The Crab and Lobster Symposium aims to share current knowledge and support ongoing work to safeguard the long-term health of UK crab and lobster populations and sustainable fisheries.
The demand for UK crab has increased in recent years, largely due to the growth of the export market, particularly to Asia and the EU. The value of landings is increasing, which has resulted in an increase in fishing effort for crab and lobster around the UK.
The industry has concerns about the long-term sustainability of some fisheries and there is common concern amongst fishermen, fisheries managers and conservationists that some inshore regions are experiencing dramatic declines in availability of stock and increased mortality.
A number of groups are working on research and improved management to inform a Crab and Lobster Fisheries Management Plan and the Symposium will share information on our current knowledge of crab and lobster stocks, fishery status, current management measures and future management options to safeguard crab and lobster stocks and sustainable fisheries.
The Symposium is free and fully inclusive with an open forum session inviting views from all attendees, particularly fishermen from the inshore and offshore fleet.
Speakers and a full agenda can be found here. If you have any questions about the event, please contact Sam Fanshawe: Sam@bluemarinefoundation.com
If you are unable to attend the event, please submit any questions or comments via this form, and these will be addressed during the Open Forum Session.