Mariners are advised that Berwick Bank Offshore Wind Farm (BBOWF) will be continuing geophysical survey works within export cable route areas.

The survey is being undertaken by X-Ocean and will be conducted by an uncrewed surface vessel (USV). It is due to start on 26 May 2025 (+/- 2 days, pending vessel availability) lasting approximately seven days in total. To allow for weather delays and any other eventualities, we would like to extend the validity of this notice to 31 July 2025.

To undertake the survey, the USV will be deploying towed equipment, however it should be noted that BBOWF do not require relocation of fishing gear; on this occasion the vessel will be able to work around any present within the survey areas.

Notice to Mariners – Berwick Bank Geophysical Survey – 1st Issue

This spring, NIFCA was proud to host two enthusiastic placement students: Kasim Mahedi Shariff and Oliver Clarke, each bringing a passion for the marine environment and a desire to learn more about fisheries governance and conservation.

Their time with us not only enriched their understanding of marine management but also gave them a front-row seat to the important work we conduct along the Northumberland coast.

From Brighton to the North East: Kasim Mahedi Shariff

A Stage 2 Marine Biology student at Newcastle University’s School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Kasim joined NIFCA to explore his keen interest in marine governance and the management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

During his placement, Kasim took part in a wide range of activities, from conducting mussel bed surveys at Holy Island and Fenham Flats, to analysing regression data using RStudio and ArcGIS. He also joined the Enforcement Team on coastal patrols, helped measure lobster sizes in North Shields, and even had the opportunity to helm the Robert Arckless MBE Patrol RIB. A particular highlight for him was patrolling down the Tyne and taking in the stunning wildlife, which included grey seals, puffins, and porpoises!

Kasim reflected on the importance of inter-agency communication in managing marine ecosystems and acknowledged how the experience reshaped his views to include the socio-economic dimensions of environmental protection. He now hopes to continue his studies with a summer exchange in Hong Kong and ultimately pursue a governmental role focused on the creation and management of highly protected marine areas.

“I would definitely recommend the NIFCA placement,” he said. “The team were incredibly welcoming, and I’ve gained invaluable insights into how MPAs function in the real world. Special thanks to Andrew and, of course, Penny the office dog.”

A Budding Marine Biologist: Oliver Clarke

For Year 12 student Oliver Clarke from Whitley Bay High School, the NIFCA placement was a dream come true. A lifelong fish enthusiast, Oliver wanted to spend his work experience immersed in the world of marine life, and NIFCA delivered!

Over the course of his placement, Oliver supported a variety of core activities, including reviewing Nephrops burrow footage, participating in land and sea patrols, in-putting lobster survey data, and assisting in the creation of trawling permits. One of his standout moments was measuring lobsters and helming the NIFCA Patrol Boat—an experience he won’t soon forget.

Oliver plans to return to school and continue his path toward becoming a marine biologist, with his time at NIFCA helping to solidify his aspirations. “I’d definitely recommend the placement to others,” he shared. “It was an amazing experience.”

Welcoming the next generation

Mark Southerton, NIFCA Chief Officer, said: “We’re always delighted to support and mentor the next generation of marine scientists and managers. Placements like these not only offer students a valuable learning experience but also bring fresh energy and curiosity to our daily work. A big thank you to everyone across the NIFCA team who helped make these placements so engaging and informative.”

An exciting opportunity has arisen with Newcastle University to undertake an MRes Project focused on enhancing the Benthic Impacts Tool to incorporate key subtidal mud species for application in North East England.

Eligibility: You need at least an upper 2.1 BSc degree in a relevant subject, have an excellent grounding in statistics, and have good knowledge and preferably experience with R statistical software.

Full details of the project can be found HERE.

Please click on the link below where you will find the relevant information regarding this survey in the NIFCA district.

Notice to Mariners – Blyth to Farne Islands

New legislation will soon require smaller (under-12 metre) English fishing vessels to have a device fitted to monitor fishing activity and help improve the management and sustainability of our marine environment.

For more details please see link below:-

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mmo-confirms-i-vms-legislation-schedule-for-2025