MCZ Project Wales
In Welsh inshore waters the MCZ Project Wales will designate a
small number of highly protected MCZs. Site selection is being
managed by Welsh Assembly Government engaging widely with the
public and sea user interests. Three groups have been established
to oversee the process - a Steering Group, a Technical
Advisory Group and a Stakeholder and Citizen Engagement Group. JNCC
sit on the
Steering Group and the
Technical Advisory Group.
The Steering Group provides the overall direction for the
project and will make the final decisions and recommendations
required throughout the process. The Technical Advisory Group
provides the technical and specialist advice to the project
including the development of guidance on site selection. JNCC's
involvement in this project is important for the co-ordination of
MPA identification work across the UK.
The first consultation on potential site options for highly
protected Marine Conservation Zones in Wales is underway. The aim
is to end up with 3-4 sites for designation through an iterative,
phased consultation process. Consultation documents can be found on
the
Welsh Government website.
alexmitchell7.jpg "Sea hare (Aplysia) at Skomer © Alexander Mitchell")
alexmitchell.jpg "Pink seafan (Eunicella verrucosa) off Pembrokeshire © Alexander Mitchell")
alexmitchell.jpg "Scorpionfish resting on a rock at Skomer © Alexander Mitchell")
Further information can be found on the
Welsh Government website and you can
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