Loch Carron flame shell beds have been designate as a Marine Protected Area (MPA). The endangered seabed habitat off the north west coast has been designated an MPA by the Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham.
The protection has been enforced following an investigation by Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Government into claims that the vulnerable habitat had been damaged by scallop dredging. The inquiry confirmed the claims, and identified a viable plan for recovery.
To manage fishing activity, an urgent Marine Conservation Order will be out in place to prevent mobile gear fisheries in the area for one year.
Ms Cunningham, said: "We take our duty to protect Scotland's rich marine environment extremely seriously and recognize the importance of safeguarding vulnerable habitats like flame shell beds.
"The Scottish Government will now begin work immediately to identify if there are other areas which should be protected."
The protection of ecosystems in this scenic loch is a positive step forward for Scotland's heritage and environmental protection.
The protection has been enforced following an investigation by Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Government into claims that the vulnerable habitat had been damaged by scallop dredging. The inquiry confirmed the claims, and identified a viable plan for recovery.
To manage fishing activity, an urgent Marine Conservation Order will be out in place to prevent mobile gear fisheries in the area for one year.
Ms Cunningham, said: "We take our duty to protect Scotland's rich marine environment extremely seriously and recognize the importance of safeguarding vulnerable habitats like flame shell beds.
"The Scottish Government will now begin work immediately to identify if there are other areas which should be protected."
The protection of ecosystems in this scenic loch is a positive step forward for Scotland's heritage and environmental protection.
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