Quantification of the Freshwater Salmon Habitat Asset in Ireland

This newly published report presents quantitative information on the extent of potential salmon producing habitat (river and lake) in Ireland. Individual rivers are identified and information on habitat quality (expressed through gradient) and the extent of anadromy in each is shown. The data are presented graphically in a suite of maps for each of the 17 different Fisheries Districts and in detailed tabular format. All of the habitat was quantified using a GIS based data model to determine the quantity of habitat available to migratory salmonids.

The extent of juvenile salmon production habitat impaired by poor water quality (as determined from EPA Q-value information) is also quantified.

For Ireland 261 discrete migratory salmon ‘Fishery systems’ were identified in this national study. 173 are classified as ‘salmon’ systems. This reports presents substantial quantities of data for all migratory salmonid systems including tables ranking salmon productive potential nationally. The River Suir has the greatest quantity of accessible fluvial habitat in the country comprising 7.8% of the national total.

Full citation:
McGinnity, P.,Gargan, P.,Roche, W., Mills, P. & McGarrigle, M. 2003. Quantification of the Freshwater Salmon Habitat Asset in Ireland using data interpreted in a GIS platform. Irish Freshwater Fisheries, Ecology and Management Series: Number 3, Central Fisheries Board, Dublin, Ireland.

Report costs €25. Payment may be made by credit card, cheque or postal order.

For further information or orders please contact:

Sandra Doyle,
Brown Trout in Ireland,
Inland Fisheries Ireland,
Swords Business Campus,
Swords, Co. Dublin,
Ireland.

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Tel: +353 (0)1 8842 612