Loughs Agency Enhances Fisheries Across Carlingford

11th September 2025

Afloat.ie Team

Loughs Agency works as part of the fisheries improvement project in the Carlingford catchment

The Loughs Agency has completed extensive fisheries improvement works in the Carlingford catchment area. The initiative, part of a broader Fisheries and Angling Improvement Strategy, aims to enhance local fish habitats and promote sustainable land management.

Over £93,000 has been invested in various river and tributary enhancements in Newry and Omeath. Key locations include Kilmore Burn, Finnard Cullion, Turmore, and the Ryland River. These efforts are designed to improve waterway health and biodiversity.

The project included 1.55 km of new riparian fencing and 600 m of repairs, establishing buffer zones to keep livestock away from sensitive habitats. Livestock gates, access stiles, and solar-powered pumps were also installed for better water access.

In total, 800 native trees were planted to help stabilise riverbanks while enhancing shade and cover for fish. Additionally, 20 tonnes of spawning gravel were added, along with substrates removed and bank apologies fixed.

Sharon McMahon, CEO of Loughs Agency, stated, “These works are a vital step in our core objective to protect and conserve fish stocks.” She emphasised the importance of collaboration with local landowners and anglers.

The enhancement works are ongoing while similar projects are planned for the Foyle and Carlingford catchments.

Carlingford Catchment Projects

Total investment: £93,375
Number of projects: 4

Kilmore Burn Fisheries Improvement Project
• Cost: £15,240
• Works: 2 pumps, 4 concrete troughs, 950m fencing, 1 access stile, 1 access gate, 3 livestock gates, 15m soft engineering, 500 trees

Finnard Cullion Fisheries Improvement Project
• Cost: £39,759
• Works: 300m soft engineering, 20-ton spawning gravel, 300m fencing, 200m fencing repair, livestock gates, 3 troughs, 3 pumps

Turmore Fisheries Improvement Project
• Cost: £32,787
• Works: 3 solar-powered pumps, 3 drinking water troughs, 300m fencing, 400m fencing repair, 6 access stiles, 1 livestock gate, 300 native broadleaf trees, 75m soft engineering

Ryland River Fisheries Improvement Project
• Cost: £5,589.87
• Works: 60m substrate removal and bank reprofiling, 2 breaches fixed, 100m double bank construction and reprofiling

Published in Loughs Agency, Angling

Published in Loughs Agency

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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.