Anglers adopt stretch of river

Learmount’s Young Fishing Club is normally looking to land a big catch in the famed salmon river.

And when they meet next on Saturday, September 22, their aim will be no different, although the instead of game fish the target this time will be a hugeh haul of rubbish and recylcabes.

Annie Mullan, Community Engagement Officer, said: “This is the first group we are working with to adopt a stretch of the Faughan or streams flowing into the Faughan.

“We would love to hear from other groups in the Faughan Valley area who would be interested in looking after their stretch of river.

“We can cover travel, insurance, provide equipment and other support so all groups need is a willingness to make a difference.”

The club members and leaders will join forces with other volunteers from the Learmount Development group, Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership and Loughs Agency in order to undertake the cleanup.

This is part of an Adopt-a-Stream initiative where groups are encouraged to look after their stretch of the River Faughan and its tributaries.

The young people of Learmount and Park village will also learn some water quality monitoring techniques which they can use to ensure their section of river remains free of pollution.

The River Faughan which rises in Sawel close to Learmount and the village of Park, is an Area of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area for Conservation.

It has been given these protections as it is one of the best salmon rivers in Europe and is also a stronghold for otters, as well as a host of other wildlife.

For further information on the Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership please contact Annie Mullan, Community Engagement Officer. Tel: 028 7133 7498, email: [email protected] or visit www.faughanvalley.com