Our rivers are suffering from the effects of pollution, flooding, loss of habitat and climate change. The populations of many key aquatic species have declined significantly over the last 30 years. The presence and prevalence of aquatic species is a direct indicator of the health of a river. However there is currently little detailed information on the presence of aquatic species in the Lune. It is hence difficult to determine where we should focus our efforts to protect or improve the rivers.

We will use a variety of different survey methods to look at the presence and prevalence of some key aquatic species particularly Salmon, Trout, Eel and Crayfish. This will give us detailed, local level information on where key species are plentiful and where they are not doing so well. We will be able to produce scientifically robust information on the local presence of key aquatic species, and to update official national records on the presence of the rare and protected White Clawed Crayfish.