A WARNING has been given about water scarcity in Dumfriesshire.
And the River Esk, above, has been flagged up with a moderate alert for its water levels.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is monitoring river and water levels nationwide and as little rain is forecast for the next few weeks, the water scarcity situation is expected to escalate quickly.
They are calling on businesses which extract water to put their water scarcity plans into action now to reduce pressure on the environment and preserve water resources.
Abstractors and irrigators are advised to manage water wisely to minimise the need for licence restrictions, and regularly check equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and not leaking. Where possible, the volume and rate of abstractions should be reduced.
Anyone concerned about meeting licence conditions or wishing to discuss contingency measures are encouraged to contact SEPA by emailing [email protected].
For more information on water scarcity and to view the latest report, visit www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.
* The River Esk at Longtown is pictured
