Interesting what others are doing.....

No, we aren't Wales but we also are not the only people learning about wild fish and hatchery fish. The Natural Resources Department of Wales is beginning a new approach on a river system in that country......

Date: 02/10/2014

Press Release

CYMRAEG ISOD

New approach to protecting wild salmon

A major change in the way Natural Resources Wales works to protect wild salmon has been agreed.

A comprehensive review of scientific research found that hatchery-reared young salmon have a much lower survival rate than young wild fish, and can harm existing wild salmon populations.

NRW now intends to phase out salmon stocking by 2015 and close its hatcheries at Mawddach, near Dolgellau and Maerdy near Corwen.

The proposal was confirmed today (Thursday) by NRW’s board.

The Cynrig hatchery, near Brecon, will remain open and NRW will assess the possibility of developing a freshwater research center on the site.

Ceri Davies, Director of Knowledge, Strategy and Planning for Natural Resources Wales said:

“We are passionate about making sure that Wales has a healthy and sustainable salmon population. To do that, we need to use our resources as effectively as possible.

“We’ve done a lot over the years to improve water quality and, together with our partners, to improve habitats and resolve barriers to migration. We believe the benefits of these are now starting to have effect, and this will improve freshwater conditions for our salmon and other fish.

“Our rivers are an important part of our environment. They provide essential habitats for fish and other wildlife as well as giving people opportunities to enjoy the outdoors through angling and other water-based activities.”

The article continues:

 

“Although it might be argued that given the weight of scientific evidence the cessation of stocking is long overdue, historically, changes to any fisheries management or bylaw have invariably been watered down to get past a minority of vociferous critics.

“This time the new organization has gone with the evidence and honored the sustainable principles enshrined in their name. “

Ceri added:

“We recognize that there will be some debate around this decision, but scientific evidence shows that this is the best course of action to secure the future of wild salmon and angling in Wales.

“We have an opportunity to think creatively about the best way to support fish stocks so our rivers can continue to provide benefits to the wildlife, people and economy of Wales.

“We have agreed to develop a robust action plan to do this and will report back on progress.”