http://www.scottish-lochside-cottages.com/

Ardenstur Holiday Cottages, Kilmelford, Oban (2026)

07/06/2026

22/05/2026

Hello everybody,
The Native Oyster (Ostrea edulis) was once abundant on the west coast of Scotland, but populations declined by over 90% during the late 20th century.
As some of you may already know, Kilchoan Melfort Trust has an ongoing Native Oyster Restoration Project. The aim is to restore and rebuild a once-abundant and resilient population of native oysters in Loch Melfort. This is being done by cultivating oysters in Kilchoan Bay and releasing them across several restoration sites throughout the loch. Currently over 60,000 oysters have been released with the ambition to quadruple this over the next two years.
In 2020, baseline surveys were conducted across 28 sites in Loch Melfort. Fourteen sites showed traces and evidence that native oysters had historically been present, but only five sites still had surviving oysters. Current estimates suggest there are fewer than 700 old remnant (non-released) oysters left in the loch. These larger remnant oysters are incredibly important for breeding and for maintaining a natural genetic connection within the population.
Last week, we found several native oyster shells with remains of meat still inside them. These oysters had clearly been gathered and consumed. Not only is this illegal in Scotland, but it also has a serious impact on the remaining breeding population of native oysters in the loch.
We are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world, and the Kilmelford / Loch Melfort area is understandably popular with visitors exploring our shores. Many people are simply unaware of the pressures and challenges facing our marine environment.
There are a few ways people can help if they would like to support the project:
• Holiday lets and accommodation providers could mention the Native Oyster Restoration Project in guest welcome books or information packs. Raising awareness can make a real difference:
[https://www.nature.scot/new-guidance-provides-advice...][https://kilchoanmelforttrust.org/rewilding/].....