MASTS is pleased to support this NatureScot led webinar titled: Conservation advice to support the upcoming consultation on the management of fishing activities to improve protection for marine wildlife
Speakers: Laura Steel, Sarah Cunningham and Constance Dawson.
Scotland’s seas are full of life and rich in colour, with internationally important populations of seabirds, marine mammals and fish. Human pressures on the seas are increasing. The demands we put on the seas need to be managed for the benefit, enjoyment and health of generations to come.
The Scottish Government has committed to consulting on management measures for fishing activity for inshore Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) where measures are required and are not already in place, as well as for Priority Marine Features (PMFs) most sensitive to bottom-contacting mobile fishing gear outside the MPA network. Scottish Government is aiming to hold a public consultation toward the end of 2025.
To support this consultation, NatureScot has provided advice to Scottish Government on marine protected areas (MPAs) and advice to support the effective management of wider Scottish seas. Nature Scot's recent advice to support management measures for fishing activity can be found on their webpage (for more details, click here). This advice is focused on a variety of fishing activities in MPAs and features sensitive to bottom contacting towed fishing gear in wider seas.
This lunchtime seminar will provide an overview of the upcoming consultations for MPA and PMF management measures for fishing activity. The seminar will include details of the advice NatureScot has provided to Scottish Government, examples of where measures are being proposed, and information about how to get involved and provide feedback during the consultation. There will be an opportunity for questions at the end of the session.