Sangha of Auspicious Companions

Saving Somerset’s Last Eels

Once abundant, eels in England’s Somerset Levels have seen their numbers plummet by 95% in Vanessa Becker-Hughes’ lifetime. Distraught by their dire population, Becker-Hughes started the Somerset Eel Recovery Project (SERP), which aims to restore the eel population through a unique blend of art, history, and science, reconnecting people to eels in imaginative ways. Whether it’s artists creating evocative prints or schoolchildren pondering “what does it mean to be a human? What does it mean to be an eel?”, the project is getting everyone involved. It is not just about saving eels; it’s about rekindling a lost bond with nature. Reflecting on memories of abundant eels in her childhood, Becker-Hughes underscores the importance of reconnecting people with these creatures. With creative outreach — from eel artwork to ‘eel cafes’ — the community is weaving a new narrative of hope. And guess what? Their unique approach is changing hearts, minds, and, most importantly, the waterways that eels call home.

Be The Change

Organize a local nature walk and invite a diverse group to reconnect with local wildlife and learn about conservation efforts in your area.