United Utilities invest £5m to safeguard endangered eels in the River Dee

United Utilities is helping to protect endangered eels and elvers in the River Dee as part of a £5m project.

As part of the scheme – the first of its kind in Cheshire – the water company is installing new screens and pipework to prevent eels from being caught in equipment when water is abstracted from the river.

The new screening equipment will separate fish and eels from the water and safely return them to the river, allowing them to continue their migratory journey.

European eel populations have declined by more than 95% over the last 40 years, making them a critically endangered species. Eels begin life in the Sargasso Sea near Bermuda before migrating to Europe, where they settle and grow for up to 20 years before returning to the Sargasso Sea to spawn.

Rob Moore, Head of Water Services for United Utilities in Cheshire, said:

“European eels are an important part of the River Dee’s ecology, and this project will play a vital role in supporting their population.

“This work means we can continue providing world‑class drinking water for our customers while protecting the environment at the same time.

“We’re committed to supporting collective efforts to reverse the decline of eel populations in the River Dee and other rivers across the region.”

Last year, United Utilities completed a similar scheme in Caton, Lancashire, to protect eels and elvers in the River Lune. A further project has also been delivered in Cumbria, where an innovative system has been installed at Troutbeck to prevent wildlife being caught up in the water treatment process.