River Worfe Habitat Restoration Project

Previous project and survey work has highlighted the need for habitat improvements across the Worfe. The work planned will focus on a Catchment Based Approach, specifically aimed at BAP Priority in-stream river habitat restoration to directly benefit BAP Priority species: native brown trout, salmon, eels, invertebrates, white clawed crayfish, bullhead, otters, lamprey, and water voles. This project will enhance previous work by expanding it into other critical areas of the catchment, not previously targeted.These areas are highlighted by reports showing heavily eroding river banks in the lower catchment due to poor agricultural practices and river management which increases the sediment inputs that severely impact upon fish and invertebrate populations. The work will consist largely of habitat improvements by installing livestock fencing and in-stream soft revetments. Tree coppicing will also be undertaken to reduce the spread of Phytophthora and increase natural light to the channel.