New move to tackle declining salmon numbers on Exe

River Restoration Programme launched to tackle declining salmon numbers on the Exe

The Westcountry Rivers Trust has been awarded £ 57,000 through the Exmoor Sustainable Development Fund (provided by Defra and administered by Exmoor National Park Authority) to carry out a two-year restoration programme to increase salmon numbers in the Little Exe.

The funding was provided supplements existing support from the Environment Agency, South West Water, River Exe and Tributaries Association and Dulverton Angling Association.

Studies have shown that salmon numbers have been declining in the Little Exe due to a number of factors such as bank erosion, over-shading and a lack of suitable spawning gravel. Restoration of salmon habitat will increase salmon numbers in the Little Exe and bring recreational and economic benefits to the local economy.

Under this programme, the Trust will work closely with farmers and landowners to raise awareness about the impacts affecting salmon habitat. Grant aid will be offered to improve land management and address water quality issues. These measures will help improve the number of salmon in the Little Exe and improve water quality also benefiting other important species.

Bank erosion is a significant problem on the Little Exe as it can cause siltation of spawning gravels and suffocation of salmon eggs. The project will encourage farmers and landowners to fence along the river bank, encouraging the growth of bank side plants and grasses. This will stabilise the riverbanks and protect them from future erosion. Designated drinking points will be used to limit livestock access to the river. In areas with excessive shade, coppicing will be carried out to introduce more light into shallow areas. This will allow in-stream plants to grow, providing food for aquatic insects, which are an essential part of the diet of freshwater fish.

Commenting on the restoration programme, Dr Neasa Mc Donnell, the Trust’s Project Officer for the Exe, said: “The need for action to address the decline in salmon numbers in the Exe is now well established. The funding provided by Exmoor Sustainable Development fund will play a pivotal role in tackling some of the problems affecting salmon in the Little Exe and is a positive step in helping to make a real difference to fish stocks. The restoration programme will also undoubtedly provide environmental and economic benefits to the local communities of Exmoor.”