This week, teams of volunteers from The Macallan and Edrington joined the Spey Catchment Initiative for two highly productive days of hands-on conservation work on the River Spey near Boat of Garten.
Over 20 volunteers took part across the two days, working tirelessly to remove hundreds of tree tubes from young riverside trees planted around five to seven years ago as part of our Revitalising the River Spey at Kinchurdy Farm project.
These trees are now well established, helping to stabilise riverbanks, shade the river, and provide vital habitat for wildlife. Removing the protective tubes once the trees have outgrown them is an important part of the restoration process — but also a time-consuming one.
Each year, employees at Edrington are given four days to volunteer with local organisations through their ‘Giving More’ programme, giving support organisations and charities like ours and many others across the North East of Scotland. The support of volunteers like these is invaluable, allowing us to maintain and care for restoration sites across the catchment.
“Without the help and enthusiasm of volunteer teams like those from The Macallan and Edrington, it would be difficult for us to keep up with essential maintenance work across the catchment.
Their contribution makes a real difference — helping us care for the River Spey and ensure the success of projects like this for years to come.” – Roger Knight, Chief Executive, Spey Catchment Initiative
Thank you to everyone who joined us for giving your time, energy, and good humour to help care for the River Spey.
Learn more about the Kinchurdy Farm restoration project: Revitalising the River Spey at Kinchurdy Farm
Learn more about positive work The Macallan is doing throughout the community, including their Giving More programme: www.themacallan.com/en/inside-the-macallan/sustainability/giving-back
(Images: The Macallan and Edrington volunteers helping remove tree tubes on the River Spey, October 2025.)
