The Loughs Agency launched the Ripple Effect Project on April 22 to engage Derry and Strabane school pupils in artwork about Atlantic salmon ecosystems.

Students in Year 8 and Year 9 in Northern Ireland can enter the competition. They must illustrate a thriving ecosystem centered on Atlantic salmon and add a personal pledge to protect local waterways.

Winning designs will appear in a public awareness campaign across the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas.

Atlantic salmon serve as indicators of ecosystem health. Their survival relies on clean and protected rivers.

Michael Cosgrove, Education Officer at the Loughs Agency, stated the project explores waterway challenges, envisions healthier futures through art, raises awareness, educates youth on ecosystem protection, inspires action and fosters ownership of waterways for future generations.

The agency noted a significant drop in salmon numbers last year across main rivers in the River Foyle system.

Schools in the Foyle and Carlingford areas can contact [email protected] for details on participation.