TWO conservation trusts are working together to understand the effects of climate change on our rivers.

A donation from the Northumberland Branch of Salmon & Trout Conservation UK has funded a survey of fish populations by Tyne Rivers Trust and its volunteers to give insight into the health of the Tyne rivers and the effects of climate change.

The Salmon and Trout Conservation UK’s Northumbria branch has donated £1,500 to Tyne Rivers Trust, which is the only environmental charity dedicated to improving the health of the Tyne rivers.

The money will support electrofishing surveys in local rivers to assess long-term changes to fish populations which highlight where improvements can be made.

This information is also used to understand the impact that a changing climate has on Tyne fish populations.

Dr Jack Bloomer, deputy chief executive officer at Tyne Rivers Trust, said: “Our work to improve the river is based on science and surveying fish populations is one of the best ways to find out where improvements are needed.

“Fish like salmon and trout are indicator species that thrive in healthy rivers but underperform where improvements are needed.

"These surveys will help to identify where improvements, such as a fish pass or bankside tree planting will have the most benefit as well as showing how successful previous work has been.

"This helps us to make sure that we carry out the most effective work in the right place to ensure a healthy river for future generations to enjoy.”

Electrofishing uses a small electric current to temporarily stun fish so they can be caught.

Trained surveyors then record the number, species and size of fish present, which gives accurate information about the health of the river.

Richard Rowlands, chair of the Northumberland branch of Salmon & Trout Conservation UK, said: “We’re delighted to assist the work of the Trust in their ongoing electro fishing project assessing Tyne salmon and trout populations.

"We feel that this work is a positive step towards obtaining a fuller picture of the problems facing Tyne salmonids, and possible solutions."

Tyne Rivers Trust has been working to improve the River Tyne and its catchment since 2004.