nifca news spring 2026
welcome Welcome to our Spring 2026 newsletter, which also marks the 15-year anniversary of the Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), established under the Marine and Coastal Access Act. This milestone offers an important opportunity to consider the strides made in the sustainable management of our inshore fisheries. Over the past decade and a half, the IFCAs have played a crucial role in fostering a viable fishing industry, deeply embedded within the cultural and historical fabric of our coastal communities. The development of marine protected areas and the careful management of fishing activity across the district have played a vital role in protecting sensitive seabed habitats from the impacts of fishing gear. These efforts have not only preserved the unique character of local harbours and traditions but have also ensured a steady supply of locally caught fish and shellfish. This abundance contributes directly to the economic prosperity of coastal areas and bolsters local food security, reinforcing the importance of sustainable fisheries for both present and future generations. Today, more than 40% of the district’s 1,492 km ² is closed to trawling. Both scallop dredging and beam trawling are entirely prohibited across the district, ensuring that vulnerable seabed habitats remain safeguarded from potentially damaging activities. In addition, a further 13% of the district is governed by restrictions on the use of bottom towed gear. These areas are managed through a combination of agreed limited access and the implementation of remote electronic monitoring (REM) systems, which include vessel trackers and gear sensors to ensure compliance and support enforcement. Specific byelaws have also been introduced to protect vital seagrass beds, reinforcing our commitment to habitat conservation. Across the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network, robust monitoring and control plans are in place, providing comprehensive oversight and helping to maintain the ecological integrity of these important environments. These measures, developed by IFCA members over the last 15 years, directly support the UK Government’s 30 by 30 ambition to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030. We would like to thank all Authority members, staff, and our wider partners past and present for their contribution to these achievements.
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