Loughs Agency has announced the completion of an innovative fisheries improvement project along the Deele River in Donegal to enhance biodiversity, support water quality improvements, and maintain sustainable fish populations.
In collaboration with local stakeholders, including landowner Ralph Sheppard, the Local Authority Water Programme (LAWPRO), Deele Anglers, and the Wild Trout Trust, a riparian buffer zone was constructed to reduce sediment and nutrient inputs, enhancing water quality and improving habitat stability and climate resilience. To ensure that riverbanks remain undisturbed and water quality is maintained, Loughs Agency supplied a solar-powered water pump and trough for the area, allowing livestock to access fresh water without impacting the river ecosystem.
L-R, Shane Gallagher, Loughs Agency, Liz Sheppard, landowner, Dave Scott, Deele Anglers, Lisa McDaniels, LAWPRO representative, Vasiliki Katsorida, Loughs Agency.
In addition, the Wild Trout Trust conducted a specialised training session for Deele Anglers and LAWPRO staff, focusing on the application of soft engineering techniques and nature-friendly methods designed to stabilise riverbanks, prevent excessive erosion, and support fish habitats that align with Loughs Agency’s wider commitments to sustainable fisheries management and habitat enhancement.
Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO, said: “Our objective for this fisheries improvement project was to improve the water quality and overall biodiversity of the Deele River, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable environment. This initiative ties in with our Fisheries and Angling Strategy launched earlier this year and shows what can be accomplished through collaboration.
“Loughs Agency is committed to engaging with angling clubs, landowners and stakeholders throughout the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas to support biodiversity, climate resilience and the health of local water systems. We look forward to completing similar projects with other stakeholders in the future.”