Fowling restrictions now in place on Findhorn Bay

BASC has reassured wildfowlers on Findhorn Bay, near Forres in Moray, that they can continue to shoot on the foreshore, after Moray Council introduced a voluntary permit scheme.

Following concern over the numbers of wildfowlers visiting Findhorn Bay, and a lengthy period of negotiation, a new permit system has been introduced restricting when shooting can take place and the number of people who can shoot at any one time.

Colin Shedden, BASC Scottish director, commented: “This decision will not affect wildfowling that is legally undertaken on the foreshore on Findhorn Bay Local Nature Reserve or anywhere else in Scotland. Wildfowling, undertaken under the public right to recreation on the Scottish foreshore, can only be exercised below the mean high-water mark of an ordinary spring tide. Moray Council’s decision clearly states that the restriction only applies to its land above the high-water mark.

“This decision will therefore only affect those who choose to shoot on council-owned land not covered by the public right to recreation,” he explained. SHOOTING TIMES & COUNTRY MAGAZINE • 5

Findhorn Bay is a popular location for wildfowlers