Westwater Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Westwater Reservoir |
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Westwater Reservoir dam
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 Westwater Reservoir
Location in Scottish Borders
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| Location | Pentland Hills, Scottish Borders |
| Coordinates | 55°45′23″N 3°24′29″W / 55.75639°N 3.40806°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | Scotland |
| Surface elevation | 320 m (1,050 ft) |
| Official name: Westwater | |
| Designated: | 27 November 1995 |
| Reference #: | 780 |
Westwater Reservoir is a human-made lake in the Pentland Hills, Scottish Borders, Scotland. It's about 3 kilometers (2 miles) west of West Linton and 26 kilometers (16 miles) southwest of Edinburgh. This reservoir provides drinking water for Edinburgh and the surrounding areas. It sits 320 meters (1,050 feet) above sea level. Westwater Reservoir is also a very special place for wild birds. Because of its importance, it is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Ramsar site.
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About Westwater Reservoir
Westwater Reservoir was finished in 1969. It was created by building an earth dam across the West Water. This river is a small branch of the Lyne Water, which then flows into the River Tweed. The reservoir covers an area of about 36.8 hectares (91 acres). The land around the reservoir is called the North Slipperfield Estate. This estate uses the land for grazing animals and for shooting sports.
Ancient Discoveries at the Reservoir
When the reservoir was built, it caused the ground to wear away in some places. This erosion uncovered an ancient burial site from the Bronze Age. Archaeologists explored this site and found nine stone boxes called cists. These cists held the remains of people who had been buried or cremated. Most of the people found were young, either children or young adults. The archaeologists also found evidence of flowers left as tributes. Special items, known as grave goods, were also discovered with the burials.
Fishing Fun at Westwater
Westwater Reservoir is a popular spot for fly fishing. The reservoir is regularly stocked with brown trout, which are a type of fish. This means new fish are added so there are always plenty for anglers to catch. In 2003, the rights to manage fishing at the reservoir were given to a local fishing club. This club now looks after the fishing activities for everyone who wants to cast a line.
Protecting Wildlife at Westwater
Westwater Reservoir is a very important place for wildlife. It is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Ramsar site. These special titles mean the area is recognized for its valuable natural features.
Pink-footed Geese and Other Birds
In autumn and winter, the reservoir becomes home to a huge number of pink-footed geese. These geese gather here to roost, which means they rest and sleep together. Between 2003 and 2008, there were often more than 40,000 geese at the reservoir. This is almost 11% of all the pink-footed geese in the world!
Many other birds also live around the reservoir. Some birds, like the common gull, common ringed plover, dunlin, and common tern, even build their nests and raise their young here. In winter, you might also see other important birds. These include the common goldeneye, barnacle goose, tufted duck, and Eurasian teal. The reservoir provides a safe and rich habitat for all these amazing birds.
