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Publication - Factsheet

Fisheries Management Measures within Scottish Inshore Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Proposed Priority Marine Feature (PMF) Management Areas - Site and Area Proposal Document

Published
14 September 2026
From
Director of Marine
Directorate
Marine Directorate
Topic
Environment and climate change, Marine and fisheries
ISBN
9781806432950

This document describes the process, justification and evidence used to develop site and area specific fisheries management measures. It outlines key information for each site and area including their features, and risks of potential pressures.

Supporting documents

23. Proposed PMF management areas in the Outer Hebrides marine region

23.1 East Loch Tarbert and Scalpay (Harris)

23.1.1 Description and background*

East Loch Tarbert and Scalpay (Harris) proposed PMF management area covers two discrete areas, the inner portion of Loch Tarbert stopping just short of the west coast of Scatasay, and the waters surrounding Scalpay and its surrounding islets. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Horse mussel beds;
  • Maerl beds;
  • Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers; and
  • Northern sea fan and sponge communities

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the Inner Hebrides and the Minches SAC.

23.1.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for Inner Hebrides and the Minches SAC for set nets (not including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.1.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

Option 2 has a northern sea fan and sponge communities record that is not captured in Option 1 as this is a single, pre-2000, record.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint in two discrete locations, and excludes the most westerly northern sea fan and sponge communities record. A reduction was made to accommodate fishing activity as much as possible with suitable buffers applied around the protected features.

Figure 175. East Loch Tarbert and Scalpay (Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 1*
Map shows two distinct areas to be protected: the innermost part of Loch Tarbert, with its outer boundary just before Sgeotasaigh; and the southern, eastern, and northern coastlines of Scalpay. A horse mussel bed is found in the inner portion of Loch Tarbert, a maerl bed near Scalpay bridge, and northern sea fan and sponge communities on the eastern and southern coasts of Scalpay.

*The northern sea fan and sponge communities record directly south of the maerl bed record is completely covering the maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers record

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint including the most westerly PMF northern sea fan and sponge communities record.

Figure 176. East Loch Tarbert and Scalpay (Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 2*
Map shows two distinct areas to be protected: the innermost part of Loch Tarbert, with its outer boundary just before Sgeotasaigh; and the waters surrounding Scalpay. A horse mussel bed is found in the inner portion of Loch Tarbert, a maerl bed near Scalpay bridge, and northern sea fan and sponge communities on the eastern, western, and southern coasts of Scalpay. A horse mussel record is included in this option that is not included in option 1.

*The northern sea fan and sponge communities record directly south of the maerl bed record is completely covering the maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers record

23.1.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.2 East of Mingulay

23.2.1 Description and background*

East of Mingulay proposed PMF management area occupies a small patch of open waters halfway between Barra and Tiree. This area was selected to protect:

  • Northern sea fan and sponge communities

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the Sea of the Hebrides NCMPA.

23.2.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for Sea of the Hebrides NCMPA for set nets (not including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.2.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint and is over two discrete locations closely following extent of PMF point records. A reduction was made to accommodate fishing activity as much as possible with suitable buffers applied around the protected features.

Figure 177. East of Mingulay proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows two distinct areas to be protected: the innermost part of Loch Tarbert, with its outer boundary just before Sgeotasaigh; and the waters surrounding Scalpay. A horse mussel bed is found in the inner portion of Loch Tarbert, a maerl bed near Scalpay bridge, and northern sea fan and sponge communities on the eastern, western, and southern coasts of Scalpay. A horse mussel record is included in this option that is not included in option 1.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

Figure 178. East of Mingulay proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map a single area in the open water some 20 kilometres east of Mingulay, the northeast part contains some pinnacles rising to 80m depth. Throughout this area there are northern sea fan and sponge community records evident. This option joins the two discrete areas in option 1 together.

23.2.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.3 Loch Aineort (South Uist)

23.3.1 Description and background

Loch Aineort (South Uist) proposed PMF management area covers the waters of Loch Aineort on South Uist, and the waters immediately outside it. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds

There are also northern sea fan and sponge communities records present in Option 2, but they were not a focus for this area selection.

23.3.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.3.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint, excluding the outer mouth of Loch Aineort and the northern sea fan and sponge communities records.

