Allis shad return: 50,000 larvae in the Rhine for biodiversity!

Allis shad return: 50,000 larvae in the Rhine for biodiversity!

Today a special event took place on the banks of the Rhine in Cologne. North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate set a strong example for biodiversity. Under the leadership of Minister Silke Gorißen from North Rhine-Westphalia and State Secretaries Daniel Köfer from Hesse and Erwin Manz from Rhineland-Palatinate, around 50,000 allis shad larvae were released into the Rhine. This is happening as part of a major project to reintroduce a once widespread fish species.

The allis shad larvae, which are considered an important migratory fish species, have declined sharply in population over the years. The main causes are water pollution, migration barriers and overfishing, which robbed the shad of its former home in the Rhine. This year the goal is to release a total of up to 1.5 million of these larvae in various places in the Rhine and its tributaries in order to strengthen the populations. The project is supported by several renowned partners, including the Baden-Württemberg State Fishing Association, the Hessian Fishermen Association, the Rhine Fishing Cooperative NRW, Sportvisserij Nederland, and the Dohle Foundation. Partners from Switzerland and France are also on board, which underlines the international character of the project.

School classes bring a breath of fresh air

The participation of two school classes from Cologne-Poll in the campaign was particularly pleasing. “It is important that the young generation develops an awareness of protecting biodiversity,” said a teacher who accompanied the children on their mission. In addition to the practical part, the students also had the opportunity to learn more about the importance of the shad and its habitat.

The event took place at the Poller Fischerhaus at Weidenweg 46, where numerous experts from the Rhine Fishing Cooperative NRW and other fishing associations were available to answer questions and explain the project. The organizers recommended bringing rubber boots, which made the practical experience of releasing the larvae much easier.

A step in the right direction

This campaign not only takes an important step towards returning the shad to the Rhine, but also teaches citizens and especially children the importance of intact nature. Environmental and nature conservation are issues that affect us all - and if even the youngest ones are involved in the design and protection of their environment, then there is really something going on!

A great deal of interest was already registered in advance for the interview and photo opportunities during the event, which shows how much the project moves people. The release of the allis shad larvae not only symbolizes the positive development of our waters, but also stimulates thought: Everyone can make a small contribution to preserving our natural resources.

For more information about this project and its development, read more at Tixio, State of North Rhine-Westphalia and City News.