Recently, Friends of the Maitai had the opportunity to help with the translocation of eels from below the Maitai Dam to the reservoir above the dam. There has been concern that eels find it difficult to negotiate the spillway, especially in dry weather, so are unable to easily access the reservoir and the upper reaches of the north branch of the Maitai. The translocation is part of a strategy to increase the numbers of eel and other native fish species in the upper catchment, which could be a haven for them once spillway access is enhanced. Tom Kroos and Rick Olley from Fish and Wildlife Services wielded the electric fishing gear that stunned the eels briefly, so they could be caught in stop nets held by the rest of group. The eels were then transferred to bins and driven in style to the top of the dam where they were released into the reservoir. Close encounters with eels reminds me of how beautiful and fascinating they can be, but slippery rocks and fast flowing water can lead to unexpected dunkings and waterlogged boots. It was all great fun and thanks to Paul and crew for another superb learning opportunity.
Eel Translocation
