Would zoning our coastal waters for fisheries and conservation enable better management and sustainable development?
That is the question posed by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) in a consultation being launched today (Thursday) – see www.gov.im/consultations
The Island’s territorial sea extends for 22 kilometres (or 12 nautical miles) and covers some 4,000 square kilometres in area.
Through its Future Fisheries, Managing our Natural Wealth and Food Matters strategies, DEFA is aiming to ensure that the economically-important fishing industry, and the marine environment that supports it, are protected for the long term.
It is also recognised that other recreational coastal activities, including charter fishing, wildlife tourism and diving, which also contribute to our economy and way of life, would benefit from a better quality marine environment.
The public is being asked whether activities between the shoreline and three miles out to sea should be zoned; if so, how should this be done to maximise the benefit for everyone.
Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘People earn a living from our seas, through fishing and eco-tourism, but also use it for recreational purposes and we all benefit from conserving a healthy marine environment.
‘One of the methods of balancing the needs of users is via a zoning plan which ensures separation of activities, where suitable. This means that each activity can be managed around developing its full potential, but also in a sustainable way.’
The consultation also seeks views on the establishment of a second Manx marine nature reserve within the 0-1 mile area. A zoned reserve exists in Ramsey Bay which allows for a range of activities including potting for lobsters and whelk, preservation zones for eel grass and horse mussel reefs, and an increasingly valuable scallop fishery which has recovered and developed since 2009.
The consultation runs until Thursday 19 May. Responses should be sent to:
Fisheries Directorate
Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture
Thie Slieau Whallian
Foxdale Road
St John's
Isle of Man
IM4 3AS.
Hard copies of the consultation document are available from DEFA headquarters at St John’s.
Public briefings will be held in Ramsey, St John’s, Peel and Port St Mary during the weeks beginning 18 and 25 April.
Visit www.gov.im and click on ‘Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture’ and then ‘Fisheries Directorate’ for details.
