Fish ladder

About

Did you know? Skien is the only city in Norway featuring a complete canal system for boat traffic, locks, and a modern fish ladder right in the heart of its city center.

Completed in the summer of 2018, this new fish ladder is a prime example of how urban environments and wildlife conservation can seamlessly come together. The facility is universally designed, allowing both visitors and five different species to enjoy and benefit from the Skien River (Skiensvassdraget).

Unique Environmental Qualities & Species

The river running through the city center possesses unique environmental qualities that require careful stewardship. The fish ladder ensures that endangered and key aquatic species can bypass the downtown power stations and continue their journey upstream to their natural spawning and nursery grounds in the Telemark waterway system.

The Fish Ladder facilitates the migration of:

• Salmon
• Sea Trout
• Eel
• Lamprey

Experience, Recreation & Education

The fish ladder is not just an environmental initiative—it is an integrated part of Skien's attractive cityscape and a key highlight along the popular "Bryggevannet rundt" walking route.

• Universal Design: The area is fully accessible, ensuring that everyone—regardless of mobility—can get close to the water and observe the migrating fish.
• Education & Learning: An excellent excursion spot for schools, families, and anyone interested in freshwater biology and river ecosystems.
• Recreation: Complete with seating areas, scenic viewlines, and pedestrian pathways, making it an idyllic stop during a stroll through downtown Skien.

A Unique Collaborative Project

The establishment of the Fish Ladder is the result of a strong partnership between volunteers, power companies, field experts, and public authorities:

• Volunteers: Grenland Sportsfiskere (Local Anglers Association)
• Power & Water Regulators: Skiens Aktiemølle, Broerne 6, and Skagerak Kraft
• Public Authorities: The County Governor, the Norwegian Environment Agency, and Skien Municipality
• Technical Experts: Multiconsult and UNI Research