Island Life Magazine Ltd February/March 2012 | Page 85

COUNTRY LIFE

Mermaids glove by Paul Naylor

Stalked jellyfish by Jolon Chesworth

Reference Areas should be. A unique
process, it has brought together all
sea users, such as fishermen, the
aggregate industry, recreational sectors
and conservation organisations, in an
effort to maximise ecological gain and
minimise socio-economic impact. By
providing expert ecological advice and
data, the Trust has been instrumental
in helping to secure some of our best
local sites as potential MCZs. Indeed,
we have run dedicated surveys in
potential MCZs to gather the required
evidence to support designation. But
with so many competing interests, the
process has not been easy and some
areas important for biodiversity in the
region have not made the list.
The final list of recommended MCZs
has been submitted to Defra and these
are currently being considered and will
go through a further round of public
consultation in 2012.
The Marine Conservation Zones We
Want Needles 11.01k