local work
surveying our local seas Surveys conducted since January 2025
Since January, NIFCA officers have been busy monitoring marine habitats and species across our district. This year, a major new focus is the launch of a dedicated Nephrops (Norway lobster) survey using underwater video transects to count burrows on mud habitats. This method gives us clearer insights into stock levels and habitat condition, helping to shape sustainable, evidence- based management of this valuable fishery. Nephrops are a key commercial species in the North Sea, and understanding their distribution supports both conservation goals and local livelihoods. The Environmental team also carried out a combined Nephrops and periwinkle survey, supported by North Eastern IFCA, expanding our monitoring to intertidal habitats and this summer, they’ll also assist Marine Scotland with underwater TV surveys on prawn
burrows in the Firth of Forth and Devil’s Hole, strengthening regional data collection and partnerships, which also
supports the national nephrop Fisheries Management Plan development.
Elsewhere, officers and volunteers conducted juvenile fish surveys in the River Aln estuary and completed our annual mussel bed assessments at Blyth Estuary, Holy Island, and Fenham Flats, working with Natural England and a Newcastle University placement student and joined local boats to continue lobster and crab surveys, contributing to a valuable dataset built up since 2012. Together, these efforts reflect NIFCA’s commitment to protecting marine biodiversity, supporting coastal communities, and ensuring our seas remain healthy for the future.
Paul Naylor marine photo Image from
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