national work
nifca at ices annual science conference 2024 The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Annual Science Conference, held from the 9th of September at the Glass House conference centre in Gateshead, brought together over 600 scientists from 22 countries across Europe and beyond. For four days, attendees explored vital topics in marine science, fisheries management, and the future of our oceans. Among the attendees, the Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (NIFCA), alongside the Association of IFCAs, highlighted its work to promote sustainable fisheries and marine conservation efforts in the Northumberland district. Representing NIFCA, Lead Environmental IFCO Alex Aitken delivered a presentation on the value of collaborative working. She emphasised how partnerships between conservation authorities, including Natural England in partnership with strong links to Newcastle University, and scientists are critical to achieving effective marine conservation while maintaining sustainable fishing practices. NIFCA’s Senior Environmental Officer Andrew Boon also contributed by showcasing the work done in Berwickshire and Northumberland in comparing the size of onset sexual maturity of edible crab. Additional information was also provided on the impacts and recovery of historic dredging within marine protected areas (MPAs). Delegates were also given the opportunity to tour NIFCA’s patrol vessel, St Aidan, which was moored on the Tyne opposite the conference hall. Mark Southerton, Chief Officer of NIFCA led the tours which were fully subscribed from day one. Aboard the vessel, visitors gained insight into the vital research and enforcement work carried out by NIFCA, which helps to balance marine conservation with the interests of local fishermen. The ICES Annual Science Conference spanned a broad range of marine-related topics, covering themes such as the ecosystem impacts of offshore energy expansion, climate change, and welfare-conscious, sustainable fishing for the 21st century. These discussions were distinct from the ICES working groups, which regularly bring together scientists and fishing experts to compile data and create stock assessments. These assessments form the basis of the advice given to governments for fisheries management and quota decisions.
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