Our Environment

The lochs of Tingwall and Asta are botanically two of the richest lochs in Shetland with 9 species of pondweeds and 4 species of stonewort amongst the species recorded. They are particularly sensitive to the quality of the water around them and thus are good indicators of water quality especially in relation to nutrient pollution from nitrates and phosphates. They are an important part of the aquatic ecosystem and are a food source for wildfowl and provide shelter from predators for small invertebrates and fish. The lochs are among the most important sites in Shetland for wintering and migrant wildfowl that feed on the abundant pondweed.

The loch margin vegetation within the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) is typical of the semi natural vegetation that would have grown on the richer soils around many of Shetland’s lochs but has been much reduced by agricultural improvements. Grazing pressure around the lochs is light and should ensure the botanical interest is maintained. There is a path around the loch (used by the Model Yacht Club) which you are welcome to use as long as you respect the habitat and avoid causing any pollution or disturbance of wildfowl.

Nature Scotland works closely with the local land owners and users to protect and maintain and enhance the features of special interest. Scalloway Caravan Park has agreed to undertake monitoring of runoff from the site in order to keep an eye on the levels of nutrient entering the loch.

Tingwall valley is an unusually green valley for Shetland as it sits on metamorphic limestone which gives rise to some of the best agricultural land in Shetland. Consequently the site is located in the middle of enclosed agricultural land used mainly for grazing of sheep and cattle and for producing silage , fodder and hay crops. Horses and ponies are also kept in nearby fields.