Environmentalist applauded for views on maerl (From Falmouth Packet)

Environmentalist applauded for views on maerl

11:00am Wednesday 9th May 2012 in In Port By David Barnicoat

Doctor Miles Hoskin, a Falmouth-born marine biologist, gave an interesting and informative talk at the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society on the subject of dredging and the effect it may have on the local maerl habitat if the £23 million scheme gets the go-ahead.

A passionate environmentalist, Miles outlined the history of maerl and the importance it has as a rich habitat for small organisms and other species.

He said he believes it should be protected, for which he received a round of applause from many in the audience.

Miles was sceptical that a mini dredging and maerl extraction and replacement project, due to start in the area of the proposed dredged channel later in the summer, would be scientifically successful.

What was apparent to me listening to the various questions put forward was that there are still people who do not understand the workings of a port and the positive financial impact shipping has on its community.

One lady asked me: “Why do cruise ships come to Falmouth?” Another claimed that the docks could diversify into tourism.

This debate has a long road to travel before we see the first mega cruise ship berth alongside the docks.