A STUDY into the effects of the 1995 drought has resumed in the region.

For the next four weeks, teams from the Environment Agency's fisheries department will be carrying out surveys at 50 sites along the Ouse, Ure and Wharfe, in North Yorkshire.

Each survey will involve using a variety of different methods, including electro-fishing - a process where fish are temporarily stunned and taken from the water to allow their size and condition to be assessed.

Agency staff have been carrying out similar surveys since the drought seven years ago, when Yorkshire Water was reduced to using tankers to bring in water supplies after reservoirs and rivers began to dry up.

Fishery science team leader Richard Jenkins said yesterday: "These surveys give us vital information which enables us to assess the current status of fish stocks and identify any population changes which may have taken place.

"They are also invaluable for putting together action plans for improving the local environment.

"The number of sites surveyed last year was restricted because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

"However, by liaising closely with landowners and by taking the necessary precautions, we are hoping to be able to survey all our usual sites this year."