UK’s first FFI Siphon Fish Pass installed at Wissington
The Siphon Fish Ladder is an innovative fishway from the Netherlands, which can be applied to facilitate fish passage at any watercourse obstruction and structures…
Historically, water control structures such as weirs and pumping stations prevent a barrier to the natural migration of eels and elvers. Causing declining numbers over recent years. ACE has worked tirelessly with nationwide experts to develop a range of passage equipment to reduce the impact of the installation of our flow control equipment. In turn, this naturally lead to ACE being employed nationwide to advise and supply eel passes around existing and new structures.
Elvers have a natural instinct to seek out fresh water, having started life in the sea. When they encounter a barrier, they attempt to migrate upstream. For instance via wet grass, leaks in structures and other sources of fresh water. This has been hampered in recent years following improvements in seal designs on sluices, removal of vegetation and urbanisation. However, the installation of ACE eel passes can reduce this decline. By simulating wet grass and providing an attraction flow, elvers can find a safe route to continue their journey inland.
Our eel passes follow a fairly simple concept to use elver’s instincts to attract and promote safe passage:
Although the concept is simple, the delivery can be complex due to obstructions, traffic routes and existing services. a modular, proven concept, which allows the systems to be unobtrusive and work with minimal disruption is often used. Updates and modifications to the eel passes accommodate particular requirements to suit sites. Whether this includes provision to trap and monitor eels, provide public interaction facilities for education, or additional security to prevent vandalism. We can assist.
As part of the service, ACE will visit your site and carry out a full survey and appraisal of existing structures. Provide advice based on over 10 years of experience, drawing on best practice around the UK. Our design is then provided using 3d modelling software to clearly visualize the interface with the site. In addition, any safety or construction considerations that are required. All of which can assist with consent application.
Once designed, modern, robust materials make a pass that will remain reliable for many years, and easy to install, maintain and monitor safety. Above all provide an effective and reliable passage route for numerous elvers.
Where required, site management is provided, fully in line with CDM regulations, NICEIC installed electrical control panels, and all site equipment, in a full turnkey package.
To ensure reliability, a powered pass would usually be recommended using a pump to provide debris free water, at a controlled rate to keep the pass moist and attract eels to it. Therefore, making it effective during all conditions. We do understand however that some sites prevent this, due to remote access, or other factors which require alternative arrangements.
We offer:
In all cases, we are happy to accommodate special requirements, so please talk to us- to discuss your requirements, please contact us.