A GROUP of wildlife campaigners in Herefordshire is battling against the current to ensure the endangered European eel remains common to our waterways.

Eels are currently on the Red List of critically endangered species in the county, with a population 90% lower than it was in the 1970’s.

This is due to millions of baby eels, known as elvers, being caught and sold to foreign fish markets for a high price by international dealers.

But thanks to the Golden Valley Fish and Wildlife Association, 124,000 baby eels have been saved and re-integrated into local waters in the past four years.

Routine surveys of the area by the Environment Agency have confirmed that since the start of the project, there are now up to 11 times more eels in their natural habitat.

Growth has been exponential, but Ian McCulloch, project leader for the association described the work so far as “only a sticking-plaster”.

The group aims to reintegrate two million elvers back into the water by 2019.

Ultimately Mr McCulloch believes what is needed is for a complete ban on elver fishing, with all rivers in Herefordshire are still critically affected by this problem.

So far, pleas for this ban have been ignored, but there is an ongoing petition to make this a reality. Eel fishing is already banned in Ireland and Norway.

Over-fishing can have a severe impact on the environment. Eels are a main food source for otters, with the International Otter Survival Fund recognising the severity of the situation and previously donating to the cause.

Eels have a rich local history, and used to be a staple part of a local diet. They were even documented as a form of currency in the Doomsday book.

Association chairman Nick Longman said “We cannot stave off their extinction by ourselves. If you want to help us or get involved on your own rivers please get in touch and we can offer help and advice.”

The group is looking to restock next spring, with the help of local campaigners and a donation of £1000 from the Herefordshire Community Foundation.

Mr McCulloch says anyone in the county can touch with him for help and advice in starting their own projects to help.

For more information, or to get involved please visit goldenvalleyfishandwildlife.co.uk or show your support by signing the online petition.