Wash Mussel Fisheries Consultation
Eastern IFCA is seeking the views of mussel fishermen in a consultation which closes at midday on 14 December 2024.
The 2024 intertidal mussel survey has indicated that there is the potential for a harvestable and re-laying mussel fishery. To inform a decision on the fisheries and develop any associated management measures we are seeking the views of stakeholders.
The development of management measures is at the initial stages and a Habitat Regulations Assessment is being undertaken to determine if the fishery will impact on the Wash Marine Protected Areas and what management may be needed to protect the site.
Understanding the views of stakeholders will help inform the assessment and the development of measures. In particular, it is important to understand the amount of interest in the fishery and the likely amount of activity.
A questionnaire and additional information is available below. The deadline for responses is midday on 14 December 2024.
In addition to the questionnaire, a meeting is being arranged to discuss the matter with industry. The preference is to hold the meeting in person, at Sutton Bridge, but this will depend on the availability of the venue and holding an online meeting will also be an option. A provisional date of 9 December 2024 is proposed for the meeting. More information will be posted online when a meeting is arranged.
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