Jørn From expresses concern over declining fish populations in Nybøl Nor, Denmark

As a young boy, Jørn From caught his first sea trout in Nybøl Nor, Southern Denmark, in 1967. He returned home beaming with pride, a feeling he still seeks today while fishing in his grey waders. However, he sadly believes that the situation may not improve during his lifetime.

From expresses concern over the declining health of local waterways due to pollution, algae, and excessive nutrients that are detrimental to fish populations. The introduction of a new green agreement aims to restore what is termed “good ecological status” to coastal waters, yet many experts doubt its effectiveness.

The fishing veteran fears these experts might be right, lamenting, “It’s tragic to see. I don’t believe it will get better in my lifetime.” Although he has fished in Nybøl Nor for decades, his visits have decreased due to lower fish numbers. Now, he often travels to Skjern Å for salmon fishing.

The agreement specifies that agriculture must cut nitrogen use by nearly 14,000 tons, a figure that experts argue should be closer to 24,000 tons to meet its objectives. They assert that it is overly optimistic to expect all areas to reach good ecological condition based on this plan.

Jørn From has fished the same spot for over 25 years, recalling times when he would return with up to seven fish. Now, he describes the water as a dumping ground, emphasizing the imbalance in the ecosystem.

Despite the critiques, Minister Jeppe Bruus remains confident in the agreement, suggesting that differing opinions among researchers are common and that efforts will be concentrated where they are needed most. Yet, From insists he’ll believe it when he sees it, as he leaves the water once more empty-handed, obscured by pollution.