In order for the Agency to fulfil obligations under the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and Eel Regulations, fish access facilities are being installed in tidal flaps at many sites in the lower reaches of rivers to allow the migration of elver, eel and other species between the main river or estuary and incoming tributaries and drains.
However, the operation of these fish access devices could result in potential changes in the water quality and sediment regime in the associated drains, with implications for management and maintenance regimes in these drains, and in late 2011 the Environment Agency commissioned a short study to investigate the potential for this.
Further information: Dr. Graeme Peirson, Evidence Directorate, Air, Land and Water Team