Fisheries Science & Management
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Delivering comprehensive, high quality fisheries science & management since 1987, covering salmonid, coarse and marine fish
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Scientifically robust, statistically-based survey design; routine & bespoke surveys using electric-fishing, netting & hydroacoustic techniques
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Regular sampling & monitoring to assist conservation of Annex II fish species including Atlantic salmon, all three lamprey species, Arctic char, spined loach & bullhead
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Internationally renowned expertise in ecology of larval & juvenile fish
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Fish entrainment/impingement studies for water intakes
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Extensive research & development portfolio
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APEM experts have driven national & European fisheries policy
What can we offer?
Our substantial grounding in fisheries science has been forged over 20 years by a team of nationally recognised fisheries experts.
APEM scientists lead the field in providing a dedicated, professional electric fishing service for public and private sectors. Our operators are all certified in the use of electric fishing equipment in line with the Environment Agency's Code of Practice, and trained above and beyond agency standards. APEM pioneered the use of electric fishing in enclosures to provide fully quantitative population estimates for a range of conservation species.
APEM undertakes low flows studies and environmental impact assessments all over the UK. We also conduct sampling in estuarine and offshore waters using a variety of methods including scientific and commercial fish trawls. In addition, our scientists have considerable practical experience in fish entrainment monitoring and water intake and outfall screening.
An important element of our work is the assessment of fish stocks and disease. We are regularly called upon to rescue and relocate vast numbers of fish in the event of pollution incidents. APEM scientists are licensed to transport fish and are well placed to offer restocking advice.
We offer significant capabilities in the study of larval fish and their environmental requirements during early development. Larval fish are excellent indicators of water quality and the availability of specific habiatat types. Our studies provide and early indication of spawning and recruitment success, and how the effects of habitat manipulation of engineering works can impact upon these processes. The services we are able to offer include survey design, identification audits, dietary analysis and the production of illustrated identification keys.
Hydroacoustics is another highly advantageous tool for fishery survey. We use state of the art echosounding equipment and GIS tools to assess a variety of aquatic habitats. The combination of novel monitoring approaches and the use of sonar in ecologically sensitive habitats ensures we can provide accurate data for rare species in previously uncharted habitats.
A significant part of our role as fisheries scientists is providing expert witness testimony in court cases and public inquiries. We can also advise on the best management options for commercial and residential developments and are happy to assist in small-scale projects impacting angling societies. Our nationally recognised salmonid experts have carried out hundreds of migratory fish assignments and produced numerous publications and guidance documents. Our innovation in coarse fish biology has included studies in severely polluted waters such as the Manchester Ship Canal, where we have carried out long-term assessments of fish movements, productivity and gender abnormality.
Why choose APEM?
APEM is a science-based consultancy, working exclusively in the realm of Aquatic Science for over 20 years. We operate UK-wide, providing a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the monitoring and management of aquatic ecosystems. Our scientists are recognised experts in their diverse and specialist fields. Our teams work to exacting standards and are committed to providing a professional, client-focused service.
We are renowned for our high calibre work in fisheries science and management and have an extensive research and development background. We have supported numerous fisheries programmes with the Environment Agency, conservation bodies and private water companies. We also work collaboratively with universities and academic institutions.
Whether we're conducting one-off studies or monitoring fisheries on an on-going basis, we operate to the highest scientific standards.
Who are our clients?
We work with a range of organisations including:
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Environment Agency & other government bodies
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Water & power companies
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British Waterways
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Natural England
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Scottish Natural Heritage
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Local authorities
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Legal firms
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Planners & developers
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Consulting engineers
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Environmental consultancies
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Government & parliamentary review groups
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Private fisheries
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Countryside Council for Wales
Key Projects
Restoration-Riverine Salmon Habitats
River Dee Fish Entrainment Study
Mersey Estuary Fisheries Surveys
Juvenile Shad Behavioural Trials
Adult Salmonid Migration/Flow Studies
Salmon Habitat Improvements
National Dock Developments
Large-Scale Power StationsLarge-Scale Power Stations
