Consultation on spatial management measures for industrial sandeel fishing

We want views from stakeholders on options for the future management of sandeels in UK waters. This includes potential measures set out in the consultation that could be introduced in English waters to reduce the detrimental impacts of industrial fishing on the marine ecosystem through the removal of sandeels.

Sandeel stocks are under pressure from industrial fishing in the North Sea and this has subsequent consequences on the marine ecosystem. Vulnerable seabirds, commercially important fish species and sea mammals, including whales, depend on sandeel as a food source. Based upon expert scientific evidence, Defra proposes managements measures for English waters that will reduce further impact on the marine ecosystem.