Salmon populations in England and Wales have reached an all-time low, raising concerns among environmentalists and anglers.
A recent report from the Environment Agency and Cefas indicated that Atlantic salmon stocks have fallen to their lowest point since records began in 1997. This alarming trend is largely attributed to pollution and climate change, which have both taken a toll on this endangered species.
Salmon Numbers Plummet in U.K.
Once common throughout the waterways of the U.K., salmon are now becoming a rare find for fishermen. These anglers keep detailed records of each catch to create a comprehensive overview of the current salmon situation.
Per the report, researchers are taking steps to monitor salmon populations by establishing nets in rivers known for salmon activity. This year's data showed a significant downturn in salmon numbers. The total estimated catch for 2023 stood at only 5,399 fish, a sharp decrease from the 6,952 fish caught in 2022. Up until 2017, at least 20,000 fish were documented annually. This shows just how much the population has dropped over the years.
Rivers that are home to significant salmon populations are called "principal salmon rivers." Out of 64 of these rivers, only one is considered not at risk, suggesting that the majority of salmon populations are not sustainable. The decline of salmon is concerning, as they are crucial indicators of environmental health. Because salmon are sensitive to pollution, their declining numbers often signal worsening water quality.
The problems affecting salmon populations stem from several factors. Sewage and agricultural pollution, chemical runoff from industrial activities and sedimentation all contribute to the declining health of rivers.
Additionally, obstacles like weirs hinder salmon migration. Many rivers have been altered, becoming straighter and deeper, reducing the shallow waters necessary for salmon to spawn. Furthermore, companies withdrawing water from rivers has led to dangerously low water levels.
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Salmon Decline and Environmental Issues
Stuart Singleton-White, who leads campaigns at the Angling Trust, said that anglers are at the forefront of efforts to protect wild Atlantic salmon, as per The Guardian. For years, there has been growing concern about the significant decrease in the number of salmon returning to the rivers.
Much of this focus has been directed at government agencies that have not adequately addressed the serious challenges facing the fish. Salmon require cold, clear water and unobstructed rivers to thrive, yet they often do not receive these essential conditions.
The discharge of untreated sewage into rivers and oceans has sparked outrage across Britain. Privatized water companies are being accused of consistently releasing waste into waterways while neglecting necessary infrastructure upgrades.
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency (EA), pointed out that four decades ago, it was estimated that 1.4 million salmon returned to rivers across the U.K. each year. Today, that number has dropped to just over a third of that figure, marking a new low and highlighting the growing biodiversity crisis.
The Environment Agency has reported similar decreases in salmon populations in other countries, including Ireland, Iceland, Sweden and Canada. However, the U.K. has seen the most significant decline of all.
According to Reuters, the provisional rod catch for the previous year was reported at 4,911 fish, representing a 23% decrease compared to the final declared catch for 2022 and marking the lowest figure since records began in 1988.
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