NIFCA NEWS Spring/ 15yr 2026

nifca’S sTORY

members &governance

science & research

Today, NIFCA’s membership brings together the knowledge of commercial fishers, anglers, Councillors and scientists, creating a balanced and collaborative approach to managing and protecting our inshore fisheries for future generations. Drawing on a wide range of experience, local knowledge and technical expertise, Members play an important role in shaping the Authority’s work, from decisions relating to fisheries and site management, to regulatory measures, compliance and sanctions. Through their dedication and commitment to balancing the needs of the marine environment, the fishing industry and coastal communities, Members help ensure that management decisions are informed, proportionate and reflective of both environmental responsibilities and the people whose livelihoods and heritage are connected to our inshore waters.

NIFCA’s science and research work has played an important role in supporting sustainable, evidence- led fisheries management across the district. Through surveys, monitoring programmes and collaborative projects with universities and partner organisations, the Authority continues to strengthen understanding of the local marine environment and inform effective management decisions.

ICES conference 2024

NIFCA’s commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing was reflected in 2024 through our involvement in the ICES Annual Science Conference, Newcastle, where Lead Environmental Officer Alex Aitken delivered a presentation highlighting aspects of the Authority’s scientific and research work.

Jan2019

jan2020

MON2021

aug2018

A visit from Defra colleagues to NIFCA’s Blyth office reflected the continued importance of collaboration between national policy and local regulation in supporting sustainable fisheries and healthy marine environments

Working in partnership with Newcastle University, NIFCA supported a marine crustacea tracking project collecting 60 grab samples and making 20 BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Video) deployments over two days

The launch of the FLAG- funded Brown Crab Stock Assessment Programme marked an important step in developing a stronger scientific understanding of local crab stocks

Building on NIFCA’s long- standing partnership with Newcastle University, the MSFD project was a collaborative research initiative, generating survey data that continues to inform scientific research and fisheries management today

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