A project on River Erkina in Laois has been awarded funding for fisheries conservation.
Inland Fisheries Ireland, the state agency with responsibility for the protection and conservation of freshwater fish and habitats, is awarding funding to 17 projects in 11 counties under the ‘Habitats and Conservation Scheme 2021’.
In Laois, €24,000 in funding has been granted for habitat enhancement works for salmon on the River Erkina in the Nore catchment.
The funding will go towards works on the river and adjacent lands, such as selective tree pruning, fallen tree removal, placement of boulders and pair deflectors to improve water quality, habitat, climate mitigation and the movement of fish.
The announcement has been welcomed by Minister Eamon Ryan, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications.
The Minister said: “The Habitats and Conservation Scheme 2021 is a great example of proactive conservation and protection of habitats.
“The scheme will support angling clubs, commercial fishermen and fishery owners in improving habitats, water quality and fish passage at a local grassroots level.
“The works and studies supported by the scheme will also result in wider benefits for the environment.”
Since 2016, Inland Fisheries Ireland has made more than €4 million available through its various funding schemes, including the two 2021 funds.
Suzanne Campion, Head of Business Development with Inland Fisheries Ireland said: “Protecting and conserving fish species, like Atlantic Salmon and Sea Trout, is critical to overall health of our eco-system.
“Threats like water pollution, climate change and invasive species are all having a damaging impact.
“Under the Habitats and Conservation Scheme, made possible through fishing licence income, groups all over the country will be working on projects and measures that benefit the conservation of salmon, sea trout and their freshwater habitats.”
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