A new brown trout spawning ground has been created in South Cumbria thanks to conservation work.
South Cumbria Rivers Trust and land owner Holker Farms joined forces to restore the course of Rathmoss Beck in the hills above Ulverston, which feeds the Pennington Reservoir.
A survey carried out last week revealed the work, which also included uncovering buried sections of the beck, has created the new spawning ground for brown trout in the newly restored section of Rathmoss Beck.
Hannah Teagle, of South Cumbria Rivers Trust, said: “The excellent news is that the area of the beck that was once buried and lifeless is now a healthy, high-functioning spawning ground for brown trout.
“We’ve identified a young, healthy, and growing population — the direct result of restoring the beck’s natural flow.”
The team recorded 27 juvenile trout in a 50 metre stretch of the beck, using specialist equipment to temporarily stun and safely catch fish for measurement and population counts.
The restoration of Rathmoss Beck took place last autumn and was funded via the United Utilities Raw Water Project.
The project aimed to improve biodiversity, water quality, and habitat on at Rathvale Farm.
David Harvey, project leader for Holker Farms, added: “The Rathmoss Beck restoration is part of a wider effort across our farm estate to enhance biodiversity and sustainability. It’s fantastic to see nature bouncing back so clearly as a result.
“We’re grateful to South Cumbria Rivers Trust for their expertise and support during the project.”
