Scottish Fisheries Coordination Centre (SFCC) Electrofishing and Habitat Surveying Protocols & Training

SFCC members have developed juvenile salmonid and habitat survey protocols to ensure that data are collected to a high standard. Unlike other fish and habitat survey methods, those used by the SFCC were developed specifically for fisheries management applications. By using common methods, fish and habitat data can be compared both locally and nationally across Scotland. Regular workshops are organised to allow members to review the methods that have been developed in the light of recent research.

Training courses
In order to teach and maintain the required standards of surveys, the SFCC organises training courses in both electrofishing and habitat surveying. Electrofishing courses are run by either Inverness College or Barony College. Two courses are available: (1) Electrofishing Introductory Course (SVQ2); and (2) Electrofishing Team Leader Course (SVQ3). Pre-requisites for attending the Team Leader Course are successful completion of the Introductory Course and at least one season of practical electrofishing experience. Habitat surveying courses are run by Galloway Fisheries Trust.

Protocols can be viewed and downloaded from the SFCC Website: http://www.sfcc.co.uk/protocols.asp

Please contact James Orpwood at the SFCC if you would like further information about any of the SFCC courses.