Proposal for Fisheries Management Measures for the protection … · 2018-02-02 · Proposal for...

Proposal for Fisheries Management Measures for the

protection of reef structures (H1170) in Natura 2000

sites located in the Belt Sea and the Danish part of

the Western Baltic Sea (within 12 nautical miles)

Submission to the European Commission

Proposal for Fisheries Management Measures under art. 11 and 18 of Regulation (EU) No

1380/2013 of The European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the

Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No

1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and

Council Decision 2004/585/EC

Proposal for fisheries management measures in Danish Natura 2000 sites in the western Baltic Sea – FINAL

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Content

Summary .................................................................................................................................... 3 Sammenfatning ............................................................................................................................ 4 1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 5

1.1 General remarks .................................................................................................................. 5

1.2 Overall aim of the present proposal ........................................................................................ 5

1.3 Recommendations to be implemented .................................................................................... 6

2. Legal framework ....................................................................................................................... 8 2.1 Common Fisheries Policy ...................................................................................................... 8

2.2 Access to the Danish Natura sites .......................................................................................... 9

2.3 Implementation of Natura 2000 in Denmark ............................................................................ 9

2.3.1 Designation of Natura 2000 sites in Denmark .................................................................... 9

2.3.2 Mapping of marine Natura 2000 sites ............................................................................. 10 3. Process .................................................................................................................................. 12

3.1 National coordination and consultation ................................................................................. 12

3.1.1 Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum ........................................................................................ 12

3.1.2. Meetings with stakeholders .......................................................................................... 13 3.1.3. Involvement of Parliament and Committees within the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries ............................................................................................................................. 14 3.1.4. Peer review of the proposal .......................................................................................... 14

3.2 International coordination – regionalization ........................................................................... 14

3.2.1. Pre-consultations ........................................................................................................ 14 3.2.2 Regionalization – Scheveningen Natura 2000 working group ............................................. 15

3.2.3 Informal consultations with other Member States ............................................................ 15 3.2.4 Consultations with Advisory Councils .............................................................................. 16

4. Principles and rationale ............................................................................................................ 17 5. Scope of the present proposal .................................................................................................. 20

5.1 Description of the Natura 2000 sites concerned ..................................................................... 20

5.1.1 Natura 2000 site: Munkegrund ...................................................................................... 23 5.1.2 Natura 2000 site: Hatterbarn ........................................................................................ 24 5.1.3 Natura 2000 site: Ryggen ............................................................................................. 25 5.1.4 Natura 2000 site: Broen ............................................................................................... 26

5.1.5 Natura 2000 site: Ertholmene ....................................................................................... 27 5.1.6 Natura 2000 site: Davids Banke .................................................................................... 28 5.1.7 Natura 2000 site: Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund .................................................................. 29

5.2 Description of proposed fisheries management measures ....................................................... 29

5.2.1 Purpose of the present proposal .................................................................................... 29 5.2.2 Assessment of adequacy and proportionality ................................................................... 30

6. Restriction of fisheries within the Danish Natura 2000 sites .......................................................... 32 6.1 Fleet activity and type of fisheries ........................................................................................ 32

6.2 Target species and annual trends ......................................................................................... 34

6.3 Displacement .................................................................................................................... 47

6.4 Control, enforcement and monitoring ................................................................................... 47

6.4.1 Control and enforcement .............................................................................................. 47 6.4.2 The national monitoring program – NOVANA ................................................................... 48

References ................................................................................................................................. 50 List of Annexes ........................................................................................................................... 52


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Summary For the implementation of the EU Nature directives (Habitat and Birds Directives), Denmark has designated 97

marine Natura 2000 sites in Danish territorial waters of the Western Baltic, Kattegat, Skagerrak and the North

Sea. A total of 65 sites have been designated for reef structures with the following habitat codes: H1170

(reefs) and H1180 (submarine structures made by leaking gasses). In general, the conservation status of reef

structures in the Danish Natura 2000 sites are classified as unfavourable due to physical disturbances and

high nutrient content in the water column.

The overall aim of the present proposal is to ensure adequate protection of reef structures from fisheries,

and thereby contribute to the obligation of achieving favourable conservation status for these habitat types

in accordance with Article 6 (2) of the Habitats Directive.

The present proposal entails fishery management measures in seven Natura 2000 sites located in the

Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea between the baseline and 12 nautical miles:

1. Munkegrund (EU site code: DK00VA304)

2. Hatterbarn (EU site code: DK00VA255)

3. Ryggen (EU site code: DK00VA253)

4. Broen (EU site code: DK00VA256)

5. Ertholmene (EU site code: DK007X079)

6. Davids Banke (EU site code: DK00VA308)

7. Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund (EU site code: DK00VA310)

Fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting gears is proposed to be prohibited in areas mapped as reefs

(habitat code H1170). The reef structures mapped in the Natura 2000 sites will be protected from impact

from fishing activity by placement of buffer zones around reef structures.

Scientific advice from Aarhus university (Danish Centre for Environment and Energy), DTU Aqua (The

Danish Technical University, (Institute for Aquatic Resources) and ICES alongside the site specific Natura

2000 management plans and mapping of marine habitats, serve as the basis for the proposed fisheries

management measures.

Sweden and Germany have fishing rights in the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea within 12 nautical

miles. The Western Baltic Sea is an important fishing area for both Denmark, Germany and Sweden.

Analysis of fishery data show, that the proposed management measures will have no or limited impact on

Danish, Swedish and German fishing activity when looking at the period 2010-2012. In general, fishing

does not take place in areas characterized as reefs in these areas. However, it is important to ensure full

protection of these reef structures in accordance with the Habitats Directive.

It is the intention of the Danish government (initiating Member State) to take measures i.a. with respect to

fishing activities exercised by all vessels including fishing vessels carrying the flag of other Member States

of the EU. In order to apply these measures to all vessels, Denmark, as the initiating Member State, has in

accordance with EP/Council Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the Common Fisheries Policy (Basic

Regulation), consulted Germany and Sweden, the Baltic Sea Advisory Council, ICES and the Commission,

national fishermen associations/organizations and NGOs.

The present proposal is submitted to the European Commission jointly by Denmark and Sweden in

accordance with the Basic Regulation, Article 11 and 18. A similar proposal for fisheries management

measures for protection of reef structures have been formulated for three Natura 2000 sites located in the

Danish part of the Kattegat. Germany abstains and thereby does not hinder Denmark and Sweden from

jointly recommending the proposed fisheries management for protection of reef structures, cf. MoU

(BALTFISH) 3.1.11.


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Sammenfatning

Danmark har som led i implementeringen af EU’s naturdirektiver (habitat- og fuglebeskyttelsesdirektivet)

udpeget 97 marine Natura 2000 områder i den danske del af denvestlige Østersø, Kattegat og Skagerrak.

Der er i alt udpeget 65 Natura 2000 områder for rev med habitatkoderne H1170 (rev) og H1180 (boblerev

med udsivende methangas fra undergrunden). Revs bevaringsstatus er ifølge områdernes naturplaner

generelt angivet som ugunstig som følge af fysisk påvirkning og højt næringsstofindhold i vandsøjlen.

Den overordnede målsætning med nærværende forslag er, i overensstemmelse med habitatdirektivets

artikel 6, stk. 2, at sikre tilstrækkelig beskyttelse af revstrukturer i forhold til fiskeri som led i opnåelsen af

gunstig bevaringsstatus for disse habitattyper.

