Loughs Agency Carries Out Vital Works on Deele River to Boost Biodiversity and Water Quality

11th November 2024

Afloat.ie Team

From left: Shane Gallagher of the Loughs Agency, landowner Liz Sheppard, Dave Scott of Deele Anglers, LAWPRO representative Lisa McDaniels and Vasiliki Katsorida of the Loughs Agency with the solar-powered water pump that allows livestock to access fresh water without impacting the river ecosystem Credit: Davy Ralston Photography

A riparian buffer zone has been constructed on the Deele River in Co Donegal to reduce sediment and nutrient inputs, enhancing water quality and improving habitat stability and climate resilience.

The works were completed by the Loughs Agency in collaboration with local stakeholders, including landowner Ralph Sheppard, the Local Authority Water Programme (LAWPRO), Deele Anglers and the Wild Trout Trust.

To ensure that riverbanks remain undisturbed and water quality is maintained, the Loughs Agency supplied a solar-powered water pump and trough for the area, allowing livestock to access fresh water without impacting the river ecosystem.

In addition, the Wild Trout Trust conducted a specialised training session for Deele Anglers and LAWPRO staff, focusing on the application of soft engineering techniques and nature-friendly methods designed to stabilise riverbanks, prevent excessive erosion, and support fish habitats that align with the Loughs Agency’s wider commitments to sustainable fisheries management and habitat enhancement.

Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency chief executive said: “Our objective for this fisheries improvement project was to improve the water quality and overall biodiversity of the Deele River, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable environment.

“This initiative ties in with our Fisheries and Angling Strategy launched earlier this year and shows what can be accomplished through collaboration.

“Loughs Agency is committed to engaging with angling clubs, landowners and stakeholders throughout the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas to support biodiversity, climate resilience and the health of local water systems. We look forward to completing similar projects with other stakeholders in the future.”

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.