Folklore and Science Revive Somerset’s Eels

Quick Smiles:

• Locals once paid rent with their catch of eels in Somerset.
• Conservationists blend folklore, education, and science to revive the European eel.
• Children learn through classroom eel aquariums and river blessings.

In southwest England, the once-thriving European eel inspired songs, stories, and even place names. Today, these unique creatures are almost gone, but a group of determined conservationists is bringing them back to Somerset’s waterways—and to local memory.

The Somerset Eel Recovery Project uses a mix of old traditions and innovative science to reignite community pride and ecological health. By weaving straw ropes over barriers, blessing rivers, and involving children in eel-spotting, locals are finding new reasons to care.

“I try to come at it from different angles. Sometimes we do science, sometimes we do a river blessing. But it’s all about connection,” said co-founder Vanessa Becker-Hughes.

“We make straw ropes, which we put over barriers. They get wet and the little glass eels use them to climb up and over. But more than that it gets people to visit these weirs. They notice the water. They count the eels. They start to care.”

With eel aquariums now in 60 local schools, Somerset’s children experience history firsthand as they observe these important animals up close. Volunteers also use environmental DNA kits to track eel populations, merging cutting-edge research with the region’s cultural roots.

The eel’s struggle is tied to modern barriers like dams as well as invasive parasites, but through captive breeding and safe release programs, the project is helping numbers slowly rise. Community involvement—through song, celebration, and learning—means both the eels and their rich traditions have a brighter future.

Let’s celebrate these conservation heroes who blend heritage and science to keep Somerset’s waters—and spirits—flowing strong!

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