Nærværende forslag omfatter fiskeriregulering i syv Natura 2000 områder, som alle er lokaliseret i

Bælthavet og den vestlige Østersø mellem basislinjen og 12 sømilegrænsen:








Forslag til fiskeriregulering omfatter forbud mod anvendelse af bundgående redskaber i områder kortlagt

som rev (habitatkode H1170). De kortlagte revstrukturer sikres beskyttelse mod fiskeriaktiviteter ved

placering af en bufferzone omkring revene.

Videnskabelig rådgivning fra DTU Aqua (Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, Institut for Akvatiske Ressourcer),

Aarhus Universitet (Nationalt Center for Miljø og Energi) samt ICES danner sammen med områdernes

naturplaner grundlaget for de fremlagte forslag til fiskeriforanstaltninger.

Sverige og Tyskland har fiskerirettigheder i den danske del af den vestlige Østersø inden for 12 sømil.

Bælthavet og den vestlige Østersø er vigtige områder for især dansk, svensk og tysk fiskeri. Analyser af

fiskeriaktiviteter for perioden 2010-2012 viser dog, at de foreslåede fiskeriforanstaltninger ikke vil have

betydende effekt på den måde fiskeri udøves i Bælthavet og den vestlige Østersø. Generelt set fiskes der

ikke i områder kortlagt som rev. I henhold til habitatdirektivet er det midlertidigt vigtigt, at kortlagte

revstrukturer sikres fuld beskyttelse mod fysisk påvirkning.

Den danske regering ønsker (som initiativtagende medlemsstat), at gennemføre fiskeriforanstaltninger,

som gælder samtlige fartøjer, herunder fartøjer fra andre flagstater, som udøver fiskeri i de pågældende

Natura 2000 områder. For at de foreslåede foranstaltninger kan omfatte samtlige fartøjer, har Danmark i

overensstemmelse med EP/ Rådsforordning nr. 1380/ 2013 om den fælles fiskeripolitik

(Grundforordningen), konsulteret Sverige og Tyskland, det Rådgivende Råd for Østersøen (BSAC), ICES,

EU Kommissionen, nationale fiskeriforeninger/organisationer.

Nærværende forslag er fremsendt til EU Kommissionen i form af fælles henstilling af de danske og svenske

fiskerimyndigheder i overensstemmelse med artikel 11 og 18 i Grundforordningen. Et tilsvarende forslag til

fiskeriforanstaltninger for beskyttelse af rev i tre Natura 2000 områder i Kattegat er ligeledes udarbejdet.

Tyskland har valgt at afstå fra at have en holdning, hvormed Danmark og Sverige fortsat kan fremsende

det danske forslag for beskyttelse af rev i form af fælles henstilling.


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1. Introduction

1.1 General remarks This document contains a proposal for regulation of fishing activities in the Belt Sea and the Danish part of

the Western Baltic area for the protection of reef structures designated under the Habitats Directive.

For the implementation of the EU 2000 directives (Habitat1 and Birds Directives2), Denmark has designated

97 marine Natura 2000 sites in Danish territorial waters in the Western Baltic Sea, Kattegat, Skagerrak

and the North Sea, see Annex A for map of the Danish marine Natura 2000 network. A total of 65 Natura

2000 sites have been designated for reef structures (habitatcode: H1170 - reefs and H1180 – submarine

structures made of leaking gasses), also known as bubbling reefs.

The present proposal entails fisheries management measures in seven Natura 2000 sites located in the

Belt Sea and the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea between the baseline and 12 nautical miles:








A similar proposal for fisheries management measures have been formulated for protection of reef

structures in three Danish Natura 2000 sites in the Kattegat.

According to EP/Council Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 Annex I, Germany and Sweden have historical

fishing rights within 12 nautical miles in the Danish part of Western Baltic Sea.

It is the intention of the Danish government (initiating Member State) to take measures i.a. with respect to

fishing activities exercised by all vessels including fishing vessels carrying the flag of other Member States

of the EU.

This document covers the 11 information items of the Commission’s guidelines from 2008 concerning

development of proposals for fisheries management measures in marine Natura 2000 areas within the

scope of the Common Fisheries Policy (see Annex C for an overview of how the present proposal has

covered the information 11 items).

In order to apply these measures to all vessels, Denmark, as the initiating Member State, has in

accordance with EP/Council Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the Common Fisheries Policy (Basic

Regulation), consulted Sweden and Germany, the North Sea Advisory Council, ICES and the Commission,

as described in section 3.2. The present proposal is submitted to the European Commission jointly by

Denmark and Sweden in accordance with the Basic Regulation, Articles 11 and 18. Germany abstains and

thereby do not hinder Denmark and Sweden from jointly recommending the proposed fisheries

management.

1.2 Overall aim of the present proposal The overall aim of the present proposal is to ensure adequate protection of designated reef structures from

fisheries activities and thereby contribute to the obligation of achieving favourable conservation status for

1 Council Directive 92/43/EEC, of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1992L0043:20070101:EN:PDF 2 Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:020:0007:0025:en:PDF

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1992L0043:20070101:EN:PDF

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:020:0007:0025:en:PDF


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the habitat types with code H1170 in accordance with art. 6 (2) of the Habitats Directive, stating that

Member States shall take appropriate steps to avoid the deterioration of natural habitats and the habitats

of species as well as disturbance of the species for which the areas have been designated.

According to the Natura 2000 plans for the seven sites, fishery activities with mobile bottom contacting

gear is specified as a threat to reef structures3. The conservation status of the reef structures in the seven

sites is given as ‘unfavourable’ due to physical disturbances and a relatively high level of nutrients in the

water column. It is generally agreed that fishery activity with mobile bottom contacting gear has an impact

on reef structures – both in terms of physical disturbance to the reef structures as well as to the

biodiversity found at the reefs (Dahl 2005; Kaiser et al. 2002; ICES 2009)4. A detailed description of the

seven Natura 2000 sites is given in section 5.1.

Denmark (The Danish AgriFish Agency) is therefore proposing to restrict fishery with mobile bottom

contacting gear in areas mapped as reefs (habitat code H1170). The content of the proposed fisheries

management measures is explained in more detail in section 5.2. The proposed restrictions are identical

and supplementary to fisheries management measures in four coastal Natura 2000 sites under Danish

sovereignty, which came into force by 1 September 2013.

The proposal for protection of reef structures in three Natura 2000 sites in the Kattegat has been peer

reviewed by The Danish Technical University and Aarhus University (see section 3.1.4). The present

proposal is identical to that proposal except for the sections describing the Natura 2000 sites and fishery

data. Thus, the rationale and principles applied have been peer reviewed alongside the threat from fishing

in relation to reef structures.

1.3 Recommendations to be implemented The present proposal applies to:

- A ban for fishery activity with mobile bottom contacting gear in areas mapped as reefs (habitat

code H1170).

Protection of reefs (habitat code H1170)

The outlined zones with mapped reefs (habitat code 1170) will be closed for the following mobile bottom

contacting gear types (see table 1 for gear codes):

- Beam trawls

- Mobile bottom trawl / Otter trawl

- Seine nets (Danish and Scottish seines)

- Dredges

3 Link Management Plans: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/ 4 Dahl, K. 2005: Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s. – Faglig

rapport fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I. R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project.

123 pp.; ICES. 2006. Report of the Working Group on Ecosystem Effects of Fishing Activities (WGECO), 5 12 April 2006 , ICES Headquarters, Copenhagen. ACE:05. 174 pp.


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Table 1: Gear codes for the banned gear types.

