News

NRW has released latest stock assessments for salmon and sea trout in Wales

Published

2 years ago

July 25, 2022

NATURAL RESOURCES WALES ha this week July 25 published the 2021 salmon stock assessments for 23 principal salmon rivers in Wales (including 3 cross-border rivers) based upon the latest available data.

Salmon and sea trout (sewin) are both iconic species in Wales, requiring high quality freshwater habitats to thrive and are a key indicator of the environmental quality of river catchments, while also providing important opportunities for healthy and valuable recreation.

In 2021 Wales recorded the lowest catches of both salmon and sea trout since consistent records began in 1970s.

Ben Wilson, Principal Fisheries Officer for NRW, said: “This represents the worst level of salmon and sea trout stock performance ever recorded in Wales and is of major concern indicating that many stocks are now in serious trouble and at risk of failing to maintain sustainable populations in the future.

“This is a clear indication that we must redouble our efforts to tackles the decline in fish numbers.

“These declines are replicated in most other countries across the North Atlantic distribution of salmon and their European range, where populations have declined over the past few decades.

“This has been most evident for salmon, but recently a sharp decline in Welsh sea trout stocks has also occurred particularly in south and south west Wales.”

The full stock assessment results have been published in the annual salmon stock assessment report for England and Wales that has been co-authored with Cefas and the Environment Agency and can be found here :-

Assessment of Salmon Stocks and Fisheries in England and Wales in 2021 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Assessment of Salmon Stocks and Fisheries in England and Wales: Background Report 2021 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Wales has 23 principal salmon river catchments for which stock assessments are undertaken and reported upon annually. The results from the latest assessment have shown that 91%, 21 salmon rivers in Wales are now categorised as being At Risk, and 9% Probably at Risk. No rivers were categorised Not at Risk or Probably Not at Risk.

In addition, Wales has 33 main sea trout rivers – No rivers classed as ‘Not at Risk’ , four rivers (12%) as Probably Not at Risk , eight rivers (24%) as Probably at Risk and 21 rivers (64%) as At Risk.

Ben added: “In 2020 we introduced Catch and Release byelaws to help protect for salmon and sea trout across Wales, and we have seen anglers and netters react positively to these. Unfortunately, there is no single ‘magic’ solution to protect and re-build vulnerable stocks and we must continue to work on a wide range of initiatives to make our rivers healthier and safer for salmon and sea trout.

“We need to improve river water quality and stop acute and diffuse agricultural pollution, as well as tackling Water Industry incidents. We must also remove barriers to migration and protect stocks from unsustainable predation.

“Given the further risk from climate change ensuring that our rivers have clean, cool water to support salmon and trout is essential

“Many partners have important roles to play when stocks are at such low levels and any additions to the wild spawning stocks in our rivers are particularly valuable when stocks are at such low levels.”

NRW has an ongoing river restoration programme to improve habitats and remove barriers ensuring fish have safe passage to spawning grounds and is working with stakeholders and partners on implementing an agreed revised policy approach regarding fish eating birds.”

In 2020, NRW published the Natural Resources Wales / Salmon and sea trout plan of action 2020

The plan set out nine key themes in tackling the salmonid emergency :

Evidence,
Managing exploitation,
Protecting stocks through effective enforcement,
Tackling physical habitat constraints in the freshwater environment,
Safeguarding water quality and quantity,
Addressing land management, and associated risks to water quality,
Addressing predation on salmonids: fish-eating birds and seals,
Understanding marine pressures,
Understanding new and emerging potential pressures.

The measures for the management of our fisheries and protection and restoration of fisheries habitat. developed by the Plan of Action, along with the England and Wales NASCO “Implementation Plan” for 2019-24, will be taken over five year periods

Actions have included reducing exploitation of salmon by both net and rod fisheries. Since 2020 all salmon caught in Wales must now be released. Rod fisheries have achieved a release rate across Wales of some 86% of sea trout through both voluntary and mandatory controls.

Ben added: “The continued decline in salmon and sewin stock numbers means that every fish that reaches its spawning ground or is returned safely to the water after being caught could contribute to improving fish populations and even relatively small numbers of fish are crucial to recover stocks in as short as time as possible.

