A local personal watercraft enthusiast is spearheading a community-wide effort to cleanse the River Tay, following recent heavy rainfall that exposed vulnerabilities in the area’s pollution control infrastructure. This initiative aims not only to restore the river’s pristine condition but also to highlight the positive role responsible recreational users can play in environmental stewardship.
The impetus for the clean-up arose after Sunday observations revealed that oil catcher drain booms near North Muirton had become submerged. These critical barriers, designed to intercept debris and pollutants, were rendered ineffective due to saturation, allowing a surge of undesirable materials, including oil and rubbish, to enter the river. This incident is believed to be a direct consequence of the flash flooding that impacted Perth on July 21, when an extraordinary amount of rain fell in just one hour. Local Watercraft Users Leading the Charge
The individual behind this clean-up drive, a familiar face on the Tay alongside his canine companion, is determined to challenge prevailing misconceptions about personal watercraft. He asserts that modern jet skis are sophisticated vessels, equipped with catalytic converters, and contribute negligibly to water pollution. Moreover, records from the harbour master reportedly indicate a fifteen-year period without any incidents involving these craft, underscoring the adherence of regular users to a strict code of conduct.
This is not the first time this dedicated river advocate has stepped up for the Tay. Last year, he was instrumental in rescuing a woman from the river. Furthermore, in 2024, he played a crucial role in bringing attention to a sewage leak near Perth’s new ‘super sewer’ on Tay Street. His prompt reporting led Scottish Water to acknowledge a fault in their upgrade pumps and commit to a thorough clean-up operation, demonstrating the significant impact vigilant local users can have on environmental protection. A Call for Collective Action
In response to the recent pollution and the ongoing public discourse surrounding river usage, a major clean-up event has been organised for Sunday, August 2nd. Volunteers are invited to gather at the Tay Street slipway at 9:30 AM. The ambitious plan includes tidying the river banks and extending efforts to Stanners Island and Moncreiffe Island, key areas impacted by the influx of debris.
This concerted effort represents a powerful statement that environmental responsibility transcends recreational preferences. It underscores the shared commitment within the Perth and Kinross community to protect the River Tay, a vital artery of the region. The clean-up is a tangible demonstration that all stakeholders, including personal watercraft users, can and should contribute to preserving this precious natural asset for the benefit of all who live, work, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Perthshire.
The body responsible for the maintenance and effectiveness of the storm drain booms, Scottish Water, has been approached for comment regarding the recent issues and their plans for remedial action and future prevention. The community eagerly awaits their response and continued collaboration to safeguard the river’s ecological health.
The impetus for the clean-up arose after Sunday observations revealed that oil catcher drain booms near North Muirton had become submerged. These critical barriers, designed to intercept debris and pollutants, were rendered ineffective due to saturation, allowing a surge of undesirable materials, including oil and rubbish, to enter the river. This incident is believed to be a direct consequence of the flash flooding that impacted Perth on July 21, when an extraordinary amount of rain fell in just one hour. Local Watercraft Users Leading the Charge
The individual behind this clean-up drive, a familiar face on the Tay alongside his canine companion, is determined to challenge prevailing misconceptions about personal watercraft. He asserts that modern jet skis are sophisticated vessels, equipped with catalytic converters, and contribute negligibly to water pollution. Moreover, records from the harbour master reportedly indicate a fifteen-year period without any incidents involving these craft, underscoring the adherence of regular users to a strict code of conduct.
This is not the first time this dedicated river advocate has stepped up for the Tay. Last year, he was instrumental in rescuing a woman from the river. Furthermore, in 2024, he played a crucial role in bringing attention to a sewage leak near Perth’s new ‘super sewer’ on Tay Street. His prompt reporting led Scottish Water to acknowledge a fault in their upgrade pumps and commit to a thorough clean-up operation, demonstrating the significant impact vigilant local users can have on environmental protection. A Call for Collective Action
In response to the recent pollution and the ongoing public discourse surrounding river usage, a major clean-up event has been organised for Sunday, August 2nd. Volunteers are invited to gather at the Tay Street slipway at 9:30 AM. The ambitious plan includes tidying the river banks and extending efforts to Stanners Island and Moncreiffe Island, key areas impacted by the influx of debris.
This concerted effort represents a powerful statement that environmental responsibility transcends recreational preferences. It underscores the shared commitment within the Perth and Kinross community to protect the River Tay, a vital artery of the region. The clean-up is a tangible demonstration that all stakeholders, including personal watercraft users, can and should contribute to preserving this precious natural asset for the benefit of all who live, work, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Perthshire.
The body responsible for the maintenance and effectiveness of the storm drain booms, Scottish Water, has been approached for comment regarding the recent issues and their plans for remedial action and future prevention. The community eagerly awaits their response and continued collaboration to safeguard the river’s ecological health.