Two major river restoration projects are underway in the upper Wye catchment which will reconnect more than 18km of river habitat, improve fish passage and restore more natural river processes.
Natural Resources Wales’ Upper Wye Catchment Restoration Project is working in partnership with Powys County Council to replace two ageing pipe, or Irish, bridges on the rivers Cammarch and Duhonw near Builth Wells.
The existing pipe bridges restrict the movement of fish and sediment through the rivers and require ongoing maintenance because gravel and woody debris can become trapped during high flows.
They are now being replaced with clear-span bridge structures, removing the barriers and allowing the rivers to function more naturally while providing more resilient crossings for landowners.
The upper reaches of the Wye tributaries provide important spawning grounds for threatened species including Atlantic salmon.
Together, the two projects will reconnect more than 18km of upstream habitat for species including Atlantic salmon, lamprey and bullhead.
The work will also restore the natural movement of gravel and help provide the clean and healthy environment needed for successful egg survival.
The projects form part of the Upper Wye Catchment Restoration Project, which is funded through the Welsh Government’s Nature and Climate Emergency Fund and aims to restore the condition of the upper River Wye Special Area of Conservation.
Fish rescued before construction work
Before construction began on the River Duhonw, NRW specialists carried out a fish rescue to relocate wildlife from the work area before the river was temporarily diverted.
Using specialist electrofishing equipment, the team captured and relocated five Atlantic salmon parr, 12 bullhead, two eels and around 50 trout fry and parr.
The fish were moved to a suitable stretch of river downstream before construction started.
Electrofishing is carried out by trained operators and temporarily stuns fish so they can be captured before being allowed to recover and released unharmed into suitable habitat.
NRW said the operation highlighted the importance of carrying out fish rescues before work begins within river channels, as well as the need to remove the existing pipe bridges.
Project Lead, Susie Tudge, said: “By working closely with Powys County Council, we have been able to progress two projects that will deliver lasting environmental benefits. Fish and other wildlife using these tributaries will feel the effects straight away, while the wider community will also benefit from healthier, more resilient rivers. At a time when our rivers face increasing pressures, we are proud to be taking positive steps to strengthen these important tributaries of the River Wye.”
The Upper Wye Catchment Restoration Project works with farmers, landowners and local organisations to restore rivers across the Wye catchment.
Its work uses practical, nature-based solutions designed to improve water quality, restore habitats and build resilience to climate change.
Construction work on both bridge replacement projects is now underway.