Gear types that are banned in the closed zones

Habitat code Gear code Annex XI in EU Regulation No. 404/2011

International standard Classification of Fishing Gears (ISSCFG)

Beam trawl 1170 TBB TBB

Bottom trawl / otter trawl

1170 OTB, OTT, PTB, TBN, TBS, TB OTB, OTT, OTP, PTB, TB

Seine nets 1170 SDN, SSC, SX, SV SB, SV, SDN, SSC, SPR, SX

Dredges 1170 DRB DRB, DRH

The outline of the areas in which fisheries activities are proposed to be banned, are given in section 5.1.1-

5.1.3 and 6.2. Annex H gives the coordinates for the proposed buffer zones for the seven Natura 2000

sites.


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2. Legal framework This chapter describes the legal framework of the present proposal; the Common Fisheries Policy and the

implementation of Natura 2000 in Danish waters by the Danish government.

2.1 Common Fisheries Policy According to the Common Fisheries Policy (Reg. No 1380/2013 (The Basic Regulation)) Article 11, Member

States are empowered to adopt conservation measures not affecting fishing vessels of other Member

States that are applicable to waters under their sovereignty or jurisdiction and that are necessary to

comply with their obligations under Article 6 of Directive 92/43/EEC and Article 13(4) of 2008/56/EC.

Where a Member State (“initiating Member State”) considers that measures need to be adopted for the

purpose of complying with the obligations referred to above, and other Member States have a direct

management interest in the fishery to be affected by such measures, the European Commission shall be

empowered to adopt such measures, upon request, by means of delegated acts. For this purpose

cooperation between Member States having a direct management interest5 is foreseen with a view to

formulating a joint recommendation in agreement on draft fisheries management measures to be

forwarded to the Commission.

The initiating Member State shall provide the Commission and the other Member States having a direct

management interest with relevant information on the measures required, including their rationale,

scientific evidence in support and details on their practical implementation and enforcement. Member

States shall consult the relevant Advisory Councils.

The initiating Member State and the other Member States having a direct management interest may

submit a joint recommendation within six months from the provision of sufficient information. The

Commission shall adopt the measures, taking into account any available scientific advice, within three

months from receipt of a complete request (Reg 1380/2013, Articles 11 and 18).

Since Sweden and Germany have historical fishing rights within 12 nautical miles in the Baltic Sea

(including the Belt Sea, the Sound and Bornholm) the initiating Member State, has taken steps to jointly

propose a set of management measures, which will apply to all fishing vessels carrying out fishing

activities in the concerned sites.

The proposed fisheries management measures for protection of reef structures from fishery with certain

gear types is based on the Commission’s guidance document “Fisheries measures for marine Natura 2000

sites – A consistent approach to request for fisheries management measures under the Common Fisheries

Policy (2008)”’6. This document provides guidance on how Member States should prepare a proposal for

fisheries management measures within the CFP framework, for delivering Natura 2000 conservation

objectives.

The guidance document provides the basis for the present proposal. The 11 information items given in the

guidance document, provides the structure of the present proposal. Annex C gives an overview of how the

present proposal deals with the 11 information items.

The following chapters describes how Denmark, as the initiating Member State, has taken the

Commission’s criteria for decision making into account – as well as the requirements for regional

coordination in line with the new Basic Regulation.

5 Basic Regulation 1380/2013, art. 4, § 1, no. 22; “Member State having a direct management interest means a Member

State which has an interest consisting of either fishing opportunities or a fishery taking place in the exclusive economic

zone og the Member State concerned”: http://eur-

lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:354:0022:0061:EN:PDF 6 Link Guidance document: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/marine/docs/fish_measures.pdf


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2.2 Access to the Danish Natura sites According to EP/Council Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 Annex I, Germany and Sweden have historical

fishing rights within 12 nm in the Danish part of the Baltic Sea area.

Denmark has therefore requested for Swedish and German fishery data for fishery activities carried out in

the Belt Sea and the Danish part of the Western Baltic area (ICES area IIIc, subdivisions 22 and 24) as

well as within the Natura 2000 sites for the period 2010-2012 – as required in the Commissions guidance

document from 2008 (information item 5 & 6).

Detailed descriptions of the fishing activities in and around the seven Natura 2000 sites: Munkegrund,

Hatterbarn, Ryggen, Broen, Ertholmene, Davids Banke and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund are given in section

6.1 and 6.2 and Annex J-K.

2.3 Implementation of Natura 2000 in Denmark The Act on Environmental Goals7 contains the legal framework for designation of Natura 2000 sites

according to the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) and the Birds Directive (2009/147) in Denmark. The

overall objective of the Habitats Directive of maintaining and restoring favourable conservation status is

nationally implemented in the Administrative Order No. 408/2007 together with the legal designation of

the sites. Until management plans have been adopted and site specific conservation objectives formulated,

the overall objective of favourable conservation status is to be followed.

According to the Environmental objective (§ 36 (6)), the Danish Ministry of Environment is the responsible

authority for the designation of Natura 2000 sites and for ensuring a representative network of protected

sites for the protection of unique, threatened and characteristic marine habitats and species in Danish

waters. Thus, the bilateral communication between Denmark and the European Commission, is handled by

the Ministry of Environment. The Ministry of Environment is also the responsible authority for the national

monitoring program (NOVANA) and for mapping marine habitats. The national monitoring program in

relation to the present proposal is decribed in more detail in section 6.4.2.

In Denmark, the main provisions of the Habitats Directive article 6 for protection and managing the Natura

2000 sites are sector implemented, i.e. the competent authority is responsible for implementing the

necessary measures identified through the Natura 2000 management plans. When it comes to the

regulation of fisheries, the Danish Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries is the responsible authority

for the supplementary fishery regulation. In June 2008, the Fisheries Act was amended to include the

Habitats Directives provisions8. Thus, in Denmark, the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries is the

responsible authority for ensuring adequate protection of marine habitats and species in relation to

fisheries.

2.3.1 Designation of Natura 2000 sites in Denmark

Denmark has in the period between 1998 and 2010 designated 97 Natura 2000 sites for the protection of

marine habitats and species. The designation has been done in accordance with the Administrative Order

No. 408, 1 May 20079 and subsequent amendments thereof, which designates and sets up the overall

conservation objectives as basis for the administration of Natura 2000 sites.

Annex B gives an overview of the designation of the concerned Natura 2000 sites from appointment as

PSCI site in 1995 for Hatterbarn, Ryggen and Broen and in 2002 for Munkegrund, Ertholmene, Davids

Banke and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund and as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC’s) in 2011.

7 Link Act on Environmental Goals: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=127102 8 Link Fisheries Act: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/r0710.aspx?id=121218 9 Link Administrative order no. 408, 1 May 2007: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=13043

https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=13043


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In December 2011, nature management plans were adopted for the sites designated before 201010. With

the adoption of the plans, the sites were also designated as SAC’s. Nature management plans are in the

process of being formulated for sites designated and/or amended after 2010. A second generation of

management plans for these areas as well as the first generation plans for sites designated in 2010 will be

published early 2016.

For sites designated before 2010, necessary fishery management measures must be formulated and

implemented before 2016, whereas the timeframe is 2021 for sites designated later. The present proposal

for fisheries management measures only contains fishery management measures for sites designated

before 2010.

The European Commission has officially announced that Denmark has designated sufficient area to ensure

a representative network of marine habitats and species. The Danish marine Natura 2000 network covers

17,6 pct. of Denmark’s marine waters. A map showing the 97 marine Natura 2000 sites is given in Annex

A.

The present proposal deals with the following seven Natura 2000 sites: Munkegrund, Hatterbarn, Ryggen,

Broen, Ertholmene, Davids Banke and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund. The table below gives information of the

marine habitats for which the seven sites have been designated, as well as the legal framework for

designation.

