Commercial fishery for razor clams using electric current gear consultation: strategic environmental assessment screening
A screening determination report of the environmental effects associated with the outcomes expected from the planned consultation on a commercial fishery for razor clams in Scotland.
18. Summary of the interactions with the environment and statement of the findings of the screening
Advice sought from NatureScot has identified likely significant effects requiring formal appraisal through the Habitats Regulations, as well as a Nature Conservation MPA assessment and an assessment of impacts on relevant PMFs with reference to General Policy 9b of Scotland’s National Marine Plan. This advice was in relation to the continuation of the trial. We are seeking views on either terminating the trial and returning to prohibition, continuing the trial for a further period or in a different configuration, or moving to a commercial fishery. It is likely that the same considerations viewed as relevant by NatureScot would apply in the latter two consultation outcomes. Prohibition would likely result in a degree of IUU fishing and it is necessary to assess the potential impact of this.
Therefore, a Strategic Environmental Assessment is required.