Figure 179. Loch Aineort (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows the area for measures extending from the head of Loch Aineort to an outer boundary a short way west of Eilean Ailein. There are four maerl records dispersed throughout the area.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint that includes the outer mouth of Loch Aineort and two northern sea fan and sponge communities records which are not the primary focus for this area selection.

Figure 180. Loch Aineort (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows the area for measures extending from the head of Loch Aineort to just beyond the mouth of the loch, with the outer boundary just east of Cleit a‘ Ghlinn Mhòir. There are four maerl records dispersed throughout the inner part of the area. A northern sea fan and sponge community record exists in the south of the mouth of the Loch, with another just north of the mouth.

23.3.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Suction dredge prohibited all year in part of the area
  • Fishing for any species of sea fish except king scallops and queen scallops with a trawl, Danish seine or similar net, purse seine, ring net or dredge between 1st March and 31st October in each year in part of the area
  • All methods of fishing for king scallops or queen scallops between 1st March and 30th April in each year in part of the area
  • All methods of fishing for king scallops or queen scallops between 25th August and 31st October in each year in part of the area
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.4 Stulaigh (South Uist)

23.4.1 Description and background

Stulaigh (South Uist) proposed PMF management area covers the waters surrounding Stulaigh up to the South Uist Coast and the small islets to the east. This area was selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds;

There are also maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers records present in Option 2, but they were not the focus for this area selection.

23.4.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.4.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint that more closely follows maerl bed records and habitat of a depth suitable for maerl beds. It also accommodates the fishing activity based on the data provided.

Figure 181. Stulaigh (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows an area extending around the coast of Stulaigh and Glas-Eilean Mòr, and stretching to the South Uist coast. Numerous maerl bed records exist between Stulaigh and South Uist, with four more between Stulaigh and Glas-Eilean Mòr.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint including a maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers record and habitat of depths suitable for maerl beds to the east and south.

Figure 182. Stulaigh (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows an area extending around the coast of Stulaigh as far east as Dubh-sgeir Mhòr and stretching to the South Uist coast. This option alsoe xtends further south than option 1. Numerous maerl bed records exist between Stulaigh and South Uist, with four more between Stulaigh and Glas-Eilean Mòr. Southeast of Dubh-sgeir Mhòr a maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers record exists.

23.4.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit
  • Dredging (but not suction dredging) for scallops prohibited in part of the area from 1 May till 24 August each year
  • Suction dredge prohibited all year in part of the area Fishing for any species of sea fish except king scallops and queen scallops with a trawl, Danish seine or similar net, purse seine, ring net or dredge between 1st March and 31st October in each year in part of the area
  • All methods of fishing for king scallops or queen scallops between 1st March and 30th April in each year in part of the area
  • All methods of fishing for king scallops or queen scallops between 25th August and 31st October in each year in part of the area

23.5 Loch Baghasdail (South Uist)

23.5.1 Description and background

Loch Baghasdail (South Uist) proposed PMF management area covers the waters of Loch Baghasdail out to just past Calbhaigh. This area was selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds;
  • Northern sea fan and sponge communities, and
  • Seagrass beds

23.5.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.5.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

Option 2 has a northern sea fan and sponge communities record not captured in Option 1 as it could be naturally protected by the topography here (stepped bedrock).

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint that more closely follows maerl bed and seagrass records and incorporates a record of northern sea fan and sponge communities. Additional fishing data were provided and have been accommodated where possible.

Figure 183. Loch Baghasdail (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows area for measures will extend from the head of Loch Baghasdail outwards just past Calbhaigh. A maerl bed record is evident inside the loch on the other side of the headland to the Lochboisdale ferry terminal. A seagrass bed is evident south of Calbhaigh, while northwest of Calbhaigh there is a second maerl record and a northern sea fan and sponge communities record.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint at the mouth of the loch that includes a northern sea fan and sponge communities record.

Figure 184. Loch Baghasdail (South Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows area for measures will extend from the head of Loch Baghasdail outwards just past Calbhaigh and a short way north of the mouth of the Loch. A maerl bed record is evident inside the loch on the other side of the headland to the Lochboisdale ferry terminal. A seagrass bed is evident south of Calbhaigh, while northwest of Calbhaigh there is a second maerl record and a northern sea fan and sponge communities record. A second northern sea fan and sponge communities record exists just north of the mouth of the loch, in the area not included in option 1.

