Water Releases

2025 FRESHET SCHEDULE

SEPA have control over freshet releases on larger scale hydro schemes in Scotland. It is important to note that not every river scheme has a scheduled freshet. Paddle Scotland liaises with SEPA and where possible has secured times for releases to suit paddlers and events in those areas. 


The format is different in 2025 and is designed to be more accessible. It’s an OpenDocument Spreadsheet which is usable across different platforms. The filtering options allow anyone to focus on rivers of interest, and the data can be downloaded for your own particular use. Freshet dates are on the “Release­_Frequency” tab.


The dates have been uploaded into a calendar view (below) by Johnathan Riddell of the Scottish WW Guide / Andy Jackson Fund for Access.


For general information on water releases visit the SEPA website.

View the freshets document in full here.

Dam Release Calendar
Falls of Lora

Not a water release, but a natural tidal wonder.


The falls of Lora are situated six miles North East of Oban on the West Coast of Scotland. The falls are generated when the tide level in the Firth of Lorn drops below the level of the water in Loch Etive. On the Ebb tide, the seawater in Loch Etive pours out through the narrows which are themselves spanned by the spectacular and historic Connel Bridge. The currents and waves produced by the flood tide are also well worth seeing and paddling.


The falls provide excitement for kayakers and divers as well as a stunning sight for tourists and photographers.


Visit the Falls of Lora website for more information on the falls and when they are running.