#Marinehabitatpreservation

[thxnews]

More Seascape Safeguards: Major Marine Protection Move

A Leap in Marine Conservation

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has unveiled a transformative byelaw set to come into effect on 22 March 2024, marking a pivotal advancement in the UK's environmental stewardship. This regulation, aimed at curtailing the use of bottom-towed fishing gear, encompasses an additional 4,000 square kilometers of English offshore marine protected areas (MPAs), expanding the total protected marine space to nearly 18,000 square kilometers.  

Protecting Precious Marine Habitats

From Consultation to Action Following extensive consultation in 2023, and aligning with the Government's Environmental Improvement Plan progress update, the MMO's initiative is part of an ambitious strategy to safeguard all 54 English offshore MPAs from the adverse effects of fishing activities. The byelaw is a testament to the collective effort and commitment to preserving the nation's marine biodiversity.   The Scope of Protection This regulation extends to 13 MPAs, crucial for the survival of diverse marine species and habitats. Among the newly protected areas are Cape Bank, known for its pea urchins and cushion stars; Haig Fras, a haven for jewel anemones and solitary corals; and Hartland Point to Tintagel, home to pink sea fans and fragile sponges.  

Strengthening Marine Management

Continuous Evaluation and Engagement The MMO is not stopping here. Alongside the byelaw's introduction, the organization is reviewing further evidence on the impacts of anchored nets, lines, bottom-towed fishing gear, and traps on marine ecosystems. A forthcoming consultation will seek to address additional management measures needed to protect these valuable marine features comprehensively.   A Focus on Mobile Marine Species Part of the MMO's ongoing efforts includes assessing fishing impacts on MPAs designated for highly mobile species, such as the harbour porpoise and marine birds like the red-throated diver. Stakeholders across the fishing industry, conservation groups, and scientific communities are encouraged to contribute to this critical dialogue.  

Voices of Leadership

Acknowledgements and Anticipations Acting CEO of MMO, Michelle Willis, expressed gratitude towards participants of the 2023 consultation, emphasizing the informed decision-making process behind the byelaw. Marine Minister Lord Benyon reiterated the UK's dedication to oceanic preservation, highlighting the byelaw as a significant step in enhancing the nation's MPA network.  

A Glimpse at the Protected Areas

To illustrate the breadth of this initiative, here is a simple overview of the MPAs receiving protection under the new byelaw: Location Protected Feature Significance Cape Bank Pea urchins, cushion stars Biodiversity hotspot East of Haig Fras Diverse marine fauna Ecological diversity Farnes East Unique marine life Conservation priority Foreland Marine habitats Environmental importance Goodwin Sands Sandbanks, marine ecosystems Habitat protection Haig Fras Jewel anemones, solitary corals Ecological richness Haisborough, Hammond, and Winterton Sandbanks, marine species Biodiversity conservation Hartland Point to Tintagel Pink sea fans, fragile sponges Habitat diversity Lands End and Cape Bank Marine flora and fauna Conservation significance North Norfolk Sandbanks and Saturn Reef Sandbanks, reef habitats Ecological importance Offshore Brighton Marine biodiversity Conservation efforts South of Celtic Deep Deep-sea species Ecological protection Wight-Barfleur Reef Reef habitats Marine ecosystem conservation   Sources: THX News, Marine Management Organisation & Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. Read the full article