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Hydro Resource Evaluation Tool
environmental implications
Is the watercourse a fish river?
- Are any of the fish Priority Species?
- Is the site used for recreational angling?
Man has had a long relationship with fish as a source of food and now as a source of recreation. Consequently, the modification of any water course in a way that will negatively impact on fish populations is unlikely to be welcomed.
A first check of the fisheries near to the site is to check on the Waterscape web-site. The Environment Agency is responsible for granting rod licences and its fisheries officers may be able to advise on other fishing clubs that are not on the web-sites. They may also be able to advise on local bye-laws.
The Agency also takes responsibility for fish passes, i.e. structures built to allow fish to migrate up stream for spawning and down stream once emerged. Existing fish passes often require maintenance and the Agency may be interested in linking development with other management tasks.
Action: Use local knowledge, check Environment Agency.
