Overview of Pitlochry Fish Ladder

Associated with the dam on Loch Faskally at Pitlochry, part of the Tummel Hydro-Electric Power Scheme, the Pitlochry Fish Ladder was completed in 1951 in response to a 1943 Act of Parliament which laid a duty on the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board to avoid damaging the stocks of fish on rivers and in lochs used as part of its power schemes. Comprising thirty-four pools linked by underwater pipes and strung out along a length of 310m (339 yards), the fish ladder was built alongside Pitlochry Power Station to allow breeding salmon to swim around the dam from the River Tummel up into Loch Faskally and on to their spawning grounds. Each pool is 50cm (1.6 feet) higher than the last and the fish are attracted into the system by a continuous water discharge from the reservoir. The fish are prevented from entering the power station intake or outflow by underwater mesh screens. Three larger pools allow the fish to rest during the arduous ascent and one of these has a glass wall providing an observation chamber for visitors to watch the fish, together with a small exhibition, fish counter and CCTV camera to improve the view.

Along with the dam and power station, the fish ladder is now A-listed.