WWF has been campaigning for over five years for better protection of Atlantic salmon in Northern Ireland. The North West river will be only the third in Northern Ireland to be accorded Special Area of Conservation (SAC) status, under the EU Habitat's Directive, for the King of Fish. This will put it alongside 21 other UK rivers which have been designated for their important salmon populations.

Atlantic salmon populations have declined recently and a 2007 UK report describes the prospects for salmon as 'poor'. Locally, threats to the species, both at sea and in our rivers, include pollution, habitat destruction and climate change.

"Salmon is recognised across Europe as a species which needs special conservation measures and we're delighted that steps are now being taken to improve the level of protection for one of Northern Ireland's most iconic and valuable species. The Faughan River is a renowned spawning site for salmon returning from the Atlantic and we believe its designation as a Special Area of Consersation, will help boost the local population of this threatened species," said Malachy Campbell, Policy Officer, WWF Northern Ireland.