Scottish Water wants Carron Valley visitors to stop being 'Reservoir Thugs'

In recent weeks acts of anti-social behaviour have been reported at various reservoirs around the country with incidents of vandalism to property, damage to trees and fires being lit and left unattended have all been recorded.

According to Scottish Water, littering has also been an increasing issue with both food and drink containers and wrapping being left, tents discarded as well as human waste.

Safety is also a key factor with reports in several places of individuals being in the water and also jumping and diving from water towers which are part of the working infrastructure of Scottish Water reservoirs, which include Carron Valley outside Denny.

Scottish Water is working with a number of partners to encourage people to leave no trace when they visit beauty spots, including public reservoirs and surrounding land.

Liaison is taking place with the police in hot spots where anti-social behaviour is most prevalent.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water chief operating officer, said: “We are seeing a significant increase in the number of people visiting reservoirs and I understand the desire to get out and about especially with the restrictions which have been in place.

“However, the behaviour we have seen from a sizeable minority of people is unacceptable. Property including fencing has been vandalised, trees cut down for fires, fires set and left to burn uncontrolled, human waste left lying and litter discarded without any consideration for others or the environment.

“We have had incidents of people being in the water and jumping from reservoir towers. There are many hidden dangers in reservoirs as they are working assets and vital to our water supply network.

“Add to that, the fact that cold water shock could easily result in someone getting into real difficulty. My message is clear and simple: you’re welcome to visit but please behave appropriately.

“Leave no trace by taking your litter or other items away and disposing of them properly and respect the environment.”

Any form of damage to the environment is in breach of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, developed by Scottish Natural Heritage, which offers guidance on the rights and responsibilities of the public and land managers such as Scottish Water.

The code’s key principles include respecting the interests of other people, caring for the environment and taking responsibility for your own actions.