23.5.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Dredging (but not suction dredging) for scallops prohibited in part of the area from 1 May till 24 August each year
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.6 Loch Seaforth (Lewis)

23.6.1 Description and background

Loch Seaforth (Lewis) proposed PMF management area covers the entire inland area of Loch Seaforth, extending to the mouth of the loch at Rhenigdale. This area was selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds

There are also northern sea fan and sponge communities records present in Option 2, but they were not the focus for this area selection.

23.6.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.6.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint focussed on the maerl bed records towards the head of the loch.

Figure 185. Loch Seaforth (Lewis) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows area for measures covers the inner area of Loch Seaforth down a short way past Seaforth Island. Two maerl bed records exist in the strait just north of Seaforth island near Grigaspool.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint and extends to cover northern sea fan and sponge communities at the mouth of the loch. There is a northern sea fan and sponge communities record excluded that lies outside the boundary for this option as it is a record from 1988.

Figure 186. Loch Seaforth (Lewis) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Two maerl bed records exist in the strait just north of Seaforth island near Grigaspool and two northern sea fan and sponge communities records exist near the mouth of the loch near Rhenigdale.

23.6.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.7 Lochs Tamnabhaigh, Tealasbaigh, Reasort, and Crabhadail (Harris)

23.7.1 Description and background

Lochs Tamnabhaigh, Tealasbaigh, Reasort, and Crabhadail (Harris) proposed PMF management area covers the waters of Lochs Tamnabhaigh, Tealasbaigh, Reasort, and Crabhadail; and the area of sea between them. This area was selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds;
  • Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers; and
  • Northern sea fan and sponge communities

23.7.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.7.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

The boundary was developed to encompass the records of these features and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management area.

Figure 187. Lochs Tamnabhaigh, Tealasbaigh, Reasort, and Crabhadail (Harris) proposed PMF management area
Map shows the area for measures covering Lochs Tamnabhaigh, Tealasbaigh, Resart, and Crabhadail and the adjoining waters. The area's western boundary sits just east of Fladday in the south and Staca Liath in the north. A maerl bed record is found just east of Grèine Sgeir, with two maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers records in Loch Tealasbaigh. Two northern sea fan and sponge communities records are found on the Meall a' Chruidh headland just south of the mouth of Loch Tealasbaigh.

23.7.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.8 Pabaigh, South-East (Sound of Harris)

23.8.1 Description and background*

Pabaigh, South-East (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area covers a small area on the southeast coast of Pabaigh. This area was selected to protect:

  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.8.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.8.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to closely follow the extent of the seagrass bed polygon and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management area.

Figure 188. Pabaigh, South-East (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area
Map shows an area extending from Traigh Baile Fo Thuath on the southeast coast of Pabaigh to be protected. A large seagrass bed occupies most of this area.

23.8.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.9 Pabaigh, South (Sound of Harris)

23.9.1 Description and background*

Pabaigh, South, (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area covers an area just to the south of Pabaigh. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.9.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.9.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to closely follow the extent of the seagrass bed polygon and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management area.

Figure 189. Pabaigh, South, (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area
Map shows an area a short way off Traigh an t-Seana-chaisteil on the south coast of Pabaigh for measures. A seagrass bed extends across most of the area.

23.9.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.10 Aird an t-Sruith (Sound of Harris)

23.10.1 Description and background*

Aird an t-Sruith (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area covers a small area to the northwest of Leverburgh in the Sound of Harris. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.10.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.10.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to closely follow the extent of the seagrass bed polygon and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed management area. Point data and polygon data for seagrass beds are shown in the map.

Figure 190. Aird an t-Sruith (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area
Map shows a small area north of Leverburgh where measures will apply. A seagrass bed is believed to cover the majority of this area, with a confirmed record of this in the centre of the area.

23.10.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.11. Easaigh and Celeigraigh (Sound of Harris)

23.11.1 Description and background*

Easaigh and Ceilegraigh (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area covers the southeastern coast of Easaigh, the southern and eastern coasts of Ceilegraigh, and the waters south and east of these islands. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds; and
  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.11.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.11.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint composed of two discrete locations that encompass maerl bed and seagrass bed records.

