So far, the charity has collected 2,000 baby mussels which they have found in their seagrass tanks.
Nationally mussels are in decline around the UK coastline and in 2024 the Trust secured funding to survey the area.
(Image: Tees River Trust) The aim is to prevent a similar decline in the Tees mussel population as the native oyster population has already suffered.
(Image: Tees River Trust) Judy Power, a spokesperson for the environmental charity, said: “Our work around the estuary led us to look at the mussel population in the Tees, as we are aware that mussels are in decline around the UK Coastline, and in 2024 we secured funding to start work to survey the current populations and learn more about mussel restoration.
“Ultimately the aim is to ensure the mussel population does not decline in the same way as the native oyster population did on the Tees. Longer term we hope to establish native oyster and mussel reefs to create new habitats for many estuarine species.
(Image: Tees River Trust) “The reason we are keen to restore native oysters and mussels, as well as seagrass, is that these species are ecosystem engineers. One native oyster, for example, can filter and clean up to 200 litres of water every day.
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“Our aim is to use these natural superheroes as part of a wider package of works in the estuary to improve the water quality of the river and increase biodiversity. A final benefit of reintroducing these species is that mussels and native oysters are an important food source for many of the red-listed bird species that over-winter in the estuary.”
Judy emphasised the army of local people who regularly volunteer to help with the surveying and work.
You can find out more about their work on their Facebook page by clicking here.