Dingwall Field Club ventures up River Conon to Loch Luichart
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THE group's first walk of the New Year was cancelled – that was the day of the snow!
Despite a dubious forecast, 13 members set off up the River Conon towards Loch Luichart. The first walk was across the dam where walkers admired the views up the loch in the sunshine.
On the far side of the dam a birch tree had been blown down and had peeled its shallow roots and moss cleanly off its rocky home. The dam had been completed in 1957 and all the details of size and depth were recorded on a plaque.
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Walkers returned to Luichart Power Station and crossed the bridge over the river for a walk up the Scatwell valley as far as Little Scatwell house – interesting design. It was a bit early for flowers but mallard and widgeon were happy on the pools in the Scatwell fields. Red kites were flying overhead and we were pleased to see a buzzard – not as numerous as they once were. A shower of rain stopped this walk and the group returned to the cars to visit the next stop – Contin Church.
The group had a welcome warming lunch in the cars and then looked at the churchyard with its very interesting gravestones, including that of William Laidlaw – amanuensis to Sir Walter Scott. Nowadays that would be his PA! The group walked right round the island noticing how high the river – the Black Water now – had been with driftwood caught high in the trees. At the east side of the island the river was once used to power a sawmill until mid-20th century. When walkers reached the back of the churchyard there was a lovely spread of snowdrops – a sure sign that spring is on its way. In spite of the cold wind it was an enjoyable outing, some not having been in the area before.
Check the website or phone 01349 864661 for more details about the club.
