Management of bivalve fisheries in marine protected areas. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nielsen, Pernille; Nielsen, Mette Møller; McLaverty, Ciaran; Kristensen, Kasper; Geitner, Kerstin; Olsen, Jeppe; Saurel, Camille; Petersen, Jens Kjerulf
• Is Part Of: Marine policy. Volume 124(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Habitat mapping -- Mussel and oyster policy (MOP) -- Shellfish fishery -- Sustainable fishery management -- Natura 2000 site -- Special areas of conservation (SAC); Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Fisheries -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Aspect économique -- Périodiques; Pêches -- Périodiques; Fisheries; Marine resources -- Economic aspects; Periodicals; 333.916405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2020.104357
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-597X

Abstract

Abstract: Marine protected areas are often designated in areas which represent important or historic fishing grounds. Within the European Union, the Natura 2000 (N2000) network of nature protection areas consists of Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas designated under the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive, respectively. In Denmark, an ecosystem-based approach to the management of bivalve fisheries has been implemented in a number of these N2000 areas, ensuring the sustainability of these fisheries and the conservation status of the designated areas. Here, we outline the key management strategies which have been implemented in the N2000 areas under the Danish Mussel Policy. These include the mandatory enforcement of monitoring systems on fishing vessels, acceptance of a maximum 15% cumulative fishery impact to specific ecosystem components, and a remarkable research effort to provide high resolution spatial habitat mapping. Additional strategies such as depth-based spatial restrictions, regulation enforcements, detailed assessments of fisheries impact, and documentation of positive effects of the ecosystem-based approach are also outlined. The results and lessons learnt outlined here are expected to be relevant to those concerned with the management and sustainability of fisheries activities in marine protected areas. Highlights: In 2013, EU legislation brought about ecosystem-based bivalve fisheries management in Denmark. New conservation priorities for habitats and species enhance fishery sustainability in Natura 2000 sites. Active and dynamic engagement of stakeholders ensure adaptive management of bivalve fisheries in marine protected areas. Implementation of mandatory Black box systems results in accurate mapping of benthic impact imposed by fishery. Documentation of fishery impacted area and intensive and continuous research efforts ensure sustainable fisheries and conservation status of marine protected areas.