For many years hydro-morphology and in particular physical obstructions in rivers have been one of the major unresolved issues highlighted by the WFD process. It will be interesting to see how this plays out, not least with other Government messages on slowing the flow.

Defra & Environment Agency: ‘Rivers across England could benefit from new Government plans to help address declining freshwater fish stocks so native species can thrive. Migration within rivers and between rivers and the sea is an important part of the lifecycles of many species of fish native to England. But these journeys can be impeded by structures like weirs or water intakes, hampering fishes’ efforts to reproduce or feed.

This month the Government is setting out proposed new legislation to remove obstructions or build fish passes to provide a route around or through these hurdles. These passes already exist on some rivers across the country, as do protective screens to stop fish getting trapped in water intakes—but more action is needed. New legislation to facilitate fish passage could help recover stocks of species like salmon, which are born in our rivers and swim to the Atlantic to mature for up to three years before returning to the same river to spawn.

Speaking as he visited the River Fowey in Cornwall with The Rivers Trust to see first-hand work that had improved fish passage, Fisheries Minister George Eustice said: Improving and restoring our rivers is key to the Government’s vision for a cleaner, healthier environment—but we can’t do this alone. That’s why the work of organisations like The Rivers Trust is so important, and we are increasingly working in partnership to take action to protect iconic species like salmon, including by ensuring them safe passage in our rivers. Addressing the decline in fish stocks not only benefits the environment, but boosts the economy too, improving angling opportunities and benefitting commercial freshwater fisheries, helping the rural economy to thrive.

Increasing freshwater fish will mean anglers can enjoy catching all kinds of different species, both in tranquil riverside surroundings or surprising fishing hotspots in our towns and cities. Four million anglers in England and Wales spend £3 billion on angling every year, supporting around 37,000 full-time jobs. Better angling opportunities can lead to higher revenues from tourism, helping to build a thriving rural economy.’  To read more click here

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