Prioritising eel-migration barriers for passage improvements

Noble, Richard; Nunn, Andy; Harvey, Jon; Cowx, Ian

Abstract

Physical barriers are becoming increasingly recognised as major factors influencing the migrations, population structures, spawning success and recruitment of freshwater organisms. A high-profile example is that of the European eel, which has recently been classified as ‘critically endangered’ on the IUCN red list. This paper describes how eel-migration barriers can be assessed and prioritised for passage improvements, using two case studies as examples. A simple prioritisation matrix was developed using information on eel stock status, the degree to which barriers are limiting eel populations in the watercourse, the passability of each structure by eel, and the quality and quantity of eel habitat upstream of each structure. Objective prioritisation of migration barriers should ensure that access improvements are targeted to achieve maximum benefits.

Citation

Noble, R., Nunn, A., Harvey, J., & Cowx, I. (2009, April). Prioritising eel-migration barriers for passage improvements. Presented at Institute of Fisheries Management 2009 Eel Conference, Bridgwater, Somerset

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: Institute of Fisheries Management 2009 Eel Conference
• Acceptance Date: Dec 1, 2011
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2011
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 145 - 154
• Book Title: Eel Management: the State of the Art
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/409510
• Publisher URL: https://ifm.org.uk/shop/eel-conference-proceedings-paper-version/