Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and Farming Connect have joined forces to remind landowners not to remove gravel from streams and rivers, following an increase in the number of incidents reported across Wales.
In-river works, such as gravel removal or alteration of a channel, can be an offence unless the work is carried out under an appropriate permit or consent.
These operations cause damage to wildlife, including aquatic invertebrates, fish spawning grounds and nesting birds.
It also risks spreading seeds/ fragments from invasive non-native species such as Japanese Knotweed to other locations and can result in damage to neighbouring property through increased erosion or deposition.
Removing gravel from rivers is only permitted under certain circumstances and where it is demonstrated to be absolutely necessary to do so. For example, to alleviate flood risk from nearby properties.
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Posted On: 28/05/2020