Dornoch Wetlands
The Dornoch Wetland is a proposed project to create a new wetland area, using small ‘leaky dams’ to slow the flow of water into the Dornoch Burn.
The idea is to hold back some water during heavy rain and release it more gradually, helping to reduce flooding while also keeping more water in the burn during dry spells.
Please see below for the FAQs, but if you have any further comments or questions, please email us at: dornochareacommunitycouncil@hotmail.co.uk
What effect will a wetland area have on the flow of the Burn?
A wetland is designed to moderate, not simply reduce, the flow of water. In times of high rainfall, the wetland will fill and retain an amount of water, moderating the risk of flooding downstream. When there are drought conditions, a steady release of water from the wetland will help to maintain water levels in the burn.
Will the burn still flood or dry up?
No-one can predict with certainty what effect the weather will have but the scheme is designed to regulate, to some extent, the flow of water, making drying up or flooding less likely.
Will the outfall of the Burn still silt up?
Yes - and it will still need occasional dredging. But this should be needed less often, because most of the silt is carried down by floodwater. Less flooding, less silt.
How will this small wetland affect the environment?
It will support rare wildlife like otters, breeding waders, carnivorous plants, rare insects like dragonflies and populations of migrating waterbirds, while acting as an essential natural carbon store. If successful, it could be the basis for a nature reserve, making a useful resource for learning and an attraction for visitors.
Will local properties be affected?
The nearest local houses are at Camore. It is not expected that the wetland will have any adverse effect on local properties there but if hydrologists identify any potential problems, effective landscaping measures will be put in place.
Will the wetland be visible from the roads?
No. There are no adjoining roads, so the site will only be publicly accessible on foot. Other decisions about access will be decided by the landowner.
Can the wetland area be modified if there are problems?
Yes. One benefit of ‘leaky dams’ is that they are quite easily removed, added to or repositioned as required.
Are there plans to introduce beavers?
Not at present. First, we have to take at least a couple of years to prove the effectiveness of the project, using leaky dams. If they are effective they will require some maintenance - probably annually. A small colony of Eurasian Beavers would do the job for us, at no cost and probably more effectively. ‘The Beaver Trust’ and ‘Rewilding Britain’ have identified the site as being potentially ideally suitable for beavers but local consultation, discussion and agreement would be required before that could happen.
Why is the Community Council involved?
Our remit is to act for the benefit of our local people and to represent their majority views, wishes and concerns to The Highland Council and The Scottish Government. This project was devised after much discussion in Council and the advice sought from relevant public agencies, in order to ameliorate what is seen as a continuing problem arising from the flooding of the Dornoch Burn.
If you have any other questions about the wetland project, please send us an email to the above address. We’ll read every one and try to give you an answer as quickly as possible.
