Trout Beck Project

The Trout Beck sub-catchment has been a restoration priority for the Eden Rivers Trust since 2004. 
Our research has shown Trout Beck to be one of the most productive tributaries within the catchment. Considerable habitat improvement work has already been undertaken here, however, localised pressures do still exist including patches of riparian habitat damage, water quality issues and barriers to fish migration. The aim of this project is to continue this work to protect and conserve the high biodiversity value of the Trout Beck providing an exemplar template for sustainable habitat restoration.

Over the last six years we have carried out a great deal of work including:

• 9000 metres of riverside fencing
• Planting of 2900 trees
• 420 trees coppiced
• 6 farm holdings receiving advice on reducing diffuse pollution
• The installation of 2 fish passes

The Trust also puts great value on working with the local community and to that end we have attended shows, carried out school visits and given various evening talks.  The project has been a great example of best practice and innovation to solve complex problems. 

We would like to acknowledge the support and enthusiasm of the Oglesby Charitable Trust which has backed the project over the last six years.  It has also been supported by Natural England, the Wild Trout Trust and Leader+.  We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the project funders as well as to all the farmers and individuals who have been involved. 

We are due to publish a final project report and a best practice case study of the project which will be going onto our website in the near future.