The Tyne was among several catchments across eastern Scotland that improved from 'significant' to 'moderate' scarcity after persistent dry conditions had left water levels critically low for much of the year. Eilidh Johnston, senior manager in water industry and rural economy at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: "Although some areas have recovered from significant scarcity, rivers in eastern Scotland remain under sustained pressure, highlighting the vulnerability of eastern Scotland's water environment. Ms Johnston said: "We know how important water is to the Scottish economy, particularly sectors like farming, food and drink, and energy. "We also know that without a healthy water environment those sectors cannot thrive. While the recovery of the River Tyne and other catchments has led to the lifting of temporary abstraction restrictions in those areas, SEPA continues to urge all abstractors to use water efficiently and manage this shared resource responsibly.