Survey to gauge river salmon numbers

A survey is being launched to estimate the number of young salmon in Scottish rivers.

Between July and September, biologists assisted by volunteers will carry out Scotland’s first national electro-fishing survey to map out populations of the “king of fish”.

The method uses equipment with electricity flowing through it to capture the fish without injuring them.

Fish will be counted at more than 800 randomly selected sites across 27 regions.

The project – funded by the Scottish Government, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage – will provide an accurate estimate of numbers of young salmon and provide fisheries, trusts and boards with information to supplement extensive local surveys.