Table 2. Description of the seven Natura sites that the present proposal deals with

Site name Marine habitats Year of designation National Administrative Order

Munkegrund Reefs 1170 2002

Administrative order no. 408 of 1 May 2007:Sets out the framework

for designation, formulation of overall objectives and

administration of Natura 2000 sites in Danish waters

Hatterbarn Reefs 1170 1995

Ryggen Reefs 1170

1995

Broen Reefs 1170 1995

Ertholmene Reefs 1170 2002

Davids Banke Reefs 1170 2002

Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund

Reefs 1170 2002

2.3.2 Mapping of marine Natura 2000 sites

Mapping of marine habitats forms the basis for protection of marine habitats in relation to fishing activities.

In 2006, the Danish Nature Agency began the process of mapping marine habitat types within the Danish

Natura 2000 network, starting with locating bubbling reefs (H1180) in Kattegat. In 2011-2012, the Danish

Nature Agency published maps of reefs and sandbanks for 18 Natura 2000 sites in Kattegat and the

Western part of the Baltic Sea11.

The method of mapping marine Natura 2000 sites occur in three steps. In 2011, each of the 18 Natura

2000 site was examined using sidescan sonars producing a complete picture of the rugosity of the

10 Link Administrative order no. 1114, 25 November 2011: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=139270 11

Link: Report - Mapping of Natura 2000 sites in 2011: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/publikationer/alle-

publikationer/2013/dec/kortlaegning-af-natura-2000-habitaterne-boblerev-(1180)-rev-(1170)-sandbanker-(1110)/


http://naturstyrelsen.dk/publikationer/alle-publikationer/2013/dec/kortlaegning-af-natura-2000-habitaterne-boblerev-(1180)-rev-(1170)-sandbanker-(1110)/



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substrate of the sea floor. On the basis of this data, an initial map was produced – the so-called ‘first

generation habitat map. The collected data was then thoroughly studied and any abnormality or structures

in the sea bottom not easily classified as the various habitat types (reef, sandbanks etc.) was then

examined further, using either a scuba diver or remote operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with video

cameras. Through this process bubbling reefs were verified. In addition, a number of areas classified as

reefs, sandbanks, etc. were visited to ensure accurate classifications and to study the biological content of

the areas. On the basis of the complete data set, habitat maps were then created showing where within

the Natura 2000 sites, reef structures (H1170 and H1180) and sandbanks (H1110) are located.

Mapping of marine habitats in Danish Natura 2000 sites builds on the Danish definition of the habitat types

designated under the Habitats Directive. According to the Danish definition of stone reefs, an area is

classified as reef, if the coverage of hard substrate is above 25 pct.. Areas with a cover of hard substrate

of 10-25 pct. are also classified as reef, if the areas are directly connected to areas with a coverage of hard

substrate of 25 pct. or more.


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3. Process This chapter describes the process from when the initiative to protect reef structures from fisheries

activities in Danish marine Natura 2000 sites was launched in spring 2011 by the Ministry of Food,

Agriculture and Fisheries/Danish AgriFish Agency and until submission of fisheries management measures

in form of ‘A Joint Recommendation’ by Denmark and Sweden to the European Commission in [January

2015].

The following two sections (3.1 and 3.2) describe the national and international coordination processes,

which have taken place in the course of the last four years (2011-2014) in relation to the formulation of

fisheries management measures for protection of reef structures in Danish Natura 2000 sites.

3.1 National coordination and consultation National coordination and consultation with stakeholders in relation to Natura 2000 and fisheries take place

in the so-called ‘Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum’ as well as in the ministry’s committees. In addition to formal

consultations, informal consultations have also been held with stakeholders with the aim of discussing

protection of reefs in relation to fisheries at a more technical level. Annex E gives an overview of the

formal and informal consulations held since the initiative of protection of reefs from fisheries was launched

in spring 2011.

3.1.1 Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum

The Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum was launched in May 2010 by the Minister for Food, Agriculture and

Fisheries in order to actively involve relevant stakeholders with an interest in fishery and Natura 2000 in

the ministry’s work with the implementation of the Natura 2000 directives. The Natura 2000 Dialogue

Forum is chaired by the Danish AgriFish Agency and consists of representatives from NGOs, fishermen

organizations, research organizations and national authorities12. The Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum meets 2-

3 times a year and is the forum where the Danish AgriFish Agency presents upcoming proposals for

fisheries management measures and in general inform stakeholders of current state of play through open

discussions and dialogue.

Consultations in relation to the present proposal

A pre-draft of the present proposal was initially presented to the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum in March

2012. Reef types, size and spatial distribution within the particular Natura 2000 sites were in the pre-draft

of 2012 based on historical information. In November 2012, the Danish Ministry of Environment/Danish

Nature Agency published detailed maps of habitat types in 18 Natura 2000 sites, as described in section

2.3.2. Amongst these sites were the seven Natura 2000 sites, that the present proposal deals with. Thus,

all maps have been updated in order to take the new information into account. Updated maps of the 18

Natura 2000 sites were presented to the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum on November 16th 2012.

The present proposal was first presented to the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum in the meeting held on June

27th 2013, where also the first national order for protection of reefs in four coastal Natura 2000 sites under

Danish sovereignity was presented before the public hearing.

12 The following organizations participate in meetings in the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum: The Nature Agency, WWF,

GreenPeace, Oceana, Bird Life Denmark, The Danish Society for Nature Conservation, Danish Fishermen´s Association

and other local fishermen associations. Plus other NGOs with interests in the discussed topics are invited, e.g. The

Danish Hunters Association and ASCOBANS:

http://naturerhverv.dk/fileadmin/user_upload/NaturErhverv/Filer/Fiskeri/Natura_2000_hav/Natura_2000_dialogforum/R

evideret_kommissorium_for_N2000_Dialogforum_020513.pdf


13

Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum has been consulted in a parallel session with Sweden and Germany as well as

the Advisory Councils for the North Sea,respectively on the present proposal for fisheries management

measures. The Danish AgriFish Agency presented the proposed fisheries management measrues to the

Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum on 27 June 2014, where also a summary of the meeting with Member States

held on 26 June 2014 were given.

Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum was briefed on state of play regarding the Danish proposals on 7 November

2014 in relation to finalization of the two proposals with Sweden and Germany and drafting of joint

recommendations.

Outcome of consultations held

The Danish Fishermen Associations are supporting the proposed method of buffer zones and stress the

importance of site specific fisheries management measures rather than closure of entire Natura 2000 sites

as an adequate, specific and consequent regulation.

WWF, Oceana, Greenpeace and The Danish Society for Nature Conservation are concerned with the Danish

approach of buffer zones, especially if a given Natura 2000 site contains several reefs. The green NGOs are

of the opinion, that the proposed ban for fishery activitity with mobile bottom contacting gear should apply

to the entire Natura 2000 site, whereby also fish stocks will be protected.

The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries is of the opinion that the buffer zone method ensures

adequate protection of the reef structures in line with the provisions of the Habitats Directive and is in

accordance with scientific advice from both DTU Aqua and ICES (see Annex D). The area in which fishing

activity with mobile bottom contacting gear will be banned is designed per site taking into account, reef

size and spatial distribution within the Natura 2000 sites. Fish stocks such as cod and flat fish are not

included in the list of species, which the site has been designated for. Protection of fish stocks like cod and

flatfish falls within the scope of the Common Fisheries Policy. A range of fish species along side macro

algae etc. are used as indicators in relation to assessing the conservation status of reefs. Some studies

indicate that closure of even smaller areas for fishing, will have a significant effect of fish stock , e.g.

Moland et al. 201313.

