River restoration in Norway benefits wild salmon
Lærdal, Norway – The restoration of Grøttekilen in the Lærdal River, supported by the Good Environmental Choice Environmental Fund, has led to improvements in the habitat for wild salmon. By removing silt and soil and restoring a stream, a fish habitat of 4,500 square meters has been created.
The restoration of Grøttekilen, which began in October 2023 and was completed in June 2024, has resulted in a new spawning and nursery area for fish of approximately 4,500 square meters. By removing large amounts of silt and soil, and by restoring a stream that connects the main river to the bay, the conditions for fish survival and growth have been significantly improved. The project was a collaboration between Becour AS and Østfold Energi AS, and also received support from the Norwegian research institute NORCE.
— We have created the conditions for increased biodiversity and a sustainable habitat for wild salmon in the Lærdal River, says Synnøve Rubach, Head of Research and Innovation at Becour AS.
The restored Grøttekilen now provides excellent opportunities for salmon to spawn in several places along the new stream. The project has also created a safe environment for juvenile fish to grow.
— To maintain habitats for fish and other species, the project has used various types of substrate to meet the needs of different species, explains Synnøve Rubach.
Budget and outlook
The actual costs amounted to approximately NOK 2.45 million, of which 30 percent was financed by the Good Environmental Choice Environmental Fund.
The Grøttekilen project has successfully restored and preserved important aquatic environments in Norway. Follow-up plans have been developed to evaluate the project's long-term effects, ensuring that Grøttekilen remains a crucial habitat for fish and other species in the Lærdal River.
