Over 1.100 species of migratory fish threatened
Migratory fish can travel thousands of kilometers throughout their lifetimes, upstream, downstream and even across oceans! But these amazing species are at risk. According to our Living Planet Index report, freshwater fish populations in Europe have declined by 93% since 1970 - the highest rate globally!The causes behind the problem
Several causes contribute to this ecological disaster such as modifications of hydrological flows, physical alterations of waterbodies, and hydropower installations. With more than 1 million barriers blocking European rivers, it is not surprising that fish currently face major threats to their reproductivity and life cycle.Global Swimways – a promising solution
With the initial support of the Cambridge conservation initiative,the Global Swimways Programme was created in 2019 with the goal of evaluating the potential ecological impact of the proliferation of dams on migratory fish species.
It was the first time that the term “swimways” was used (as an analogy to the already spread concept of “flyways”), initiating discussion on the topic of migratory fish routes.
The main activities of the project are:
- Mapping the world's migratory freshwater fishes
- Creating a tool for policymakers and river managers
(Check out the Freshwater Report Tool in IBAT!)
- Advocating for the conservation of migratory fishes
- Raising awareness of the values of migratory fishes and vulnerability to future infrastructure developments
Read the article on the Ecological Society of America or find the project on the the World Wildlife Fund website page.
At the European level, the European Swimways Programme is the regional implementation of the work carried out by Global Swimways. The Trans-European Swimways Network joins local and national NGOs, researchers, and governments to improve scientific knowledge, foster international cooperation, and accelerate the implementation of EU policies.
World Fish Migration Foundation was an initiator of this network and remains working closely with the project, which provides valuable input for dam removal has it delivers maps of the main migratory fish routes in Europe.
World Fish Migration Foundation was an initiator of this network and remains working closely with the project, which provides valuable input for dam removal has it delivers maps of the main migratory fish routes in Europe.
Where we are now and where we want to go
Currently, the Trans-European Swimways Network is working on a larger proposal to raise funds to fully develop Global Swimways for freshwater fishes and to strengthen policy tools, such as through the Convention for Migratory Species (CMS). Proposed work includes:- Filling current information gaps, ensuring all Swimways are mapped globally.
- Strategic planning to protect Swimways and migratory fish.
- Evaluation of additional criteria on socio-economic consideration.
- Continuing to raise awareness for this topic.
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