Water Wheel March 2022: Ecological Infrastructure

Abstract

ECOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE (Re)connecting fish, rivers and people in the Kruger National Park Globally, migratory freshwater fish have been declining since 1970 throughout their distribution ranges at a staggering rate. Many species are now exposed to threats such as habitat change, climate change and pollution. A recent study found that populations of migratory freshwater fish have declined by 76% globally since 1970, with an even greater decline in Europe: a staggering 94%. Experts indicate that this could be directly attributed to river fragmentation. Human-made impoundments are also creating problems. Artificial barriers, like dams and weirs, are one of the biggest threats to river ecosystems. They stop the natural flow of sediments and prevent migratory fishes from travelling up-or downstream to complete their lifecycles. Many of these concrete and earth barriers that block fish migration routes were constructed in the last century and are nearing the end of their concession, with increasing calls for their removal.

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