Environment Agency Fisheries Monitoring Report 2006

This site was surveyed as part of the Environment Agency National Fisheries Monitoring Programme which involves surveying a selected series of sites either every year or every five years. The survey was carried out by electrofishing a 100m stretch of river. Two or three catches are usually taken. We estimate the abundance of minor fish species. All the major fish species are measured and scales are taken to allow us to establish the age and growth rate of the fish. We use statistical methods to estimate:

·        the weight of fish present

·        standing crop, an estimate of the weight of fish present in 100m²

·        the number of fish present in the stretch of water surveyed

Plate 1: Top of site                                     Plate 2: Bottom of site

Major Species

Minor Species

(Abundance: Present 1 – 9, Common 10 – 99, Abundant 100 – 999)

Figure 1 Composition of angling important species by standing crop (g/100m²)

Figure 2 Temporal total standing crop (g/100m²)

The lower standing crop in 2006, similarly to 2004 and 2005, is due to a lower catch of eels In 2006 none of the coarse fish species such as roach and dace that have been caught in previous surveys were found. Roach, in particular, have a shoaling habit hence catches vary between surveys. It should also be noted that unfortunately conditions for electric fishing on the day of the survey were not ideal. The Leadon was turbid and flowing rather fast making it difficult to see the fish ad the electric fishing less efficient. A better catch would be expected under more suitable conditions.    

If you require any further information please contact Anna Elkin, Ecological Appraisal Officer, Environment Agency, Riversmeet House, Newtown Industrial Estate, Northway Lane, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 8JG. Direct Line 01684 864385 or email anna.elkin@environment-agency.gov.uk .