“Moving forward we will continue to work closely with all those for whom the health our rivers, fish stocks and fisheries are important, to ensure salmon once again thrive in our rivers.”

News

Milford Haven RFC celebrates Mini’s Section Presentation

Published

6 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Herald Sport

MILFORD HAVEN RFC once again showcased its commitment to nurturing young talent as it celebrated its Mini’s Section Presentation on Sunday (May 5). The event, held with much enthusiasm, marked a significant moment for the club, reinforcing its dedication to the development of rugby at all levels.

The Mini’s section, a cornerstone of the club’s community engagement, witnessed a remarkable turnout, a testament to its growing popularity year by year. The event not only recognised the efforts of the young players but also extended gratitude to the invaluable contributions of coaches, parents, and supporters, whose unwavering support is instrumental in shaping the future of rugby in Milford Haven.

A special acknowledgment was reserved for Abbo, Paula, and Leanne, whose steadfast support has been pivotal in nurturing the Mini’s section, ensuring its success and growth. Their dedication and tireless efforts have played a significant role in fostering a nurturing environment for the young athletes to thrive.

The presence of the 1st Team Club Captain, Zac, and Vice Captain, Jimmy, added a touch of prestige to the occasion. Their attendance and active participation in presenting trophies to the Mini Mariners underscored the club’s ethos of unity and inclusivity across all age groups. Such gestures not only inspire the budding players but also instil a sense of belonging and pride in the larger Milford Haven RFC community.

In his remarks, Zac emphasised the importance of fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within the club, where every member, regardless of age or experience, feels valued and supported. Such values lie at the heart of Milford Haven RFC, reinforcing its status as not just a rugby club but a tight-knit community.

As the event concluded, echoes of “Up the Mighty Mariners” reverberated through the grounds, encapsulating the spirit of determination and unity that defines Milford Haven RFC. With the Mini’s section flourishing and the club’s unwavering commitment to its development, the future of rugby in Milford Haven looks brighter than ever.

With each passing year, Milford Haven RFC continues to uphold its legacy as a nurturing ground for young talent, a beacon of sporting excellence, and a source of pride for the entire community.

As the red and white colours of the Mighty Mariners continue to soar high, so too does the spirit of camaraderie and passion that binds the club together, ensuring its continued success on and off the field.

News

Milford Haven clinches thrilling victory in KO Cup Plate Final

Published

6 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Tom Sinclair

IN a gripping showdown at Heywood Lane, Tenby on Wednesday (May 1), Milford Haven emerged victorious in the 2024 KO Cup Plate Final, edging past a resilient Whitland side by a narrow margin of 24-21.

The clash, witnessed by a fervent crowd, showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, culminating in a nail-biting finish that saw Milford Haven secure their first-ever Plate trophy in the club’s history.

The Mariners took an early lead through a penalty courtesy of winger James Trueman, swiftly countered by Whitland’s full back Geraint Jones. However, Milford surged ahead with the first try of the match, as No 8 Dewi Williams powered over the line from close range, with Trueman adding the extras.

Despite Whitland’s efforts to claw back into contention with two penalties, reducing the halftime deficit to a single point, Milford Haven remained composed. The second half witnessed a relentless display from the Mariners, capitalizing on their dominant pack to create scoring opportunities.

James Trueman showcased his prowess with a spectacular try, expertly set up by swift passing from James Williams and Dan Jenkins. Trueman’s accurate kicking extended Milford’s lead further, before Scott Buirds crashed over for their third try, sealing a commanding advantage.

Yet, Whitland refused to concede defeat, launching a spirited comeback with tries from Owyn Griffiths and Dom Davies. Despite their valiant efforts, Whitland fell short in their pursuit of victory, with a crucial penalty attempt rebounding off the post in the dying moments.

Milford Haven’s Ollie Rothero was rightfully awarded the ‘man of the match’ accolade for his composed performance, epitomizing the team’s resilience throughout the contest. Rothero’s versatility and steadiness in the No 15 shirt proved instrumental in Milford’s triumph, despite stiff competition from Trueman’s impressive place-kicking and memorable try.

