Deep in Somerset’s waterways lives one of nature’s most extraordinary travelers, but few people realize these ancient creatures are disappearing at an alarming rate. European eels undertake one of the most remarkable journeys on Earth, swimming thousands of miles from the Sargasso Sea to reach British rivers, only to face countless obstacles that have reduced their numbers by 90% since the 1980s. Local conservationists recognized that saving these mysterious fish would require more than scientific expertise, it would need the power of community action.
The Somerset Eel Group has launched an inspiring grassroots movement, enlisting everyone from farmers to schoolchildren in their mission to protect these incredible animals. Volunteers are removing barriers from waterways, creating eel passes around obstacles, and monitoring populations to track recovery progress. The project has transformed into something much bigger than conservation, it’s become a celebration of Somerset’s natural heritage that’s bringing neighbors together around a shared cause. Communities across the county are discovering that protecting eels means protecting the health of their entire river ecosystem, creating cleaner water and more diverse wildlife for everyone to enjoy.