nifca news summer 2025
national work
From Policy to Protection
The UK government, through Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), is working towards protecting 30% of England's land and sea by 2030 (30by30) to combat nature decline and improve biodiversity. This commitment aligns with the global 30by30 targets adopted at the UN Biodiversity Summit (COP15). The UK is actively working to meet this target through various
Fisheries can co-exist alongside and within MPAs where well managed in relation to the conservation objectives of the site. These fisheries, in the inshore waters of the NIFCA district, support the local coastal communities and contribute to essential high quality food security. Scallop dredging and beam trawling are prohibited in 100% of the district’s 1492km ² including the network of 10 MPAs. In addition bottom towed fishing gear closures within MPAs represents 40% of the district area, and further restrictions on trawling to limit the activity to low level using light gear in a further 13% of the district area. NIFCA remains committed to supporting Defra’s 30by30 goals by actively managing and protecting the region’s inshore marine environment. Through science-based policies, co-management with local stakeholders, and strict gear restrictions, such as the district- wide ban on scallop dredging and protection of reef habitats. NIFCA has already secured protections across more than 40% of its district. This work ensures that sustainable fishing and biodiversity conservation go hand in hand, safeguarding the health of marine ecosystems for future generations. Find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ criteria-for-30by30-on-land-in-
initiatives and collaborations, including the Environmental Improvement Plan and the Environment Act 2021.
IFCAs are playing a role in this effort, particularly in managing and protecting coastal areas.
Coastal Management: IFCAs are Statutory Regulators and responsible for managing inshore fisheries and conserving the marine environment within their respective districts. Their role is crucial in supporting the marine 30by30 target, particularly in coastal areas, by implementing fisheries management measures within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Improving the effectiveness of IFCAs, including their funding, engagement, and monitoring, highlighted in a recent report ¹ is crucial for the success of 30by30. Bottom Towed Fishing Gear restrictions in the Northumberland IFCA District: Fishers are key custodians of sustainable marine environments and continue to work with Northumberland IFCA to ensure a viable fishing industry for current and future generations is maintained. The NIFCA Authority is made up of 21 members including stakeholders from the district and elected councillors who agree policies of management through a model of co management.
england/30by30-on-land-in-england- confirmed-criteria-and-next-steps
¹ Conduct and Operations Report 2018-2022
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