In 2025 the National Barrier Mitigation Programme worked in collaboration with Loughs Agency to undertake a barrier mitigation project in the River Finn catchment.  The project involves removing the river barrier (see before photo) and replacing it with a new clear span bridge structure. 

The construction works are being undertaken by an external contractor, McHugh Bros Ltd, Ballybofey and involved working in-stream in an environmentally sensitive manner. The project will help to restore natural sediment transport, improve hydromorphology and enhance access to high quality spawning habitat for wild Atlantic Salmon. Ultimately, the work helps to support the conservation objectives of the River Finn SAC, which holds an important population of Atlantic Salmon and is monitored through fish counters, electrofishing surveys, and redd counts.

The long-term benefits for catchment condition and compliance with EU Water Framework and Habitats Directives made it a priority project within the programme.