Loughs Agency, in collaboration with Enagh Seniors Group and volunteers from River Faughan Anglers, recently organised a tree-planting event at Teenaght, situated along the scenic banks of the River Faughan near Claudy.
Approximately 150 willow saplings supplied by Enagh Seniors Group and 1000 native broadleaf trees supplied by the Woodland Trust were successfully planted along the riverbanks. This collaborative effort will provide shade and prevent erosion, as well as bank stability and leaf litter for young fish. It will also foster biodiversity and bolster conservation efforts by creating new nature corridors along the riverbanks.
Loughs Agency Fisheries Inspector, Jason McCartney expressed his satisfaction in utilising the area for the saplings. He said: “In 2023, Loughs Agency staff completed nature restoration projects in the upper reaches of the River Faughan. This consisted of creating 1.1 km of new riparian buffer zones, improvements to 350 metres of bankside stabilisation, and enhancements to 450 metres of salmonid spawning habitat.
“Within the last year, Enagh Seniors Group raised around 150 willow seedlings that were ready to be planted, and, following discussions, it was decided that these saplings would benefit from being planted at the site in Teenaght, further enriching the local environment. We were pleased to witness the planting of not only the saplings but also an additional 1000 native broadleaf trees, which will help restore the natural habitat and improve the biodiversity value of the River Faughan and its surrounding areas.”
Dr Robert Murtland of the Enagh Seniors Group also expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “Enagh Seniors Group was motivated to contribute to this initiative, which not only enhances the protection of the River Faughan but also secures its long-term sustainability for future generations.
“This initiative demonstrates the achievable results through collaboration within grassroots initiatives. It also highlights the importance of cooperative partnerships among local stakeholder organisations, such as Enagh Seniors Group and the River Faughan Anglers, in working alongside Loughs Agency in the conservation and protection of this iconic natural resource.”
Sean McLaughlin from River Faughan Anglers also commented on the positive collaborative work undertaken: “River Faughan Anglers were delighted to be involved in this project. It goes to show what great work can be achieved when like-minded organisations work together.
“The River Faughan is our home, and this project on the riverbank ties in perfectly with the in-river work carried out to maintain the Faughan as a thriving river for both salmon and trout for many years to come.”
