Early February saw volunteers from the Thames Anglers Conservancy along with West Thames Environment Agency fisheries officer out for the annual Penton Hook clearance day.
The task of the day was to clear the some of the overhanging brambles which removes light from the spawning channel and remove and blockages to the flow. The work was timed to ensure that we would not disturb any nesting birds and prior to fish spawning.
Clearing debris from the middle section
The 'X' factor but no auditions needed for experienced TAC volunteers
Cold day but wrapped up warm against the elements
One area had a percentage of the overhead canopy removed to increase light and received a selection of marginal plants. Theses plants will act as cover for the juvenile fish and encourage invertebrate life.
Bankside margins being prepared for planting
The plants ready to go in
We await springtime
Tea break
Thanks to everyone who turned up and made the day such a success