This project is funded by Local Nature Partnerships in partnership with Cyngor Ynys Mon, Cyngor Gwynedd and
Welsh Government
discover nature on your doorstep
Create immersive underwater nature trails in the Menai Strait and nearby rivers to showcase local aquatic life.
Train and certify community members in snorkeling, upskilling volunteers and provide opportunities to the local people.
Offer guided snorkeling sessions to educate locals and tourists on how to collect valuable conservation data on endangered and non native species.
Improve water quality and habitats Restore river ecosystems by improving in-river habitats, improving water quality through nature-based solutions like riparian planting, and cattle exclusion.
the project goals.
the importance of swimways
Swimways are natural migration routes used by aquatic species, such as fish, amphibians, and other water-dwelling organisms, to travel between different habitats. These routes are essential for species that rely on both freshwater and marine environments to complete their life cycles. Many species of fish migrate to specific breeding grounds, feed in different areas, and seek safer habitats depending on the stage of their life. Swimways are critical in facilitating these transitions and ensuring the survival of these species.
the issues facing fish
In Wales migratory fish species are facing significant challenges. A stark population decline has been observed, with migratory fish populations in the UK experiencing an 81% collapse between 1970 and 2020.
Our Swimways project attempts to tackle some of these issues.
Habitat Loss: Degradation of river habitats due to pollution, construction, and other human activities disrupts the natural migratory routes of fish species, making it challenging for species like salmon and trout to reach their spawning grounds.
Man-Made Barriers: Dams, weirs, and other structures in rivers act as physical obstacles, preventing migratory fish from traveling upstream or downstream as needed for their life cycles.
Climate Change: Altered water temperatures, flow patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events impact the migratory patterns and survival of fish populations.
Loss of Human Connection to Nature: As people become more disconnected from natural environments, there is less awareness and motivation to protect and restore vital ecosystems, leading to neglect and further degradation of habitats essential for migratory fish.
Water Quality: Agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and untreated sewage introduce harmful pollutants into rivers, degrading water quality and creating hostile environments for migratory fish.
As part of our Swimways project extensive river restoration works are being carried out to protect and improve habitat for migratory fish.
River restoration is vitally important. Through simple actions like fencing livestock out, creating riparian buffer zones, and planting native trees we can significantly improve the health of our aquatic ecosystems.
Additionally, removing barriers such as weirs by notching or modifying them is crucial for restoring natural fish migration routes. These changes allow species like salmon and trout to access upstream spawning and feeding habitats, ensuring healthier fish populations and contributing to the overall biodiversity of our river systems.
River restoration
community
The success of our environmental initiatives hinge on the active involvement of the community. Helping local residents, educators, and students establish strong connections to nature is of the utmost importance if we are to see improvements in the health of our waterways. By participating in these efforts, the community not only contributes to the scientific understanding of their local ecosystems but also takes ownership of sustainable solutions to protect and improve their water bodies.
training
Through the creation of our North Wales Rivers Trust BSAC Snorkel Club we have been able to provide opportunities to explore and survey our rivers in a new way.
This initiative offers a fantastic range of opportunities for the community. By providing training courses for all skill levels, from basic skills courses to underwater surveying courses and registered snorkel guides, we empower individuals to explore the underwater world of our rivers safely and confidently.
The snorkel club promotes environmental awareness by encouraging people to engage directly with river ecosystems. Participants not only learn valuable snorkeling skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the aquatic life and habitats they are helping to protect. It fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for conservation, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
“providing volunteers with the opportunity to explore the world beneath the water has been integral to strengthening nature connection”
— Oisin Lowe-Sellers , Senior Community Engagement Officer
work so far…
phase one
Community surveys
Our dedicated group of community volunteers undertook surveys of the Afon Braint. Using sweep nets to look at terrestrial invertebrates and bathyscapes to access the river bed. The reports created from these surveys help to inform restoration works and provide baseline data for measuring the impact of restoration works.
Riparian Habitat Schemes
In winter 2024, NWRT completed two riparian habitat schemes on the Afon Braint, a key river for brown and sea trout, both UK Priority Species. To address concerns about nutrient and soil run-off from agricultural activities, we installed 350 meters of stock fencing to prevent around 300 sheep and 60 cattle from entering the river and eroding its banks. A 350-meter riparian buffer zone (3–5 meters wide) was created, and 180 native trees were planted. These zones help intercept run-off, stabilize banks, provide shade and cover for trout, and increase terrestrial invertebrates—key to trout diets. Two drinking troughs were also installed, reducing livestock pressure on the river.
snorkel club
We established our own BSAC Snorkel Club, offering members free courses and training opportunities. The basic skills courses have helped volunteers refine their abilities, while underwater surveying courses have equipped them to conduct several important surveys within the catchment. These initiatives have strengthened our capacity to monitor aquatic environments and contribute valuable data.
smart river hub
Volunteers received specialised training from WildFish on collecting invertebrate data using the kick-sampling method. Baseline data on invertebrate populations has already been collected from five key locations within the catchment, offering valuable insights into water quality. Moving forward, River Hub volunteers will continue sampling twice a year, helping to build a robust and reliable dataset that will deepen our understanding of river health and track long-term environmental changes.
Phase 2
Guided Snorkel Sessions
The team have been running guided snorkel sessions both in freshwater and marine places of interest. Surveys have been conducted of non native fish such as perch as well species identification sessions on migratory fish.
Habitat Restoration
We installed 1,200 meters of stock fencing to prevent around 500 sheep and 20 cattle from entering the river and damaging the banks. Approximately 1.5 hectares of riparian woodland were created, with 850 native deciduous trees planted. A derelict bridge was repaired, allowing the closure of the ford to further protect the river. Additionally, an SPS solar water pump and five new drinking troughs were installed, providing an alternative water source for livestock.
Check back soon for more updates!