The Danish AgriFish Agency argues that the aim of art. 6 (2, 3) of the Habitats Directive is to find the

balance between protection of marine habitats and species and management of fisheries activities. The

buffer zone approach meets that challenge by ensuring protection of the mapped reef structures whilst

allowing fishing activity in areas not mapped as reefs, taking into account the principles of proportionality

as described in section 4. The effect of the proposed management measures will be monitored through the

national monitoring program – NOVANA, where also the presence of fish stock is assessed. Aarhus

University carry out these assessements for the Danish Nature Agency, and annually report on

environmental status of the marine waters of Denmark14. The assessments are carried out in accordance

with the article 17 reporting to the European Commission.

3.1.2. Meetings with stakeholders

Bilateral meetings have been held with the Danish Fishermen’s Association in the fall of 2013. The purpose

of these meetings were to discuss the proposed ban for trawling with mobile bottom contacting gear in 10

Natura 2000 sites located within 12 nautical miles in the Kattegat and western Baltic as well as gillnet

fishing activities in areas mapped as bubbling reefs. Furthermore, the consultations were also aimed at

13

Moland E, Olsen EM, Knutsen H, Garrigou P, Espeland SH, Kleiven AR, Andre´ C, Knutsen JA. (2013): Lobster and cod benefit from small-scale northern marine protected areas: inference from an empirical before–after control-impact study. Proc R Soc B 280: 20122679. 14

Dahl, K. & Carstensen, J. (2008): Tools to assess conservation status on open water reefs in Natura 2000 areas. Nat Env R Inst, University of Aarhus, 25 pp. NERI Technical Report No. 663: http:// www.dmu.dk/Pub/FR663.pdf


14

obtaining a better understanding of the fishing pattern from smaller vessels in the 10 Natura 2000 sites.

The outcome of these meetings are centered around an in depth understanding of the fishing pattern in the

discussed Natura 2000 sites – also for the smaller vessels not obliged to carry VMS15. These discussions

support the analyses of fishing activity based on VMS, which the Danish AgriFish Agency in collaboration

with DTU Aqua have carried out, assuring that the proposed fisheries measures will have no or low impact

on current fishing activities for vessels above and below 12 meters.

3.1.3. Involvement of Parliament and Committees within the Ministry of Food,

Agriculture and Fisheries

The Danish Government has laid down national procedures for coordination of initiatives in relation to the

implementation of EU’s Natura 2000 directives and the reformed fisheries policy.

For initiatives, where Denmark act as the initiating Member State, The Danish Parliament must be informed

of the intended draft proposals for fisheries management measures prior to regional consultation. All

initiatives both launched by Denmark and by other Member States, where Denmark has direct

management interest, will be coordinated nationally with stakeholders through the Ministry’s national

committees and Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum. The Danish Parliament is informed of these initiatives before

joint recommendations are finalized for submission to the European Commission.

3.1.4. Peer review of the proposal

The rationale and principles applied in the present proposal has been peer reviewed by DTU Aqua (the

Danish Technical University, Institute for Aquatic Resources) and the Univerity of Aarhus (Danish Centre

for Environment and Energy). A peer review of the proposal ensures that, the proposed fisheries

management measures, along side the rationale and principles on which the proposal builds, are

scientifically sound. A peer review has also increased the scientific evidence in terms of references and

ensured that relevant scientific studies have been included.

The outcome of the peer review can, besides minor editorial changes, be summarized to:

i) scientific assessement of the rationale for a ban for fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting

gear in areas mapped as reefs (habitat code H1170 and H1180) and other type of fishery activity

in areas mapped as bubbling reefs (habitat code H1180) in relation to the documented

conservation status.

3.2 International coordination – regionalization The sections below describes the process, that the Danish AgriFish Agency has pursued with respect to the

present proposal in terms of international coordination and consultation with other Member States, the

European Commission and relevant Advisory Councils, see Annex F-G.

3.2.1. Pre-consultations

International coordination and consultations of the present proposal were launched in March 2012, when

Denmark in accordance with art. 9 in Regulation no. 2371/2002 invited German and Swedish fishery- and

environmental authorities, the Regional Advisory Council for the North Sea, ICES and the Commission to a

15

VMS (Vessel monitoring systems) is a satelitebased monitoring system, which is used in commercial fisheries – positions, times, course and speed of the fishing vessels are monitored and stored.


15

preconsultation meeting in Copenhagen. A booklet containing all the relevant information was sent out in

February 2012 containing information about the proposed fishery regulation16.

The recent mapping of marine habitats in the Kattegat area in 2011, has enabled the Danish AgriFish

Agency to include protection of more reef strucures in terms of area and number of sites in the present

proposal and that of the Baltic Sea. An updated version of the proposed fishery management measures

including updated maps was sent in a new pre-consultation to the relevant authorities in Sweden and

Germany alongside ICES, North Sea Advisory Council and the European Commission (DG MARE and DG

ENVI) on 6 June 2014 prior to the scheduled meeting on 26 June 2014 – a process in line with the

reformed fisheries policy of regionalization. The proposed management measures were simultaneously sent

to the members of the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum. A summary of the pre-consultation meeting on 26

June 2014 is given in Annex F. At the June meeting an ad hoc working group, chaired by the Danish

AgriFish Agency as the initiating Member State, was established with Sweden and Germany. A range

meeting were held between August and November 2014. The outcome of these meetings is given in Annex

F. Meetings in the ad hoc working group were held on:

- 27 August 2014

- 30 September 2014 (cancelled)

- 5 November 2014

- 4 December 2014

- 10 December 2014

Denmark, Sweden and Germany have consulted their national fishermen associations/organizations. The

Advisory Councils and NGOs have been consulted by Denmark as the initiating Member State, see Annex E.

3.2.2 Regionalization – Scheveningen Natura 2000 working group

The present proposal will be coordinated regionally in accordance with Article 11 and 18 of the reformed

fisheries policy (Basic Regulation) through the established ad hoc working group in accordance with the

Terms of Reference (ToR) for the BALTFISH cooperation. Sweden and Germany have fishing rights in

Danish waters within 12 nautical miles in the areas where the concerned Natura 2000 sites are located.

Draft ToR for a technical expert group within the scope of the BALTFISH cooperation are currently being

drafted. The draft ToR were discussed by the High Level Group of Fisheries Directors at their meeting on

28 April 2014. In accordance with the current draft ToR’s, Denmark, as the initiating Member State, will

take the lead in the ad hoc working group with Sweden and Germany. These Member States have finalized

the proposal for fisheries management measures for protection of reef structures in collaboration.

Germany, however, abtains from jointly forwarding the proposed measures to the Commission. This

position do not hinder Denmark and Sweden from jointly recommending the proposed fisheries

management measures (MoU BALTFISH corporation).

3.2.3 Informal consultations with other Member States

During the formulation of the present proposal, a range of informal meetings have been held with Sweden.

The focus of the informal meetings with the Swedish authorities have been to discuss the Danish approach

of buffer zones and to explore the possibility of a joint proposal for the Kattegat area. The informal

consultations have taken place on:

- 1 June 2011: meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark

- 17 January 2013: meeting in Göteborg, Sweden

- 10 October 2013: meeting in Göteborg, Sweden

16 Link to booklet: http://naturerhverv.dk/fileadmin/user_upload/NaturErhverv/Filer/Fiskeri/Natura_2000_hav/Rev/Forslag_til_fiskeriregulering_Kattegat.pdf

http://naturerhverv.dk/fileadmin/user_upload/NaturErhverv/Filer/Fiskeri/Natura_2000_hav/Rev/Forslag_til_fiskeriregulering_Kattegat.pdf



16

The informal discussions between Sweden and Denmark have resulted in Denmark solitarily proposing

fisheries management measures for Natura 2000 sites located within 12 nautical miles.

