RiverDoon.RiverWatch@gmail.com.