Finding Sanctuary today launches an online tool, the Interactive Map, so that people with an interest in the sea can get involved in planning Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) across the South West.
This project is using cutting-edge web technology to ensure people across the region can get involved and have their say. Everyone with an active interest in the sea, such as fishermen, sea anglers, wildlife watchers, divers, leisure boaters and watersports enthusiasts, are invited to use Finding Sanctuary’s Interactive Map to explore which areas of sea are important to them.
Tom Hooper, Finding Sanctuary Project Manager says: “Finding Sanctuary is breaking new ground; we are planning Marine Conservation Zones from the bottom up – by working closely with people who use the sea. The Interactive Map will help us to do this, by encouraging public participation at an unprecedented level.”
Tom continues: “Finding Sanctuary’s Interactive Map lets you create a map showing the sea areas you use and what you know about those areas. For example, if you are a diver, you can map your dive sites and what species you know occur at those sites.”
The information that sea users contribute through Finding Sanctuary’s Interactive Map will help to determine the best locations for MCZs. Finding Sanctuary’s aim is to design the MCZs so that they cause the least disturbance to people who use the sea, and have the most benefits for conservation.
Tom explains: “Finding Sanctuary’s Interactive Map gives everyone with an interest in the sea the opportunity to be involved in shaping the Marine Conservation Zone network. We want to show that it is possible to protect the marine environment, through a process that represents the interests of a wide range of stakeholders”
The Interactive Map also allows you to explore maps showing the extensive layers of information that the project is gathering.
Tom says: “As we gather more information, it will be added to the Interactive Map for you to explore. Already it allows you to investigate where different habitats occur, and the pattern of use by inshore fishermen. As more people contribute information through the Interactive Map, you will be able to view where other recreational and commercial activities take place around the coast. The more people that use the Interactive Map, the better Marine Conservation Zones can be planned”.
To use the Interactive Map to explore your area and share your information visit www.finding-sanctuary.org and follow the links to ‘Interactive Map’.
If you don’t have access to the internet but would still like to get involved with Finding Sanctuary please call Finding Sanctuary on 01392 878 328 and we will put you in touch with your local liaison officer.
For more information about Finding Sanctuary visit www.finding-sanctuary.org or contact Tom Hooper, Project Manager, Finding Sanctuary on tel: 01392 878327 or mobile: 07771 838533 or email tom.hooper@southwestfoodanddrink.com
