WATER RELEASES

The 2026 SSE freshet schedule is available for download here (Open Document Format, 26 kB) and on the SEPA website.


It features information on conditions and release frequency for locations including: 

  • River Lyon (Stronuich Dam)
  • Loch Awe (at Barrage)
  • River Cassley (Duchally) and River Brora (Dalnessie)
  • River Conon (Luichart), River Meig (Meig), River Orrin (Orrin), Black water (Vaich Dam or Glascarnoch Dam)
  • River Farrar (Beannachran)
  • River Moriston (Cluanie), River Moriston (Dundreggan), River Garry (Invergarry)
  • River Garry (Perthshire, at Garry Intake), River Tummel (Clunie), River Tummel (Dunalastair), River Errochty (Errochty Dam), and Allt Glas Choire (at intake) 
  • River Shira 
  • Kingairloch, Loch Uisge Dam 


Learn more about water levels from SEPA and check levels.


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 changed last year (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.


If you require an alternative format please email equalities@sepa.org.uk.


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.

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.