However, Denmark is still working towards a joint proposal with Sweden, for three Danish Natura 2000

sites (“Kims Top og den Kinesiske Mur”, “Store Middelgrund” and “Schultz, Hastens Grund og Briseis Flak”)

designated for the protection of reef structures (habitat codes H1170 and/or H1180) and sandbanks

(H1110) located in the Kattegat outside 12 nautical miles.

The Danish initiative for reef protection has also been presented at several workshops:

HELCOM/BALTFIMPA (March 2013, Copenhagen, Denmark), Ministry of Environment/Blue Reef workshop

(Copenhagen, April 2013), and the Nordic Marine Green Think Tank (October 2013, Helsingør, Denmark).

3.2.4 Consultations with Advisory Councils

The Advisory Councils for the Baltic Sea and North Sea, respectively, have also been consulted. The

Advisory Councils received the two proposals parallel to Sweden, Germany and the Danish Natura 2000

Dialogue Forum.

The Advisory Council for the Baltic Sea (BSAC) highly welcomes the Danish proposal for fisheries

management measures in the 7 Natura 2000 sites located in the Baltic Sea. During the formulation of the

present proposal, a range of informal meetings have been held with Sweden. The BSAC wish to follow the

process of finalizing the proposal.

The Advisory Council for the North Sea (NSAC) forwarded a range of comments identical to those of the

Danish Fishermen Association. NSAC recommends that buffer zones are made as small as possible and that

special focus is given to the analyses of fishery activity for furture sites to be protected.

A summary of the consultation with the Advisory Councils and Naura 2000 Dialouge Forum is given in

Annex F-G.


17

4. Principles and rationale Member States are responsible for ensuring favourable conservation status of designated marine habitats

and species in their respective Natura 2000 network and to take appropriate steps to avoid the

deterioration of natural habitats and the habitats of species as well as the disturbance of the species for

which the Natura 2000 site has been designated. In Denmark, this responsibility falls under the Ministry of

Food, Agriculture and Fishery in relation to fisheries. At the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fishery, the

Danish AgriFish Agency is responsible for formulation of fishery regulation as well as fishery control and

enforcement of implemented management measures.

In spring 2011, the Danish AgriFish Agency launched the initiative to ensure adequate protection of reef

structures designated under the Habitats Directive. Of the 97 marine Natura 2000 sites located in Danish

waters, 65 sites have been designated for reefs. A total of 30 of the 65 sites are located within the baseline

or in waters under Danish sovereignity.

Based on scientific advice from DTU Aqua Denmark has decided to protect reef structures (H1170 &

H1180) from physical disturbances due to fishing activities with mobile bottom contacting gears (see

section 5.2 and Annex D). The habitat type H1180 should also be protected from fishing activity with

passive gears like gillnets, longlines, pots and traps, since this habitat type is fragile in terms of physical

impact. DTU Aqua has advised, that a buffer zone equivalent to 6 times the average water depth (meters)

will ensure adequate protection of these reef structures from direct impact from fishing activitities, see

Annex D. The same method has been applied in the National Administrative Order of 28 August 201317,

which applies to protection of reef structures in four Danish coastal Natura 2000 sites. In June 2013, ICES

published a general advice on evaluation of the appropriateness of buffer zones, see Annex D. The ICES

advice is in line with scientific advice from DTU Aqua.

The rationale behind the buffer zone method is that reef structure in its full extent needs protection. Buffer

zones ensures that there is no potential threat from trawls to the reef structures – also if the vessels turn.

The overall aim of the present proposal is protection of reef structures from physical disturbances from

fisheries with mobile bottom contacting gears, which according to the Natura 2000 management plans are

adversely affecting the conservation status of these habitat types. Several scientific studies world wide

state that fishery with mobile contacting gears have a negative impact on reef structures (Dahl 2005;

Kaiser et al. 2002; ICES 2009)18

Over time, the proposed fisheries management measures are believed to significantly contribute to the

improvement of the conservation status of these habitat types (e.g. Dahl 2005; Fenberg et al. 2012; Collie

et al. 2000)19 and, ultimately, to the achievement of favourable conservation status. Full protection of reef

structures from fisheries is indicated as a priority action in all the Danish Natura 2000 management plans

for sites designated for reefs.

At a later stage, Denmark will take the initiative to protect reef structures in Danish waters outside 12

nautical miles in the North Sea as well as in the Baltic Sea, where also protection of sandbanks from

fisheries will be discussed.

17

Link Administrative order no. 1048 of 28 August 2013:

https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=158209 18

Dahl, K. (2005): Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s. – Faglig rapport

fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I. R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project. 123

pp. 19


fra DMU nr. 526; Fenberg P.B.*, Caselle J., Claudet J., Clemence M., Gaines S., García-Charton J.A., Gonçalves E., Grorud-Colvert K., Guidetti P., Jenkins S., Jones P.J.S., Lester S., McAllen R., Moland E., Planes S. and Sørensen T.K. (2012) The science of European marine reserves: status, efficacy and needs. Marine Policy 36(5), 1012-1021; Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Kaiser, M. J. and Poiner, I. R. (2000), A quantitative analysis of fishing impacts on shelf-sea benthos. Journal of Animal Ecology, 69: 785–798.



18

When formulating the present proposal, the following principles have been the focal points:

1. Sound scientific basis

Any proposal for fisheries management measures must be based on scientific evidence and advice

and take all relevant information into account. DTU Aqua has provided scientific advice in relation

to the principles and methods pursued in the present proposal – an advice which is supported by

ICES in terms of buffer zones (see Annex D).

Spatial distribution of the habitat types is central when designing fisheries management measures.

The Danish Nature Agency under the Ministry of Environment is the responsible authority in

Denmark for mapping the marine Natura 2000 sites. In November 2012, the Danish Nature Agency

published a detailed mapping exercise of Natura 2000 sites in inner Danish waters – 18 sites in

total. The present proposal builds upon this detailed mapping exercise.

2. Stakeholder involvement

An important element of the process of formulating fisheries management measures is stakeholder

involvement – nationally as well as internationally.

In Denmark, national coordination with stakeholders takes place in the ‘Natura 2000 Dialogue

Forum’, which was established in spring 2010 to ensure coordination with all stakeholders from

green NGOs to fishermens organizations, research bodies, authorities etc. The proposed fisheries

management measures have been discussed in the forum at all meetings since spring 2011, see

Annex E.

Internationally, any proposal for fisheries management measures, which might affect other

Member States must at an early stage be presented to ensure regional coordination. The present

proposal and buffer zone method was initially presented to German and Swedish authorities in

March 2012 at a meeting in Copenhagen, where also the North Sea Advisory Council, ICES and the

European Commission participated. The present proposal has been discussed with Sweden and

Germany in the established ad hoc working group comprising of representatives from fisheries and

environmental departments.

3. Regional coordination

According to the Basic Regulation Articles 11 and 18, Member States may submit joint

reccomendations on conservation measures that are necessary for the purpose of complying with

their obligations under the Common Fisheries Policy (Reg. No 1380/2013 (The Basic Regulation)).

The present proposal is jointly presented to the European Commission after regional coordination

with Member States having a direct management interest within the framework of the Terms of

Reference for the BALTFISH cooperation and the technical expert group/ad hoc working group in

relation to the reformed fisheries policy. A process, which was launched in March 2012 with a pre-

consultation meeting in Copenhagen followed by an additional pre-consulation meeting in

Copenhagen in June 2014 and meetings in the etabslished ad hoc working group with Sweden and

Germany.

