The Spey is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. It harbours internationally important populations of Atlantic Salmon and otter among other creatures; it is therefore both nationally and internationally significant. Its waters sustain life, social and economic well being, and evoke images of the clean and healthy environment.

In days gone by the River Spey served as the primary means of transporting many tonnes of pine logs. They travelled from Rothiemurchus and Glenmore to the sea at Garmouth and then to southern markets. Today it is often fished, photographed and even flooded, but never forgotten.