Figure 191. Easaigh and Ceilegraigh (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows two distinct areas in which measures will apply. One is southwest of Ceilegraigh running parallel to the island as far south as Langa Sgeir. In this area there are two maerl bed records. The other covers the southeast coast of Easaigh, the east coast of Celegraigh, and stretches southeast to the waters just west of Langaigh. There are seagrass beds throughout this area, with large beds on the Easaigh coast and east of Celegraigh. Several point data for seagrass beds are found in the southeastern extent of this area.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint that merges the two discrete locations in Option 1, and includes additional suitable habitat that could support maerl beds or potentially maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers.

Figure 192. Easaigh and Ceilegraigh (Sound of Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows a single area in which measures will apply. The eastern boundary runs from the headland on the east coast of Easaigh down to Langaigh, this area extends furthest westward in the north, surrounding all but the northern coast of Celegraigh. This area joins up the two discrete areas in Option 1. There are two maerl bed records southwest of Celegraigh. There are seagrass beds throughout the area east of Celegraigh, with large beds on the Easaigh coast and southeast of Celegraigh. Several point data for seagrass beds are found in the southeastern extent of this area.

23.11.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.12 Berneray (East) Sound of Harris

23.12.1 Description and background*

Berneray (East) Sound of Harris proposed PMF management area covers an area of waters extending eastwards some way from Berneray in the Sound of Harris. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.12.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.12.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to include known seagrass bed records and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management area. Point data and polygon data for seagrass beds are shown in the map.

Figure 193. Berneray (East) Sound of Harris proposed PMF management area
Map shows the area for measures extending southeast from Berneray over the neighbouring skerries and islets. Throughout this area there are numerous seagrass beds, and point records of seagrass, in particular in the centre and south of the area.

23.12.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.13 Boreray and Berneray (North Uist)

23.13.1 Description and background*

Boreray and Berneray (North Uist) proposed PMF management area covers a patch of water between the east coast of Boreray and the southwest coast of Berneray. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.13.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.13.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to include known seagrass bed records and no additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management area. Point data and polygon data for seagrass beds are shown in the map.

Figure 194. Boreray and Berneray (North Uist) proposed PMF management area
Map shows the area for measures spanning the waters between Boreray and Berneray, stretching towards but not reaching the coast of Lingeigh. Seagrass beds are evident in the west of the area, with two large beds and numerous point records. A smaller bed is evident near the Berneray coast.

23.13.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.14 Rangas, Bhotarsaigh, and Sursaigh (North Uist)

23.14.1 Description and background*

Rangas, Bhotarsaigh and Sursaigh (North Uist) proposed PMF management area covers the waters from Sursaigh westwards to the North Uist mainland. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.14.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.14.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint that includes the maerl bed records and uses simple boundary lines from headlands.

Figure 195. Rangas, Bhotarsaigh and Sursaigh (North Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows the area for measures extending from just east of Sursaigh westwards to the North Uist coast, taking in Bhotarsaigh and the other islands between Sursaigh and the mainland. Maerl bed records exist both just off the North Uist coast and south of Sursaigh.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint with additional habitat of suitable depths for maerl beds.

Figure 196. Rangas, Bhotarsaigh and Sursaigh (North Uist) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows the area for measures extending from just east of Sursaigh westwards to the North Uist coast, taking in Bhotarsaigh and the other islands between Sursaigh and the mainland. This option extends further north than option 1. Maerl bed records exist both just off the North Uist coast and south of Sursaigh.

23.14.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.15 Sound of Taransay and West Loch Tarbert (Harris)

23.15.1 Description and background*

Sound of Taransay and West Loch Tarbert (Harris) proposed PMF management area covers the waters between the Harris mainland and Taransay and the sheltered area in which it sits, from Amhuinnsuidhe in the north to the peninsula southwest of Taransay. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds;
  • Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers; and
  • Seagrass beds

*This proposed PMF management area overlaps with the West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA.

23.15.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

This PMF management area overlaps with management measures being consulted on for West Coast of the Outer Hebrides SPA for set nets (including fyke nets) which are not shown in the maps below.

Please check overlapping site map option(s) to see static gear measures.

23.15.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas.

Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint which more closely reflects the known PMF records.

Figure 197. Sound of Taransay and West Loch Tarbert (Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows the area for measures covering the waters east of Uidh, its western extend runs from Amhuinnsuidhe down to Uidh and across from the southern point of Uidh to Horgabost. Seagrass beds are found along the coast of Uidh and just north of Horgabost, with maerl bed records in the narrow strait leading to Tarbert and by Soay Mòr. Maerl or coarse shell gravel beds with burrowing sea cucumbers are also evident in the north of the area.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint, which extends to the southwest including additional habitat at depths suitable for the PMFs.

