Fishermen and owners of riverside land around the Derwent say the £50,000 they have already spent on erosion cutting measures is not the end of the story.

With over 20 km of riverbank targeted over the past four years, Derwent Owners’ Association is already looking to the next phase.

Working with Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme’s Rivers Corridor Group (RCG), action areas have been highlighted between Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake.

The news has been welcomed by BLRP manager, John Pinder, who said the work would have a significant impact on the mission to tackle sediment entering the lake.

“We must make sure riverbanks are stabilised so loose soil doesn’t end up in the water, as this increases sediments in the river and lake and harms fish spawning grounds.

“We are very grateful that this dedicated group has not only spent so much money and time helping us, but are committed to going the extra distance by continuing its support.”

Target areas between Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake have seen river bank work at locations where erosion is a problem. The spotlight is now being turned on the Glenderamackin river (pictured above) for priority action.

RCG and Derwent Owners’ chairman, Jack Abernethy, said tried and tested techniques would  again be used and the benefits would be both significant and long-lasting.

He explained: “In the past we’ve put up fences to keep grazing animals from sensitive riverbanks. We’ve also encouraged stock reduction, provided alternative drinking water supplies for animals, used natural solutions such as weaving live willow and even brought in Christmas trees and logs to shore up banks.

“Government grants are available for this work, but may only cover 80 per cent of costs. Derwent Owners’ has made up the difference.
“We are committed to continuing to improve riverbank habitat and the water quality in our rivers and lakes. Having clean rivers and a healthy Bassenthwaite Lake isn’t just good for fishermen, it benefits everyone.”

Abernethy explained that a schedule of further habitat improvement and riverbank maintenance work was being drawn up and discussions with farmers and landowners would continue.

“We’ve done well in a relatively short time, but there is still plenty of do. It’s about us all working together to look after our precious watercourses and surroundings,” he said.

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