Every year, in autumn and winter, brown trout enter their spawning season — a crucial stage in the life cycle of this valuable fish species. Spawning takes place in rivers and streams across Ivano-Frankivsk, Zakarpattia, Lviv, and Chernivtsi regions, where fishing is strictly prohibited during this period to protect aquatic biodiversity.
To preserve and restore brown trout populations, the Verkhovynskyi National Nature Park has intensified its conservation measures. This year, within the White Cheremosh River Basin in Ukraine, more than 20 trout-friendly drops have been constructed using tree trunks and natural stone. These special cascades help fish overcome currents, migrate to spawning areas, and successfully reproduce. The works were carried out within the framework of the COOP4SAFE project.
These structures have significant ecological value as they:
• enrich the water with oxygen and improve hydrodynamic conditions;
• create natural shelters for fish;
• facilitate migration and natural reproduction of trout;
• prevent bank erosion and stabilize the river’s hydrological regime.
“Trout drops are an example of active water ecosystem management that combines a nature-based approach with practical benefits for restoring local fish populations,” note the experts from the Verkhovynskyi National Nature Park.
The Park’s team is implementing a range of measures to ensure safe spawning conditions:
• Construction of trout drops in key areas to support migration and reproduction;
• Protection of habitats and migration routes, along with maintenance of natural spawning grounds;
• Regular patrolling of water bodies to enforce the ban on fishing and prevent harmful activities;
• Increased surveillance during weekends and holidays by park rangers;
• Monitoring of brown trout populations on spawning sites;
• Awareness campaigns among local residents and tourists to encourage compliance with environmental protection rules and responsible behavior near rivers.
This coordinated effort helps safeguard the future of brown trout populations and contributes to the long-term ecological resilience of the Carpathian river systems.
Photos: ©Yaroslav Zelenchuk
