New AQUA Bronze Award for Highbridge Angling Association!

We’re delighted to welcome Highbridge Angling Association to the AQUA network as one of our newest Bronze Award accredited sites.

Based in Somerset, Highbridge Angling is one of the county’s longest-standing angling communities, with a strong commitment to sustainable fishery management, healthy waterways and environmental stewardship. Their proactive approach to biosecurity and invasive species management has made them a fantastic addition to the AQUA scheme.

Building awareness around invasive species

Over recent years, the association has seen a growing awareness and understanding of invasive non-native species (INNS) among its anglers and volunteers. Through continued support from the Angling Trust and Neil Green, alongside the development of tools such as the INNS Mapper app, Highbridge Angling has strengthened its ability to identify, monitor and respond to invasive species threats across its venues.

The club has also developed its own biosecurity plan, helping guide best practice when moving between sites, producing RAMS documentation and carrying out routine fishery management activities.

“Highbridge Angling Association have grown experience with the rapid growth of awareness around invasive species and have seen real interest from our anglers and volunteers, who are genuinely helping with awareness of what’s in and around our banks.

With continued help from Neil Green, the Angling Trust and the development of the INNS Mapper app, we have been able to create our own biosecurity plan, which has clearly helped us with the identification of invasive species, especially when producing RAMS documentation or when moving between venues.”

Spotlight on zebra mussels

One of the key invasive species identified at Highbridge was the zebra mussel. Easily recognised by their distinctive “D”-shaped shells and dark zig-zag striping, zebra mussels attach themselves tightly to hard surfaces using strong byssal threads.

Although small in size, their impacts can be significant.

Ecological impacts

• Outcompeting native species by filtering huge amounts of plankton from the water

• Disrupting food webs and altering natural aquatic ecosystems

• Smothering native mussels, preventing them from feeding or moving

• Increasing water clarity, which can lead to excessive aquatic plant growth and habitat changes

Infrastructure and economic impacts

• Blocking pipes and water systems through dense accumulations

• Damaging boats and engines by attaching to hulls and mechanical components

• Increasing long-term maintenance and management costs

Actions taken since AQUA Bronze Accreditation

Since joining the AQUA scheme, Highbridge Angling Association has already implemented a range of practical biosecurity measures to help combat the spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species:

• Installation of washdown facilities

• Lake regrading and removal of debris to reduce suitable zebra mussel habitat

• Dip tanks introduced on site

• Creation of a personnel and equipment biosecurity app to monitor activities

• Increased awareness and engagement through social media

• Biosecurity procedures introduced for machinery entering site

• Additional washdown and dip tank facilities planned for 2024/25

• Updated biosecurity planning and management procedures

• Continued investment in equipment for individuals working around lakes and rivers

These actions have already led to a noticeable reduction in zebra mussel accumulation, alongside increased vigilance and awareness throughout the association — a positive outcome for all water users.

Looking ahead

Highbridge Angling Association has demonstrated a fantastic commitment to protecting its waterways and promoting strong biosecurity practices. Their enthusiasm, practical action and long-term vision embody exactly what the AQUA scheme aims to achieve.

We’re excited to continue supporting the association on their biosecurity journey — and we hope to see them progress towards their AQUA Silver Award in the future!