The decision by Moray Council to ban shooting on Council-owned land around Findhorn Bay LNR was one option available to them to address their concerns about the current situation.
This decision will not affect wildfowling that is legally undertaken on the foreshore on Findhorn Bay LNR 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 their 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. We encourage all wildfowlers to ensure that they act within the law, only shoot below the mean high water mark (unless they have the relevant landowner’s permission) and to follow BASC’s Wildfowling Code of Practice.
We would also encourage those wishing to shoot on Findhorn Bay LNR to respect the voluntary permit system.
Dr Colin Shedden 06/09/17
ENDS