YAP at Environment Agency Workshop
Members of the Young anglers Project
attended a workshop run by the Environment Agency at Tewkesbury on
7th February. The focus was on the river Severn
catchment with emphasis on the lower region.
A range of presentations were given and
topics discussed, including
An update on the Salmon and Sea Trout
Action plan with examples of the work done and of that still to do.
It was also noted that consideration is also now being given to the
other marine to freshwater migratory species eels and shad. Emphasis
was on environment methods of encouraging increased stocks rather
than restocking which can lead to reduction in the genetic pool and
cloned ‘Friesian cow’ fish.
The work of the newly formed Severn
River Trust was outlined with the more well established Wye and Usk
Foundation seen as a model. It is hoped to introduce a Fish Sabrena
initiative similar to the successful river passport scheme in the Wye
catchment.
Access was discussed. The British
Disabled Anglers Association are heading up an accessibility
certification scheme with bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels of
compliance. Examples of good and bad accessibility and fishing
platforms were shown. Accessibility for all and the need to be aware
of the environmental impact of the measures were highlighted.An accessibility workshop is to be held
in April together with individual fishery inspections. YAP is to
participate in both these initiatives.
Keith Urch (Project Manager) and Rob
England (Chief Coach) from the Young Anglers Project gave a well
received outline of our work. They outlined some of the groups of
young people we deal with and the differences it has made to the
individuals, groups and society.
The Environment Agency outlined some
the fishery projects it is involved with and the funding available
for future projects through the Fish for The Future Challenge
Funding.
The day finished with discussion groups. Topics discussed included the need for an
improvement in the coaching schemes. It was hoped that the new
Angling Trust would improve and build on the existing scheme with the
links to Sport England. The need to offer follow coaching to
people attending coaching at events such as The Three Counties Show.
The provision of more balancing ponds
as a harbour for fry to encourage increased survival rates and the
importance of anglers and clubs in identifying suitable sites.
In all a very successful and
informative day.
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