Lake Garda Trout to Resume Upstream Spawning with Dam Overhaul
The trout of Lake Garda will resume their ancient tradition of swimming upstream along the Sarca River, as far as the vicinity of Ceniga, for the periodic laying of eggs. This will happen shortly, within two years. The Province needs this time to carry out those interventions that will enable this endangered freshwater species to overcome the three dams along the river preventing them from reaching the spawning areas.
The program to restore the “spawning ladders,” as this reproductive phase was once called, was presented yesterday at palazzo Giuliani under the initiative of assessore Fabrizio Miori, who was the energetic promoter. The provincial wildlife service manager, Dr. Romano Masè, accompanied by official Dr. Testa, who is coordinating the important project, also attended the presentation.
The study and technical proposals
Dr. Lorenzo Betti from the Trentino-based Acquario company explained the study they completed on the Sarca River to identify a method that allows the trout to bypass the three dams. The first is the Brassera dam, located near the Enel power plant at Linfano; the other one is slightly upstream, near the Mandelli trout farm.
The third, called Malapreda, is situated between Arco and Ceniga. The expert proposed covering the three unsightly concrete barriers with a less steep ramp made of anchored rocks that blend into the surrounding environment. Between the rocks, large pools will be created that, due to the small height difference between them, the fish can easily overcome.
Next interventions and developments
The success of the project depends on the flow increase in the river. Dr. Betti suggested additional measures along the Sarca, including modifications to the riverbank in the Pratosaiano area. The Province is already developing the executive plan, which is scheduled to be completed next year.
Work will begin immediately, as the project is already included in the provincial three-year hydraulic works budget. The Province of Brescia and Verona, which border Lake Garda, are involved in this initiative.
