50,000 eels for species protection: stocking campaign started in Hamm!

50,000 eels for species protection: stocking campaign started in Hamm!

In Hamm it's “Eels in!” again: today 50,000 young eels were released into the Lippe in order to sustainably stabilize the stocks. This is the third occupation operation in this region. The event was organized by the Initiative for the Promotion of European Eels e.V. (IFEA/ESF) in collaboration with the State Fisheries Association of Westphalia and Lippe e.V. These young eels, also known as “farm eels”, are around 15 cm in size and weigh up to 10 grams. Their journey begins in northern France, where they are prepared for their return to their home waters in a certified breeding facility. According to wa.de, the project appears to be a long-term game plan, the fruits of which can only be harvested in 15 to 20 years.

The stocking campaign is not only an important step towards species protection, but also a measure that anglers are taking increasingly seriously. It is of utmost importance that the juvenile fish protect themselves from their natural predators and later decimate invasive species such as gobies and non-native crayfish. Support came from donations from the Lippeverband, the Sparkasse Hamm and various fishing clubs and fishing cooperatives. The total cost of this campaign was around 15,000 euros.

A problem called migratory fish

“The eels are used to difficulties,” says Mayor Marc Herter. The migratory fish face many human obstacles that make their way to the spawning grounds difficult. Herter is strongly committed to the demolition of the controversial weir in Werne-Stockum in order to make their way easier for the eels. A corresponding application has already been submitted to the Lippeverband and an examination procedure is currently underway at the Arnsberg district government.

Worldwide, the European eel is on the Red List of endangered species and various factors are leading to their decline: excessive fishing, hydroelectric power plants, changing habitats and even diseases are reducing the population. In 2023, the migration of eels to their spawning grounds in the Sargasso Sea was monitored via satellite in order to learn more about their lifestyle. In connection with this, Vattenfall has started a project that, among other things, documents the transport of more than 130,000 eels by “Eels on Wheels”. These eels travel up to 7,000 kilometers before they reach their spawning grounds.

Sustainability in view

In order to continue to help eel stocks, the European Data Collection Program (DCF) is being carried out. The focus here will be on quantifying stocks in German rivers, always supported by collaborations with other research institutions. The aim is to analyze organic pollutants, heavy metals and other pollution in order to derive effective management measures. Reliability is key when it comes to the survival of eels, and every step counts.

It remains to be seen how the stocks will develop, because the path to healthy fish abundance is long and complex. But with combined forces and the right approach, there is strong hope for a return of eels to local waters.