Figure 198. Sound of Taransay and West Loch Tarbert (Harris) proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows the area for measures covering the waters east and south of Uidh, its western extend runs from Amhuinnsuidhe down to Uidh and across from the southern point of Uidh to Geo na Gainmhich. Seagrass beds are found along the coast of Uidh and just north of Horgabost, with maerl bed records in the narrow strait leading to Tarbert and by Soay Mòr. Maerl or coarse shell gravel beds with burrowing sea cucumbers are also evident in the north of the area.

23.15.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for any species of sea fish with a suction dredge is prohibited
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.16 Sgeir an Fhèidh (South Uist)

23.16.1 Description and background

Sgeir an Fhèidh (South Uist) proposed PMF management area covers the waters surrounding Sgeir an Fhèidh across to the adjacent South Uist coast. This site was chosen to protect:

  • Maerl beds

23.16.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.16.3 Options under consideration

A single management option has been developed for this PMF management area. Only one option was identified due to one of, or combination of, evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations.

This was developed to include known maerl bed records and to accommodate additional fishing data provided.

Figure 199. Sgeir an Fhèidh (South Uist) proposed PMF management area
Map shows an area adjoining the South Uist coast with Sgeir an Fheidh in the northeastern portion. Two maerl beds are evident slightly southwest of Sgeir an Fheidh.

23.16.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Dredging (but not suction dredging) for scallops prohibited in part of the site from 1 May till 24 August each year
  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

23.17 South-East Barra and Vatersay

23.17.1 Description and background

South-East Barra and Vatersay proposed PMF management area covers a small patch of waters southeast of Vatersay. This area has been selected to protect:

  • Maerl beds; and
  • Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers.

23.17.2 Fisheries management measures proposed

PMF management areas will be closed to demersal trawls and seines, beam trawls, mechanical dredges, and hydraulic dredges. This is because the features present in these areas are sensitive to these gear types.

23.17.3 Options under consideration

Two options have been developed for this for this PMF management area. Option 1 reflects a smaller footprint that reflects one, or a combination of evidence (fishing activity or PMF related), boundary setting principles and compliance considerations. Option 2 covers a larger footprint that offers improved protection.

No additional fishing data were provided within the proposed PMF management areas. Option 1: This boundary covers a smaller footprint that encompasses the PMF records and additional habitat at depths suitable for the PMFs. It partly follows the boundary of the Sound of Barra SAC in the north-east of the area.

Figure 200. South-East Barra and Vatersay proposed PMF management area Option 1
Map shows two discrete areas for measures; a small area southeast of Vatersay and just west of Muldonaich, and a larger area running along the southeast coast of Barra starting east of Castlebay and running up to Bruernish, stretching a short way into the waters to the southwest. A concentration of maerl bed records is evident in the area near Vatersay, with two more concentrations in the southern tip of the larger area and in the eastern extent of the larger area, where three maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumber records are also evident. Within the larger area there are other maerl bed records scattered southwest of Aird Rubha Mor.

Option 2: This boundary covers a larger footprint offering improved protection. It follows the boundary of the Sound of Barra SAC in the north-east of the area.

Figure 201. South-East Barra and Vatersay proposed PMF management area Option 2
Map shows two discrete areas for measures; a small area southeast of Vatersay and just west of Muldonaich, and a larger area running along the southeast coast of Barra starting east of Castlebay and running down to Muldonaich and up to Bruernish. This option also extends further northeast than option 1. A concentration of maerl bed records is evident in the area near Vatersay, with two more concentrations in the southern tip of the larger area and in the eastern extent of the larger area, where three maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumber records are also evident. Within the larger area there are other maerl bed records scattered southwest of Aird Rubha Mor.

23.17.4 Other fisheries management measures currently applying to this area

There are already management measures in place. An effort has been made to identify existing measures which affect each individual site or area, however the list may not be exhaustive. These measures are outlined below, and the proposals for further management being consulted on now are in addition to these existing measures:

  • Fishing for sandeel is prohibited within the Scottish zone, which is defined as the sea adjacent to Scotland up to the 200 nautical miles limit

Contact

Email: marine_biodiversity@gov.scot

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