4. Transparency

Transparency of data and the methodology which is used is important, and can only be achieved

through stakeholder involvement, regional coordination and use of scientific advice. The data used

to describe the fishing pattern and effort is based on log book and VMS data from the three

countries. In addition to VMS and log book data, information of fishing patterns for smaller Danish

vessels (<12 m) has also been used. In order to collect information of fishing patterns for smaller

Danish vessels, consultations have been held with the Danish Fishermen Association in fall 2013.

Sweden has also analysed the fishing pattern from smaller vessels.

5. Proportionality

The proposed management measures must balance sustainable exploitation of resources and the

need to conserve important habitats and species. This means that the proposed measures must


19

comply with the proportionality principle so they do not go further than necessary to ensure the

needed protection of the mapped reefs within the framework of the Habitats Directive.

Furthermore, no other and less burdening measures must be able to provide the same level of

necessary protection seen from a scientific and practical point of view. Consequently this means

that fishery is not prohibited in these areas, unless it is carried out with gears that can possibly

damage the mapped reefs. At the same time, the proposed management measures should be

possible to control and enforce. The present proposal concerns protection of reef structures. For

sites where the reef structures cover the majority of the site – the entire site is closed for fishing

activities, whereas for other sites, the area closed for fishing contains the reef(s) and the

surrounding 240 meter buffer zone – given as 6 times water depth set at an average depth of 40

meters for the area.

6. Non discrimination

The proposal must ensure that measures are applied in a non-discriminatory manner. A

coordinated approach between Member States having direct management interests is key to

ensuring non-discrimination of fleets affected by the proposed fisheries management measures.

This coordination must follow the steps laid down in the framework in the Basic Regulation of the

Common Fisheries Policy, thus ensuring a level playing field for the fishing sector potentially

affected.

The present proposal contains fisheries management measures for sites located within 12 nautical

miles in the Belt Sea and the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea – where Germany and Sweden

have historical fishing rights. Thus, the proposed fisheries management measures must be

coordinated in accordance with the Common Fisheries Policy (art. 11 and 18).


20

5. Scope of the present proposal In the first plan period (2010-2015), special focus should be given to the protection of reef structures from

any form of physical disturbances. The Danish AgriFish Agency launched the initiative to protect reef

structures from impact from fishing activity in spring 2011.

The present proposal aims at ensuring adequate protection of reef structures in seven Natura 2000 sites

located in the Belt Sea and the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea: Munkegrund, Hatterbarn, Ryggen,

Broen, Ertholmene, Davids Banke and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund. The present proposal is part of a larger

plan to implement the Habitats Directive in relation to the protection of reef structures in the 65 Natura

2000 sites designated for reefs in Danish waters. Denmark has designated 97 marine Natura 2000 sites, of

which 65 have been designated for reefs – habitat code H1170 and/or H1180.

The present proposal is identical to a similar proposal for the protection of reef structures in three Natura

2000 sites located in the Danish part of the Kattegat. All ten Natura 2000 sites are located in Danish

waters between within 12 nautical miles.

The principles and methods used in the present proposal and that of the Kattegat proposal, are identical to

those used in the first national administrative order for protection of reefs in four coastal Natura 2000

sites, which came into force on September 1st 201320, where the first fisheries management measures for

protection of reefs were launched. The national administrative order prohibits the usage of mobile bottom

contacting gear in four coastal Natura 2000 sites.

The following two sections describe the Natura 2000 sites in question and the proposed fisheries

management measures to be adopted in order to secure adequate protection of reef structures from fishing

activities in accordance with the Habitats Directive.

5.1 Description of the Natura 2000 sites concerned The present proposal concerns seven Natura 2000 sites located in the Belt Sea and the Western Baltic Sea:








The seven Natura 2000 sites and the habitat types found in the areas are described in section 5.1.1-5.1.7.

The seven Natura 2000 sites are solely designated for protection of the marine habitat reefs (habitat code

H1170).

The conservation status for the reef structure (H1170) is given as unfavourable for all seven Natura 2000

sites. The annual assessment reports on environmental status do not contain information in relation to

physical disturbances of reefs, however, it is generally accepted and documented, that fishery with mobile

bottom contacting gear has an irreversible impact on reef structure and function (Dahl 2005; Kaiser et al.

2002; ICES 2009)21.

20 Link Administrative order no. 1048 of 28 August 2013:


21


fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I. R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the


21

The aim of the present proposal is to achieve the overall conservation objective of favourable conservation

status, since site specific conservation objectives have not yet been formulated for Danish marine habitats

(see section 2.3). In December 2012, the Danish Ministry of Environment made public the Natura 2000

management plans. The management plans contain a description of the habitats and species for which the

site has been designated, the current conservation status of these habitats and species, possible threats

and actions to be taken. In all management plans for marine Natura 2000 sites designated for reefs –

actions should be taken in relation to fishing activities with mobile bottom contacting gear.

The present proposal solely concerns protection of reef structures. Assessement of necessary protection of

sandbanks will be carried out at a later stage when the management plans for the Natura 2000 sites

designated for sandbanks in the North Sea have been adopted by the end of 2014, and the size and spatial

distribution of the sandbanks have been mapped. The Danish AgriFish Agency pursues an approach (in line

with the Natura 2000 management plans), whereby the marine habitats and species which need urgent

attention are protected first, e.g. reef structures.

Figure 1. Map of marine Danish Natura 2000 sites designated for reefs (white areas). Blue areas

indicate the location of the seven Natura 2000 sites, which the present proposal covers. Shaded

area indicates the area of the Belt Sea and the Western Baltic Sea (subdivisions 22-24 – see

further in annex A).

The present proposal covers seven Natura 2000 sites located in the Danish part of the western Baltic Sea,

as shown in figure 1. The Baltic Sea flows into the Kattegat through the Sound, the Little Belt and the

Great Belt and from there to the North Sea. The western part of the Baltic Sea comprises of ICES

subdivisions 22-24, from the southern boundary of the Kattegat to the island of Bornholm.

EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project. 123

pp.


22

Three of the seven Natura 2000 sites are located in the proximity of the island of Bornholm, whereas the

remaining five sites are located in the Belt Sea, which consists of the straits of the Great Belt and the Little

Belt, as shown in figure 1. The Great Belt is defined as the strait between Zealand and the island of Fyn,

which connects the Kattegat to the Baltic Sea.

The reef structures in the western Baltic Sea comprises of stone reef and biogenic reef structures (H1170).

In the western Baltic Sea, reef structures made of blue mussels are rather common. Mussel fishery for blue

mussels takes place in the Little Belt and northern part of the Belt Sea.

The analyses of fishery activity – both in relation to target species and VMS effort has in the present

proposal been separated into the Baltic subdivisions 22-24 (Western Baltic) and 25 (Eastern Baltic). This

division is in line with the ICES fish stock assessments and variation seen in the target species and gears

used.

The western Baltic Sea (subdivisions (SD) 22-24) is an important fishing area for Denmark, Sweden and

Germany. Target species are cod, eel, herring, plaice and sprat. Sand-eel has in the last two years become

increasingly important in the area. In general fishing activity in the western Baltic Sea (given as catch

value) has decreased by approximately 40 pct. Cod is the main target species, however. The reduction in

landings registered for the area is attributed to a reduction in fishery for cod. The main reduction in cod

landings was seen in 2009, whereafter landings have been somehow stable. Fishery activity in the Western

Baltic Sea is largely conducted by smaller vessel below 15 meters. In the Eastern Baltic Sea, SD 25,

several countries are involved in the fisheries as this area is the main area for cod fishery. In this area,

fishery in the period 2007 to 2012 has been quite stable however, and slightly lower in 2013. Cod is the

main target species followed by herring and sprat.

