Work in progress

Work has begun in earnest on the river. A number of working parties have taken place. The depth at various different locations has been determined. LWD (large wood debris) has been removed. Working parties have been meeting at the river near Moorbridge lane on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings.

The Environment Agency have offered their support to the project following a visit to the River on the 27th February.

A copy of their letter is below:

River Erewash Trout Restoration Scheme - Following the site meeting held on the 27.02.08 attended by the Environment Agency Fisheries Department and representatives from the River Erewash Trout Restoration Scheme, I am writing to offer the Environment Agency’s technical assistance in delivering this project.The intention of this scheme is to try to restore a self sustaining population of brown trout (Salmo trutta) to a stretch of the Erewash around Trowell. Having visited the site to gain an idea as to the physical characteristics of the river in this area and the influences on this stretch, a number of short term objectives were agreed.Firstly we need to look at the water quality within this stretch because as to my knowledge, there are at least three major sewage works within or upstream of the stretch. Whether the quality of water discharged from the works is good enough to sustain trout is the initial concern. I would always be wary that although the quality at the time of sampling may be suitable, pollution events caused by these works are always a possibility. This stretch was subject to a pollution caused by Langley Mill works during October 2007 during which, large numbers of coarse fish were killed. Although records show that these events aren’t of annual occurrence, it does highlight the vulnerability of the river.I would hope to undertake general water quality analysis in the near future. If the results of the sampling indicate that the site is able to sustain trout, further investigations can proceed.If water quality analysis conforms to the standards for trout then we can assist the restoration group with mapping of the physical habitat on the stretch and following this, areas of suitable habitat can be surveyed for the presence of trout.You have already approached a number of organisations to put forward your intentions including The Wild Trout Trust. It would also be beneficial to inform the Trent Rivers Trust as they may offer further technical advice.I shall be in contact when I am able to secure a date for water quality analysis and further to that, possible habitat and fish surveys.

This is a positive step for the the project. The Wild Trout Trust have also offered their support, and look set to fund an Advisory visit.