Jun 19

ObstacEELS: Eel Barrier Survey Training (Ravensbourne Focus) with Thames21

10:00 am – 11:30 am

Join the Thames21 Eel Force to help survey barriers to eel migration across the Ravensbourne catchment. This is a citizen science training developed by ZSL , working with project partners of the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project. The aim is to collect data to enable a strategic approach to future eel projects, such as potential weir removal or modification/eel pass installation and improve the future of the critically endangered European eel.

Citizen Science ObstacEELS Training
This session is a 1.5 hour zoom comprising of the following:

  • Introduction to the project and the challenges facing the European eel
  • Guide to the newly updated River Obstacles App
  • How to use the Eel Barrier Assessment Tool
  • Survey planning session – dividing the catchment between us

After completion of the online training, participants will be able to survey specified stretches of their local river using the River Obstacles App. The first sessions will be attended by a trained member of Thames21 or ZSL staff to support and finish the training process.

Why is this important?
The European eel urgently needs our help. Numerous challenges face this fascinating species including ‘river obstacles’, such as weirs, sluices and locks which can prevent upstream migration for eels – a vital part of their life cycle. By joining our Eel Force, you will help collect data to fully survey barriers, contributing to the Fish Migration Roadmap and help us see where best to target our practical habitat work for eels.

If you’d like to be part of our citizen science Eel Force:
To sign up or for further information, contact Oli on oli.back@thames21.org.uk or 07597 577 793

This project is funded by the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund. The fund is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England and the Environment Agency.

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