A new pilot project has been launched on the River Derg to explore how in-river monitoring technology could support the identification of poor water-quality events.

The project brings together the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), the Loughs Agency and the Foyle Association of Salmon and Trout Anglers, known as FASTA.

The pilot project will examine how continuous monitoring technology can help identify short-duration water-quality events and will use monitoring equipment capable of recording parameters including temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH and turbidity.

The River Derg has been selected because of its ecological importance and its role as a source of drinking water. The River Derg and Mourne River water bodies have also experienced a series of pollution incidents.

Environment minister Andrew Muir said: "Protecting and improving water quality remains a key priority for my department. The River Derg is an important ecological asset and a vital source of drinking water, and it is essential that we continue to enhance our understanding of the pressures affecting it.

“This innovative pilot project demonstrates the value of partnership working between the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Loughs Agency and the Foyle Association of Salmon and Trout Anglers. By using continuous in-river monitoring technology, we will strengthen our evidence base and explore new ways of identifying and responding to water quality issues.

“Through working together and embracing innovation, we can better protect our rivers, support biodiversity, safeguard drinking water resources and help deliver a healthier water environment for local communities and future generations."

Seamus Cullinan, Director of Conservation and Protection at Loughs Agency, said: “The River Derg is an important waterway for Atlantic salmon and trout, and it is vital that we protect it for future generations. Through our engagement with FASTA, Loughs Agency is committed to addressing water quality concerns and tackling the issues contributing to them. We greatly value the cooperation with FASTA, DAERA and other stakeholders to safeguard the river.”

Mr. David Nelson, Secretary of the Foyle Association of Salmon and Trout Anglers, said: “FASTA Chairperson, Mr Francis Curran extends his gratitude to Minister Muir for his attention, and support of the River Derg pollution project.

“We also thank our partners, the Loughs Agency and DAERA, who successfully collaborated to secure technical solutions following FASTA discussions.

“FASTA acknowledge and thank the contribution of the local business and farming community in County Tyrone during consultation.

"Academic research delivered by Dr Vincent Lusby QUB, reinforced our team priorities. The Chairman of Ballisodare Anglers Co Sligo, Mr Gerry Merrick, facilitated other important onsite academic research at the fishery. This cross-border angling partnership and research, proved critical to our negotiation team.

“Finally, my personal congratulations to our FASTA negotiation team, drawn from all of our community and private angling groups that manage and oversee Game Angling on The River Derg.

“The team was highly motivated, respectful during communication, and committed to the principle of working in partnership, to achieve water quality improvements on our River Derg.”

The findings from the pilot will inform consideration of how in-situ technology could complement existing monitoring and support a better understanding of water-quality events within the catchment.