Enviro News Asia, Devon — Berry Ponds, created in the 1970s on tenant farmer land owned by the Duchy, fell into disrepair during the Covid-19 pandemic. Members of the Exeter and District Angling Association undertook an extensive rehabilitation initiative to restore the three ponds, including desilting works and vegetation clearance.
On 11 February, a starter stock of 500 crucian carp and 500 tench was introduced to the ponds. The fish were reared at the Environment Agency’s Calverton Fish Farm in Nottingham. Rod licence revenue enables the Environment Agency to breed and supply fish to replenish water bodies affected by climate change, pollution, and other environmental pressures.
In addition, the Environment Agency awarded £4,000 to the angling association through its Fisheries Improvement Programme to fund the construction of four accessible fishing platforms, ensuring improved access for disabled anglers.
Mark Walker of the Exeter and District Angling Association stated that members were delighted to manage and restore the ponds, expressing appreciation for the consistent guidance and technical support provided by the local Environment Agency team. He noted that financial assistance from the Fisheries Improvement Fund and the provision of high-quality fish from Calverton significantly strengthened the project.
Nick Maye, fisheries officer at the Environment Agency, described the restoration as an excellent example of rod licence income being reinvested to enhance both angling opportunities and the wider aquatic habitat.
The association expects Berry Ponds to reopen to anglers next year.
The Fisheries Management Programme reinvests funds generated through rod licences to improve fish habitats, support angling clubs, expand public access to nature, and promote the long-term sustainability of fisheries across England amid changing climatic conditions. (*)
