Award success for salmon trust

A GALLOWAY salmon hatchery has won a prestigious award for its conservation efforts.

The River Cree Hatchery and Habitat Trust (RCHHT) recently won the inaugural Orri Award from the North Atlantic Salmon Fund, which recognises community initiatives combining sound conservation practices and community engagement for the survival of the Atlantic Salmon, which is now classified as an endangered species.

Founded in 2011 by Jamie Hyslop and members of Newton Stewart and District Angling Association, the trust has also been awarded £10,000 to continued its river restoration projects, habitat improvement and education work in south-west Scotland. The grant will improve the quality and survivability of salmon fry used to supplement the River Cree’s wild population.

Commenting on the trust’s success, a spokesperson said: “It’s heartening to see growing recognition of community-led action to restore endangered wild salmon rivers.

“These projects will now move towards their next phase — crowdfunding and delivery in 2026 — restoring salmon habitat, engaging local communities, and helping wild North Atlantic salmon thrive once more.”