Culdaff Development Association and Tidy Towns hosted a River Restoration Event on the river on Saturday 15th June
It was a sunny day as the board, staff, and volunteers of the Inishowen Rivers Trust worked to restore the riverbank of the Culdaff River. This effort is part of the Culdaff River Restoration project, supported by LAWPRO, initiated by Culdaff Development Association, and Tidy Towns.
The Culdaff River is significant for both its ecological and historical value. It once teemed with salmon and eels, as recalled by a local farmer and fisherman who remembers seeing large eels swimming out to sea from the village’s stone bridge. The decline in fish populations and sediment accumulation are current concerns for the river and estuary’s health.
Following a workshop on citizen science and river ecosystems with St. Boden’s National School, Tomas Lawrence conducted a survey of the Culdaff River in October 2023. Based on his recommendations, the Culdaff Development Association initiated a project funded by the Community Water Development Fund to address the identified water quality issues. The bank restoration was a key phase of this project, aimed at improving the river’s health and ecosystem.
Riverbank restoration involves stabilising eroding riverbanks using tree branches and other woody materials with an aim of improving water quality, enhancing habitats and engaging the community in practical action to benefit the environment. Through building the riverbank with woody debris erosion is reduced through branches trapping sediment which in turn builds up the riverbank.
The woody material acts as a natural filter, trapping sediments and pollutants and improving water quality. The branched and increased vegetation creates habitats for fish, mammals, and insects. The woody brash slows down the flow of water in high rainfall protecting the risk of flooding. The riverbank project was led by an experienced team of staff and board members of the Inishowen Rivers Trust who have been involved in nature-based restoration projects of several rivers throughout Inishowen. The response from volunteers is always positive, with the day on the river an opportunity to involve the community in connection and stewardship of the local environment.
‘It is an opportunity to do something constructive and positive for the environment’ said one volunteer. ‘Whilst spending the day in nature on the river.’
The riverbank restoration took place on the land of Johnny McGuinness, a keen angler who supports the efforts to improve water quality and habitats in the Culdaff River.
There will be another opportunity to take part in riverbank restoration in August and September. If you are interested in getting involved contact [email protected].
