Crab and lobster stock assessment models updated with 2014 data

Contemporary data from Monthly Shellfish Activity Returns have been collated and analysed. Fisheries models constructed from this data are presented to assess the sustainability of the valuable potting fisheries that operate within the district.

Fisheries models indicate most grounds are fishing within maximum sustainable limits and early indications are that Norfolk Offshore grounds are exhibiting signs reaching or exceeding sustainable limits. There is a need to develop more rigorous analysis, bringing methods in line with those used by partner organisations such as Cefas to allow direct comparison of results.

Advice from Defra indicates that Southern North Sea Brown Crab and East Anglian European lobster stocks are being fished at unsustainable levels. Regional level assessments based on best available evidence present quantified measures of localised effort and sustainability; thus facilitating.