Call to push for marine conservation zones before deadline (From Falmouth Packet)

Call to push for marine conservation zones before deadline

7:00am Saturday 23rd March 2013 in News

Cornwall Wildlife Trust is urging as many people in Cornwall as possible to respond to the current Government consultation on Marine Conservation Zones. The deadline is March 31.

The Trust says it is "bitterly disappointed by the lack of ambition" shown in the consultation.

Defra proposes to designate 31 of the 127 sites recommended by experts and stakeholders at the end of August last year. 

Abby Crosby, marine conservation officer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said “We are sad to see the loss of some of Cornwall’s most fantastic sites, from Mounts Bay to the Gannel Estuary in Newquay. These areas highlight some of our most special wildlife, from dolphins and basking sharks to crayfish and pink sea fans. These areas will now have a delay in their much needed protection due to decisions made by UK government."

View the zones at www.wildlifetrusts.org/MCZmap.

Abby continues, “We need a network of Marine Conservation Zones to protect the extraordinary range of species and habitats in our seas and to allow them to recover to their full potential. 

For more information about Marine Conservation Zones, please see the Trusts website www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/mczs.