Colmonell

Many thanks to The Knockdolian Estate Fishings for facilitating this camera's location and to The Ayrshire Rivers Trust for capitally funding its installation. The Knockdolian Estate offers accommodation with access to salmon and sea trout fishing along its own stretch of the River Stinchar. Originating in the Carrick Forest to the north of the Galloway Forest Park, the River Stinchar shares its headwaters with the nearby River Girvan, only one kilometer away. Spanning a main drainage course of 54km, the river initially flows north but predominantly takes a southwest direction, passing through Barr, Pinwherry, and Colmonell before finally reaching the sea at Ballantrae. With a catchment area of 253 sq km, the River Stinchar includes significant tributaries such as the Muck Water, the River Duisk, and the Water of Tig. Over the past two decades, the upper reaches of most tributaries have seen rapid forestry development. The Stinchar catchment primarily engages in forestry and agriculture as its main land uses, with a low human population density and minimal heavy industry presence.The River Stinchar holds historical significance as poet Robert Burns fished in its waters. Despite being captivated by its beauty, he struggled to find words that rhymed with its name. The conservation village of Colmonell has achieved recognition as a Biosphere Community, the seventh to receive such designation within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and the second in South Ayrshire.In 2012, Galloway and Southern Ayrshire were designated a 'UNESCO Biosphere' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation in recognition of their unique and globally significant attributes. The organization's focus encompasses conservation, education, sustainable development, and climate resilience, with an emphasis on fostering multi-sector collaborations to support more sustainable communities.The Biosphere Communities scheme encourages residents to explore and appreciate the distinctive aspects of their localities, including heritage and cultural identity that instills community pride. As part of this initiative, the Biosphere conducts Sense of Place workshops where residents share local legends, favorite places, and insights on what sets their village or town apart. Following Colmonell's workshop, residents contributed text and photographs for a dedicated webpage on Colmonell, which is now live on gsabiosphere.org.uk. Collectively, the village has become a member of the Biosphere's Proud Supporter scheme, demonstrating their commitment to taking positive action for the betterment of people and the planet. Additionally, local businesses in Colmonell can benefit from their association with Scotland's UNESCO Trail, an international marketing campaign that guides visitors through Scotland's UNESCO sites while prioritizing slow and sustainable tourism. Biosphere Communities are promoted along the trail as places where visitors can enjoy an authentic rural experience and immerse themselves in 'Biosphere life'.As the relationship between the village and the Biosphere strengthens, residents of Colmonell can rely on 'Team GSAB' for assistance in developing community initiatives and promoting special events. Additionally, a Farson streaming webcam is strategically positioned to monitor river levels for  the fishermen.