River fish stocks are given a boost

Fisheries teams are stocking 2,600 barbel at the River Ivel near Biggleswade and Blunham today (Tuesday).

A further 1,800 fish will be released in the Upper Ouse between Newport Pagnell, Odell, Harold and Adams Mill in Gayhurst.

Environment Agency fisheries teams have been working to improve river habitats for fish and other wildlife. 
They have been paying particular attention to spawning beds, water quality and improved fish passage.

Fisheries officer Alex Malcolm said: “We are pleased that we can provide these fish for stocking as part of our commitment to rod licence paying anglers. Restoration and the creation of new fisheries for all people to enjoy, is a very important aspect to our work.”

The agency releases fish into waterways annually and it is targeted using data from national fish surveys to identify where there are problems with poor breeding and survival.

Up to 500,000 are produced each year at the organisation’s fish farm in Calverton, Nottinghamshire. It is funded through rod licence fees from anglers.

To find out more about the work of the Environment Agency visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk