World-renowned experts, scientists, conservationists and policy-makers met this week to bring together the latest research into the basking shark – a true leviathan of our seas.

A number of conservation achievements were discussed, actions identified and further work agreed. The final day of the conference (Thursday 6 August) saw the coming together of members of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) steering group for the basking shark, organised by The Wildlife Trusts.

The context of this meeting was set around the significant achievements made in the last year in the form of the upcoming Marine and Coastal Access Bill – expected to receive Royal Assent towards the end of this year - and legislation for Scotland, and comparative legislation for Northern Ireland, expected in 2010/2011.

Whereas in the past actions have been to further our knowledge and understanding of the species and its threats, this meeting focused particularly on the applicability, purpose and needs for using Marine Conservation Zones – which need to be designated by 2012 to enable the UK to meet international obligations - for the species.

Amongst the recognition of - and need for further information about - threats, such as fisheries bycatch, pollution and ship strikes, the group agreed on the sites which would provide ideal candidates for Marine Conservation Zones:
• Sites which have highly diverse assemblies of species, such as harbour porpoise, minke whales and common dolphins
• Sites which represent critical habitat for the species (important for feeding, courtship behaviour, mating and nursery grounds)

The BAP group intends to subsequently feed its recommendations into the various relevant authorities.
Lissa Goodwin, marine policy officer, commented: “Delegates have been treated to an excellent week. The BAP group collectively has a powerful voice, representing shark experts from all over the UK.

“Knowledge and understanding was advanced, with real conservation objectives pursued and headline points made, specifically for the basking shark. Many participants were also lucky enough to take a boat trip, encountering basking sharks in groups of three or four up to a fantastic aggregation of 21 individuals sighted from Niarbyl.

“It was a truly fantastic end to the week and a chance for everyone to be reminded of why we were meeting, and why it is so important to protect this iconic species.”