Thanks to the fishermen of the Maryport Fishermen’s Co-operative who took part in our activities survey yesterday.

Around 11 local fishermen joined two of our liaison officers at an informal drop-in day held at the Co-operative’s office near Maryport harbour.

Most of the fishermen generally supported the project to bring Marine Conservation Zones to the Irish Sea, provided that any new conservation measures take fishing into consideration.

As well as finding out more about the Irish Sea Conservation Zones project, six fishermen also took part in our survey of how people use the Irish Sea.

Anyone who missed the drop-in day is encouraged to contact our local liaison officer, Stephen Manning, who can arrange to visit people individually. Call 07772 550 121 or email s.manning@irishseaconservationzones.co.uk.

By doing a questionnaire for the survey, people are providing vital firsthand knowledge that will help to map the ways in which they use the Irish Sea for business and for pleasure.

The information could help to shape recommendations for the location of new areas of marine protection called Marine Conservation Zones, as well as how highly they should be protected.

It will be used to create maps that will be vital in ensuring that all interests can be taken into account, which will help ensure that people’s activities are not unnecessarily restricted.

So far nearly 200 people have helped with the research. But time is running out for people to record their interests as the deadline to take part in the survey is October 31^st.

Drop-in days will also be held in Barrow and Fleetwood in early October – contact Stephen Manning for details (contact information above).