01 April signals a new regime on Loch Ken, with the launch of the new Boat Registration & Ranger Service.
The new Boat Registration & Ranger Service will be run by the Loch Ken Advisory Management Committee (LKAMC), an established not-for-profit organisation that brings together the range of stakeholders around the Loch including Landowners, Marinas, Community Groups, Anglers and other user groups.
Loch Ken, running from Crossmichael to New Galloway in Dumfries & Galloway is the largest body of freshwater in Southern Scotland and is an excellent resource for a host of different user groups, including boats, anglers and a wide range of recreational activities.
The Boat Registration Scheme sets out a code of conduct for boat users of the Loch for the benefit of all and supports the ranger service, now led by Martin Smee, on behalf of the LKAMC. Once registered, boats can access the Loch through a number of entry points including the public slipway near Parton. To register your boat, visit Martin at the Loch Ken Marina, a couple of miles north of Parton on the A713.
Martin Smee, the new Loch Ken Ranger on behalf of the Loch Ken Advisory Management Committee, said:
“Loch Ken is an amazing resource for boating and a range of other activities, attracting residents and visitors from far afield. The Boat Registration process is an opportunity to introduce the rules of the loch and benefits all users. If you want to put a boat onto the loch, I look forward to processing your registration.”
Mungo Bryson, Interim Chair of the LKAMC, said:
“Loch Ken offers a variety of activities and scenery and truly is one of the jewels of Southern Scotland. The Boat Registration Scheme and Ranger Service has until now been provided by Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Environment Team. Following the cessation of this service the Loch Ken Advisory Management Committee has stepped up to ensure the boat registration process continues. The LKAMC see the benefit to having a boat registration process and ranger service and we look forward to welcoming any potential users of the loch.”
