Survey of potential Western Channel MPA control sites

Project Aims:

To deliver an offshore survey, the survey will provide information to support JNCC in planning a future effectiveness of measures (EoM) survey at Western Channel Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ). The subsequent effectiveness of measures survey will aim to monitor environmental changes at the site, should proposed fisheries management measures come into effect.

To meet the overall aims of this project, the project objectives are:

Objective 1 - Acquisition and interpretation of multibeam bathymetry and backscatter (control site identification)

Objective 2 - Ground truthing and habitat characterisation

Objective 3 - Repeat bathymetry survey for geomorphological change detection (costed option)

Objective 4 - Compile a final report