The Scotsman

Calls for ban on dredging and trawling near shore

- By ILONA AMOS

Campaigner­s are calling for Scottish ministers to ban dredging and trawling in vulnerable areas of the sea and establish new “Go Fish” zones in less sensitive areas in an effort to avoid destructio­n of Scotland’s marine environmen­t.

The calls come as a consultati­on over the future management of Scotland’s seas is due to close.

Members of Open Seas, a charity dedicated to sustainabl­e fisheries, said plans already put forward fall short of what is needed, and that the review offers a “once in a lifetime” chance to reverse damage to important ecosystems.

They believe only lower-impact fishing such as creeling and diving should be allowed within six miles of shore, which would aid seabed recovery and protect fish nursery grounds.

They also propose designated “Go Fish” zones, where dredging and trawling could continue without affecting fragile habitats. The charity claims the moves would benefit the entire rural economy.

“Damaging methods of fishing are disrupting the ecology of our seas and wider food webs,” said Phil Taylor, head of policy and operations at Open Seas.

“Dredgers and trawlers are now left literally scraping the bottom for scallops and prawns.”

He added: “It’s time to move the whole system onto a more sustainabl­e footing – this seabed review is that opportunit­y.”

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