Inland Fisheries Ireland and An Taisce host nature walk at Glenties Hatchery, Donegal

 Inland Fisheries Ireland and An Taisce recently partnered to host a guided nature walk on the Owenea River in Glenties for members of the public. The event was held beside the Glenties Hatchery and was open to those interested in learning more about the wildlife living in their local stretch of river.

Over 30 people participated in the two hour nature walk and demonstration where they enjoyed an examination of the insects and other creatures that live in the river. Assistant Inspector Owen Kelly of Inland Fisheries Ireland presented samples from three local rivers – the Abbey River near Ballyshannon, the Laghey River outside Donegal Town and the Owenea River itself.

Budding Scientists at the Glenties River Walk organised by Inland Fisheries Ireland and An Taisce
Budding Scientists at the Glenties River Walk organised by Inland Fisheries Ireland and An Taisce

The participants reviewed the water samples using microscopes and learn about water chemistry and macroinvertebrates. Mayflies, stoneflies, caddis flies and freshwater shrimp were all identified in the samples while an aquarium which contained juvenile trout and salmon helped explain the life cycle of fish to the children.

A demonstration on electro-fishing techniques and survey methods produced good numbers of salmon fry and parr fish which were placed in the aquarium for safe keeping before being returned to the river after the event. The public heard how the information gathered using electrofishing helps to determine the conservation limits of Ireland’s salmonid river systems.

Themes explored during the field trip included the life cycle of salmon, trout, sea trout, artic charr, freshwater pearl mussel and the threats that are facing the European eel. Discussions with attendees also took place on the threats and impacts facing the future survival of salmon, global warming, pollution and bye catch of other fishing industries.

Owen Kelly, Assistant Inspector at Inland Fisheries Ireland said: “We were delighted to partner with An Taisce on this initiative for the second year in a row which helps to inform the public of local aquatic life and habitat. Our local rivers are full of life and this initiative aims to engage the local community around the fisheries resource and highlight the importance of its protection and conservation.”

For more information on Inland Fisheries Ireland, visit www.fisheriesireland.ie .