Eel passage improvements at Cloves Bridge Pumping Station
As part of implementation of the Water Framework Directive, Cloves Bridge Pumping station was highlighted by the Environment Agency as in need of passage facilities…
Pumping stations and intakes are traditionally an ideal location for fish and eels to take refuge. However, they quickly become lethal the intakes are operating.
ACE and Fish Flow Innovations, based in the Netherlands provide a range of equipment to prevent injury to fish. This is either in the form of Strobe light technology to encourage the fish to move away from the intake or by using fish friendly pump technology.
Fish and eels take refuge, particularly in dark, covered areas. With the sudden introduction of bright light acts as a fish deterrent and causes them to leave the area. With an FFI Strobe system, a wall of bright flashing light is created to do just that. The strobes have been specially designed to be ultra-bright. While still using low energy LED’s with lenses to intensify the light. They are both effective and cheap to run.
The systems are designed to remain clean even in river environments. Automatic cleaning systems and lifting equipment to allow simple inspection can be provided. Even when used in turbid water, they diffuse the light effectively and provide a suitable fish deterrent. Testing in the Netherlands showed 10x fewer eels approaching Ijmuiden Pumping station following installation in 2011.
To discuss your requirements, please contact us.