Auch-a-Clachan Pool

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Caithness

Scotland

Auch-a-Clachan Pool

Bridge over River Thurso at Westerdale The river slips over Caithness slabs past an old mill. — Bridge over River Thurso at Westerdale Credit: Alan Reid

Auch-a-Clachan Pool is a freshwater marsh located in Caithness, Scotland. This natural feature is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique ecological value.

The pool is situated within a low-lying area surrounded by peatland and heather moorland. It covers an approximate area of 10 hectares and is characterized by shallow, still water with a depth ranging from 0.5 to 2 meters. The pool is fed by several small streams that drain into it, ensuring a constant supply of fresh water.

The vegetation surrounding Auch-a-Clachan Pool is diverse and includes species such as common reed, sedge, and water horsetail. These plants provide important habitat and food sources for a variety of animal species. The pool itself is home to a range of freshwater organisms, including water beetles, dragonfly larvae, and various species of fish.

The pool attracts a wide array of bird species throughout the year, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Species such as teal, wigeon, and mallard can be spotted during the winter months, while summer visitors include lapwing, snipe, and redshank.

Auch-a-Clachan Pool is not only important for its biodiversity but also for its role in water regulation and filtration. The marsh acts as a natural buffer, helping to control water flow and reduce flooding in the surrounding area.

Visitors to Auch-a-Clachan Pool can enjoy the tranquility of the marshland and observe its unique flora and fauna. The site is easily accessible by foot and offers opportunities for nature walks and wildlife photography.

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Auch-a-Clachan Pool Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.45692/-3.4993983 or Grid Reference ND1253. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bridge over River Thurso at Westerdale

The river slips over Caithness slabs past an old mill.

Alan Reid

Stone Bridge

Over a tributary of the River Thurso an old bridge leads a track to an abandoned farmstead.

Glen Breaden

Westerdale Mill

On the River Thurso this former mill presents a pretty picture.

Glen Breaden

Corner Cottage

As the name suggests this cottage stands at the junction of the Halkirk and Mybster roads.

Glen Breaden

Road into the wilds - remote phonebox

Peter Moore

Westerdale Mill on the Thurso

Peter Moore

Road down to Westerdale

Good to cycle down....

Peter Moore

Dale farm

Peter Moore

Track to Dale House

Peasants not welcome....

Peter Moore

Achlibster

Peter Moore

Westerdale Mill on the River Thurso

John Ferguson

Old Mill at Westerdale

Nigel Thompson

Dale Mill, Westerdale, Caithness

Dale Mill is one of these places that is often painted and photographed! The watermill supplies Dale House (which is now a private hotel) with electricity.

Dorcas Sinclair

Dale Mill, Caithness

A closer view of the mill. This must be a good fishing beat as there are nearly always people here fishing. Dale Mill, located by the River Thurso, had a water-powered generator installed in 1919 which supplies electricity to Dale House.

Dorcas Sinclair

Westerdale Rapid

In high water this is a nice Grade 3 rapid. It is a shame that it is in the middle of miles of flat water. Easily accessed from the road on the way up to paddle Dirlot Gorge further upstream

Donnie Robson