BBC 'Oceans' presenter to speak at Finding Sanctuary Workshop 23 June
Explorer, diver and TV presenter Paul Rose is to take part in this special event designed to encourage more recreational water users to get involved with the development of Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) in the South West.
On Wednesday, 23rd of June, Paul will take part in the Finding Sanctuary Recreational Workshop which is being held in Exeter. As well as acting as guest speaker, Paul will be on hand as initial findings of the Finding Sanctuary project are presented – so far almost 150,000 West Country water users have had their views represented in the research which looks at how people use the region’s waters for commercial activity and leisure.
It is this information which will be used to ensure that all interests are taken into account when deciding where Marine Conservation Zones should be placed and what activities need to be restricted within those zones. It is work that has a particular interest for Paul who as well as being a TV presenter is also the former base commander for the British Antarctic Survey, a veteran polar expedition leader, mountaineer and a professional diver/instructor.
According to Paul: “Now is the time for action and I believe that with projects like Finding Sanctuary we have an opportunity to make a difference by protecting specialist habitats and by adapting our behaviour in sensitive zones. There is an important balance to be struck between conservation and human activities - Finding Sanctuary is giving coastal communities a voice in these important decisions”.
As well as hearing from Paul, those who attend the event will also be able to meet the people who represent their interests on the Finding Sanctuary Steering Group - the Group will create recommendations for the creation of Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs). These recommendations will be submitted to Government in June 2011. The Steering Group is a panel of individuals representing a wide range of marine interests from commercial fishermen to anglers, kayakers and sailors to divers and some of them will be speaking at the June event. Other speakers include David Mitchell from the Angling Trust, Caroline Price - RYA / The Green Blue and Annette Cole from South West Tourism.
Places are limited -To book your place contact Sarah McLintock.
E-mail: sarah@finding-sanctuary.org Tel: 01392 878 340
Download a flyer below.
