Outdated River Leven pass to help eels migrate to be replaced
It is now being removed and a new one constructed, which is due to be fully operational by spring.Each autumn, eels leave European rivers to travel across the Atlantic Ocean to breed for a single time, then die.At the heart of the eel pass improvements is a float switch-controlled pump, which activates during low water flows to help eels move through, making sure they can continue to migrate even in challenging conditions.When water levels rise, the float switch automatically stops the pump, which will allow migrating eels to use the natural river flow, the EA says.During periods of high flow, the design allows for natural self-cleaning, reducing the need for manual maintenance and helping to maintain higher water quality standards.
The EA's Francis Frimpong said: "This new eel pass is another step forward in improving river connectivity and enhancing biodiversity. "By enabling eels to navigate past man-made barriers, we're helping to restore their natural migratory routes and strengthen their numbers for the future."
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