Restoration of River in Norway Benefits Wild Salmon
Lærdal, Norway – The restoration of Grøttekilen in the Lærdal River, with support from the Good Environmental Choice Environmental Fund, has led to improvements in the habitat for wild salmon. By removing sludge and soil and restoring a stream, a fishing area of 4,500 square meters has been created.
The restoration of the river Grøttekilen was initiated in October 2023 and completed in June 2024. It has established a new spawning and nursery area for fish, spanning approximately 4,500 square meters. By removing significant quantities of sludge and soil, and by restoring a stream that connects the main river to the wetland, the project has significantly improved conditions for fish survival and growth. This initiative was a collaborative effort between Becour AS and Østfold Energi AS, with additional support from the Norwegian research institute NORCE.
– We have created the conditions for increased biodiversity and a sustainable habitat for the wild salmon in Lærdalselva, says Synnøve Rubach, Head of Research and Innovation at Becour AS.
The restored Grøttekilen now offers great opportunities for salmon to spawn across multiple sites along the new stream. The project has also provided a safe environment for juvenile fish to thrive.
– To sustain habitats for fish and other species, we have employed various types of substrate at the riverbed to meet the distinct requirements of different species, explains Synnøve Rubach.
Budget and Future Prospects
The total project cost amounted to approximately SEK 2.45 million. 30 percent was funded 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 presented to evaluate the long-term effects of the project. This will ensure that Grøttekilen remains a vital environment for fish and other species in the Lærdalselva river.
