Home / Environment / Devon Rivers Hit Record Lows, Fish Struggle
Devon Rivers Hit Record Lows, Fish Struggle
24 Aug
Summary
- Rivers in Devon and Cornwall have reached exceptionally low levels.
- Record low flows at Trews Weir hinder salmon migration.
- Thousands of distressed fish have been rescued from drying rivers.
Rivers across Devon and Cornwall are experiencing exceptionally low water levels, a situation attributed to the extended period of hot and dry weather. At Trews Weir on the Exe in Exeter, the Environment Agency has recorded the lowest flows ever documented, critically impacting the upstream migration of Atlantic salmon intended for spawning.
Consequently, thousands of fish have been rescued from rivers that were rapidly drying up. These rescues were prompted by reports of fish in distress at numerous locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. Both counties are currently under drought conditions, with a hosepipe ban in effect, and authorities continue to issue warnings regarding the heightened risk of wildfires.
