New pilots will look at ways of improving the management of inshore fisheries to ensure coastal communities make the most of their waters, Fisheries Secretary Fergus Ewing has said.
The Scottish Government will work with the industry over the coming weeks to identify areas which could host the pilots.
The first trial will test a more localised approach to fisheries management, where fishing interests will be responsible for developing distinct local arrangements, while a second pilot will trial the impact of separating different methods of fishing, such as creeling and trawling, in an area.
The pilots will investigate whether there are new and innovative ways of sustainably maximising the benefits of the sector.
Mr Ewing said: “With some of our best seafood sourced from inshore waters, the sector plays a crucial role in our rural economy so we need to do all we can to help it thrive.
“Giving communities more management control gives them a sense of ownership and an opportunity to work together to find solutions that best meet their needs.”
New pilot scheme looks at improving creel fishing management
27 May 2017