Lochaber Fisheries Trust: Genetic Diversity and Population Density Survey

Purpose of Grant

To fund the implementation of juvenile surveys which assessed young salmon densities and genetic diversity in 8 local rivers in Lochaber.

Project Description

The requested grant enabled the Lochaber Fisheries Trust to undertake an extensive sampling project that fed into the decision-making process of wider management responses.

Grant monies were used to fund 8 juvenile surveys which assessed the current fish densities in the designated waters. 8 sites were selected on the Rivers Nevis, Loy, Roy, Lundy, Cona, Shiel, Moidart and Finnan. Each sampling site covered a roughly 30m stretch of the riverbank and a 100m2 area.

The Trust took genetic samples from 60 fish in each river (fry and parr). The project also examined the habitats of each sampling site so that the Trust could advise on any restoration activities, if required. The applicant collaborated with the University of the Highlands and Islands who were subcontracted to collect the raw genetic data. These data identified the approximate number of spawning parents that produced the 60 juvenile fish (an indication of genetic diversity of the population).

These data were then passed on to the Trust’s senior biologist who compiled a full report for each of the 8 sites. Reports included an analysis of the genetic and density data, recommendations on stocking (if advised) and other potential restoration efforts for each river. Findings were distributed to the designated landowners, local aquaculture and interested parties. The project had an 18-month duration and ran from August 2021 to March 2023. It is estimated that at least 10 individuals directly participated in the project.

Budget

The requested grant of £19,600.00 was approved and covered around 70% of the overall project costs of £27,200.00.