A study into the economic impact of water-based recreation on the River Spey has concluded that angling in the Moray, Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise area generates £11.8m in revenue and supports 367 jobs. The report also shows that recreational water sports adds a further £1.7m to the local economy and supports 42 jobs.

The study was commissioned by the Spey Catchment Steering Group as part of the River Spey Catchment Management Project.

The survey was carried out between April and October 2003 by contractors from Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of Edinburgh and is the most complete study of its kind ever to have been undertaken. It covered the full range of water related activities, and involved interviews with anglers and paddlers, mail drop responses and detailed questionnaires.

River Spey project officer for the Catchment Steering Group, Pete Moore of Scottish Natural Heritage, said: "As well as putting a cash value on the financial contribution these sectors make, the report underlines the need for the Spey catchment to be managed in an integrated and sustainable way."

Dr. James Butler, Director of the Spey Fishery Board was delighted with the survey's findings: 'The survey has demonstrated that tourism based on salmon and sea trout fishing is a vital part of the local economy, with each rod-caught fish bringing £1,700 into Strathspey. It is imperative that that the Catchment Management Plan succeeds in conserving and enhancing salmon stocks and the rod fishery, for the benefit of the area for future generations.'

For more information or a copy of the report, contact Pete Moore, River Spey Project Officer on 01479 810477 or email  riverspey@snh.gov.uk .

To view the report click here.