14 hours ago
River Usk project to aid salmon migration begins next week
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) will begin construction next week on a new fish passage at Brecon Weir on the River Usk, designed to support the migration of young salmon.
The project is part of the Four Rivers for LIFE Project, which focuses on improving river habitats for declining species.
Leila Thornton from the Four Rivers for LIFE Project said: "This scheme has been years in the planning and we are delighted to be finally starting these works and thank everyone who's been involved so far.
"This work will significantly improve access for declining populations of fish including the endangered Atlantic salmon and will hopefully be a step towards the recovery of the species."
Brecon Weir currently poses a major barrier for young salmon, known as smolts, as they migrate downstream to the sea.
A new smolt pass will be installed to address this issue by helping the fish move safely past the weir.
Fish tracking studies have shown that the weir can delay migration during periods of low flow, increasing the risk of disease and predation.
The improved structure will feature a u-shaped notch, a bell mouth entrance, and an approach ramp to aid fish movement.
Construction, led by contractor Midwest Plant, is expected to take around three months, depending on weather and river conditions.
The Four Rivers for LIFE Project is funded by the EU LIFE Programme with additional support from the Welsh Government and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.
