Government pledge to restore lough mussel beds is welcomed

Government pledge to restore lough mussel beds is welcomed

31 October 2012

A NEW restoration plan for Strangford Lough’s horse mussels has been welcomed by the Ulster Wildlife Trust.

Despite the Lough’s numerous international designations and protections, the Trust feels attempts to protect this special habitat over the last two decades have failed, and hope the government’s renewed commitment will save the species.

Both the Department of the Environment and the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development have agreed to sign-up to a new restoration plan for Strangford Lough that aims to restore its unique horse mussel reefs, which once covered the sea bed, to their former glory.

The action follows a recent complaint by the Ulster Wildlife Trust charity to the European Commission concerning both departments, which could have faced substantial fines for failing to protect the reefs.

The horse mussel reefs provide vital spawning and nursery grounds for hundreds of creatures, including commercially fished species. The new plan includes commitment to a ‘Total Protection Zone’, which will restrict any potentially damaging activity such as fishing, diving, anchoring and mooring within a defined area.

It also includes a permit and tracking system for pot fishing, along with potential physical intervention measures such as the movement of horse mussels, to speed up the restoration process. A range of monitoring and educational activities will also be put in place.

Dr. Jade Berman, Living Seas Manager with the Crossgar-based Trust, welcomed the new government commitment.

“Strangford Lough is recognised worldwide for its remarkable wildlife and takes pride of place as a unique visitor attraction and place to live and work,” she said. “Fisheries are without doubt an important part of the local economy of Strangford and we understand that this period of transition to protection and enforcement will be challenging.

“However, this new plan is not anti-fishing; it’s about securing a sustainable long-term future for the Lough and all its users, before it’s too late.

“Marine ecosystems are very complex and there is no ‘quick fix’ solution for their recovery. The restoration plan is a great start, but there are still details that need ironed out to achieve the protection required. This will require both departments to work together to ensure a joined-up vision and provide the necessary support measures to secure the future prosperity of Strangford Lough — for both people and wildlife.”