21 June 2016

Southampton University raises awareness for fish

The University of Southampton celebrated World Fish Migration Day (WFMD) at two events last month and also raised money for salmon research at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT). WFMD Pic 1

 Despite wet and windy weather on 21 May, it didn’t stop the group of researchers and students from setting up an information stand at Bitterne Riverside Park to offer the public the opportunity to find out more about the environmental impacts on fish, the University’s current research and also the GWCT salmon appeal.

 ‘Environmental Rock’ was the second event on 30 May.  The eco-friendly family day out was held at the Hobbit Pub in Portswood and was a great success. Good weather drew the crowds and the group promoted the work being undertaken by the International Centre for Ecohydraulics Research (ICER), including all of its fish research.   They also took the chance to further promote WFMD, with their stall being one of a number promoting environmental sustainability and local conservation projects. 

 There was an opportunity for people to ask questions of the Southampton University students, and children were able to take part in Play-Doh and colouring-in activities. There was also a competition to ’Guess the number of fish sweets in the jar’, which attracted many entries.

 One of the University’s students assisting in the running of both events was Helen Currie, who is studying for a PhD in Sustainable Infrastructure Systems. She says: “Although the first day was slightly disappointing due to the weather, the second day was more successful.  Over the two days we raised money for the GWCT Salmon Appeal and were also able to talk to members of the public about our fish research.”

The GWCT’s Salmon Appeal supports research into how to reverse the decline in Atlantic Salmon in our rivers across the county.  You can donate online quickly and easily here.

For information on ICER work please visit www.icer.soton.ac.uk


Notes to editors

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.

For information, contact:
Eleanor Williams
Telephone: 07592 025476
Email: press@gwct.org.uk