In the end, Milford Haven emerged as worthy victors, their victory a testament to their tenacity and unity on the field. As the final whistle blew, the Mariners celebrated a hard-fought triumph, etching their names in the annals of KO Cup Plate history.

The club said after the match on their Facebook page: “All the players, coaching team and committee would like to thank everyone that came over to Tenby to support the boys tonight. It really meant a lot to us as a club and no doubt the town!”

Line-ups:

Milford Haven: Ollie Rothero, Robbie Jones, James Williams, Dan Jenkins, Jamie Trueman, Efan Morgan, Dan McClelland, Aaron Mayne, Luke Ryan, Jimmy Buirds, Jay Goodall, Zac Davies (Capt), Ryan Mansell, Ieuan Davies, Dewi Williams. Replacements: Dai. Sweeny, Ben Jenkins, Ben Groves, Scott Buirds, Ethan Aldred, Lee Riley, Dean McSparron.

Whitland: Geraint Jones, Morgan Lewis, Jamie Goldsworthy, Dom Davies, Owyn Griffiths, Jonathan Thomas, Trystan Rees, Dafydd Walters, Marc Jones, Trystan Bowen, Benjamin Kirk, Dan Bennett, Lewis Tingay, Cian Evans, Zac France-Miller. Replacements: Ceiron Evans, Charlie Watson, Jack Worthing, Thomas Iraia, Geraint McCoan.

News

Goodwick 2nds clinch Division 3 Cup after dramatic penalty shootout

Published

7 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Herald Sport

IN a gripping showdown at Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium on Friday (May 3), Goodwick United 2nds emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against Solva in the 2024 Division 3 Cup Final. The match, which ended 1-1 after normal time, saw Goodwick triumph 7-6 on penalties, securing the coveted cup in a marathon of tension and drama.

The game began at a frantic pace, with both sides showcasing their determination from the outset. Solva’s Robbie Jenkins proved to be a constant threat, testing Goodwick keeper Joe Docker early on. However, neither team could break the deadlock in the first half, with chances at both ends going begging.

As the match progressed, the intensity only heightened, with tackles flying in as both teams fought for supremacy. It was Solva who struck first blood, with Dan Bryce converting a penalty to put his team ahead with just 19 minutes remaining. But Goodwick refused to be beaten, and Kieran Price leveled the scores late on with a well-taken volley, sending the game into extra time.

Extra time saw no let-up in the action, with both sides pushing for a winner. However, it was Solva who found themselves reduced to ten men after Morgan Elliott was sent off. With neither team able to find a breakthrough, the match was ultimately decided by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

In a tense shootout that went to sudden death, it was Goodwick who held their nerve, with Haydn Smith scoring the decisive spot-kick to clinch victory for his team. The celebrations that followed were a testament to the resilience and determination of Chris Morris’s side, who battled through injuries and adversity to claim the title.

Reflecting on his team’s triumph, Morris expressed his pride in his players, praising their character and resilience in the face of adversity. For Solva, it was a bitter disappointment, but they can take pride in their valiant effort throughout the match.

As the final whistle blew, it was Goodwick United 2nds who emerged as the worthy winners, etching their names into the annals of the Manderwood Pembrokeshire Football League’s Division 3 Cup history.

Line-ups:

Solva: Luke Phillips, Luke Mason, Harry Elliott, Morgan Elliott, Kieran Price, Ryan Thomas, Finn Isles, Sam Price, Robert Jenkins, Josh Bland (Captain), Lucas Price. Substitutes: Craig Challonder, Billy Clift, Albie Burden, Daniel Rees, Francis John-Duarte.

Goodwick United 2nds: Joe Docker, Tyler Morris, Iwan James, Haydn Smith, Kyle Smith (Captain), Joshua Wellan, Seamus Drake, Niall Kinsella, Keegan Summers, Gary Reynolds, Ethan Priestley. Substitutes: Goncalo Rocha, Alex O’Sullivan, Daniel Bryce, Kieran O’Brien, Frankie Pearce.

Match Officials:

Referee: Alan Boswell.

Assistants: Chris Stapleton & Barry Evans.

Fourth Official: Richard Gwyther.

Photo: Ben Rendell/Facebook