Several initiatives have been taken for the protection of cod. In 2009, Denmark and Sweden agreed on a

cod fishing ban in the northern part of the Sound (SD 23) in the months of February and March. Fishery in

the Eastern Baltic Sea (SD 25-32) are also regulated by a seasonal closure from 1 July to 31 August to

protect cod, as is fishery for cod in SD 24 where there is a seasonal closure in April. The seasonal closures

alongside the introduction of BACOMA 120 mm trawl gear, which was introduced in 2009 to make sure

undersized cod was not caught form the basis of a focused protection of cod in the Baltic Sea.

VMS effort in the Danish part of the Baltic Sea is given in Annex K. The highest effort is seen for Danish

vessels in both SD 22-24 and SD 25. The highest effort in relation to Danish vessels is seen for mobile

contacting gears. Swedish and German vessels carrying VMS primarily conduct fishing activity in SD 25

and on the western side of the island of Bornholm in SD 24 – Eastern part with mobile bottom contacting

gears. There is some fishing activity from German vessels along the border between Denmark and

Germany in the Belt Sea, primarily with mobile contacting gears.

The seven Natura 2000 sites, which the present proposal covers, are part of the Danish Natura 2000

network for the protection of reefs. A total of 34 Natura 2000 sites have been designated for reefs in the

Belt Sea and the Western Baltic Sea area. Existing regulation protects reef structures from physical

disturbances from fishery activity in five of the 34 Natura 2000 sites. This proposal covers seven other

sites. The remaining 22 sites will be protected at a later stage. Of the 22 sites, one site is located in the

western Baltic Sea outside 12 nautical miles. This site has been mapped and will be protected alongside 3

sites located outside 12 nautical miles in the Kattegat after relevant international coordination at a later

stage.


23

5.1.1 Natura 2000 site: Munkegrund

The Natura 2000 site "Munkegrund”22 is located in the northern part of the Belt Sea between the islands of

Samsø and Sejerø, see figure 1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 13.3 km2 and is designated for the

protection of reefs (H1170) and sandbanks (H1110), see figure 2. Stone reef structures cover

approximately 6.7 km2 of the area, corresponding to 50 % of the Natura 2000 site.

Munkegrund consists of a smaller and well preserved stone reef area of approximately 9 km2. The reef

structures consist of primarily larger stones. Sandy bottom areas are scattered around the site.

Figure 2. Map of Natura 2000 site “Munkegrund” showing the location and spatial distribution of the reef structures and sandbanks.

According to the Natura 2000 management plan for the area23, fishing activity with mobile bottom

contacting gear is described as a threat to stone reefs and as a possible threat to sandbanks.

22 Habitat No. 205, Natura 2000 site No. 205, EU site code: DK00VA304 23 Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Munkegrund: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/205-munkegrund/


24

5.1.2 Natura 2000 site: Hatterbarn

The Natura 2000 site "Hatterbarn”24 is located east of the island Samsø in Samsø Belt, see figure 1. The

Natura 2000 site covers an area of 6.4 km2 and is designated for the protection of reefs (H1170), see

figure 3. In total, the mapped reef structures cover approximately 3.7 km2. Part of this area is located

outside the boundaries of the Natura 2000 site. Stone reef structures cover approximately 58 % of the

Natura 200 site.

The geological structure of the site consists mainly of moraine bottom and is characterized by a number of

small well-preserved reef areas surrounded by more sandy grounds. The reef structures are located at

water depths between 6 and 17 meters.

For this Natura 2000 site, one of the three monitoring stations are located outside the boundary of the

Natura 2000 site. The monitoring station is located on a reef structures which is in direct contact with the

reef structure within the site, see figure 3.

Figure 3. Map of Natura 2000 site “Hatterbarn” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef and biogenic reef structures.


contacting gear is described as a threat to the reef structures.

24 Habitat No. 174, Natura 2000 site No. 198, EU site code: DK00VA255 25

Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Hatter Barn: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/126_246/198_Hatter.htm


25

5.1.3 Natura 2000 site: Ryggen

The Natura 2000 site "Ryggen”26 is a small site located northeast of Funen in the southern part of Kattegat,

approximately 5 km east of Hindsholm, see figures 1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 4.4 km2 and

is designated for the protection of reefs (H1170) and sandbanks (H1110), see figure 4. In total, reef

structures cover approximately 1.3 km2 of the area, corresponding to 30 % of the Natura 2000 site.

The geological structure of the site is mainly moraine bottom, and is characterized by one larger reef which

peaks at about 7 meters of depth, where it continues down to approximately 13 meters of depth.

Figure 4. Map of Natura 2000 site “Ryggen” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef and biogenic reef structures and sandbanks.


contacting gear is described as a threat to reef structures, and as a possible threat to sandbanks.

26 Habitat No. 172, Natura 2000 site No. 196, EU site code: DK00VA253 27 Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Ryggen: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/196-ryggen/


26

5.1.4 Natura 2000 site: Broen

The Natura 2000 site "Broen"28 is located 5 km northeast of the northern tip of Langeland in the Great

Belt, see figures 1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 5.9 km2 and is designated for the protection of

reefs (H1170) and sandbanks (H1110), see figure 5. In total, stone reef structures cover approximately

4.5 km2 of the area, corresponding to 76 % of the Natura 2000 site.

The site is characterized as a shallow area of approximately 9-11 meters of water depth, where the stone

coverage ranges from 20-50%. The reef continues down to about 17 meters where sandy bottom takes

over.

Figure 5. Map of Natura 2000 site “Broen” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef

structures and sandbanks.


contacting gear is described as a threat to the reef structure, and as a possible threat to sandbanks.

28

Habitat No. 175, Natura 2000 site No. 199, EU site code: DK00VA256 29

Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Broen: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/199-broen/


27

5.1.5 Natura 2000 site: Ertholmene

The Natura 2000 site ”Ertholmene”30 is located 17 km northeast of Gudhjem on the island of Bornholm in

the Baltic Sea, see figures 1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 12.7 km2 and is designated for the

protection of reefs (H1170) amongst other habitat types and species, see figure 6. The area is also

designated as a bird sanctuary (SAP) and has status of RAMSAR site. In total, stone reef structures cover

approximately 1.4 km2 of the area, corresponding to 11 % of the Natura 2000 site.

The site consists of 5 smaller rocky islands; Christiansø, Frederiksø, Græsholmene, Tat og Østerskær. The

whole area has a very steep coastline with depths down to 40 meters, only a few hundred meters from the

coast. Parts of the surrounding reefs are periodically drained.

Figure 6. Map of Natura 2000 site “Ertholmene” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef structures.


contacting gear is described as a threat to the reefs.

30

Habitat No. 210, Natura 2000 site No. 189, EU site code: DK007X079 31

Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Ertholmene: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/189-ertholmene/


28

5.1.6 Natura 2000 site: Davids Banke

The Natura 2000 site ”Davids Banke”32 is located in the Baltic Sea north of the island Bornholm, see figure

1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 8.4 km2 and is designated for the protection of reefs (H1170),

see figure 7. In total, stone reef structures covers approximately 4.3 km2 of the site, corresponding to 51

% of the Natura 2000 site.

The site is characterized by an elongated reef area in a north-south direction, the top of the area is located

at approximately 12 meters of water depth. The reef consists primarily of large and medium-sized stones.

Within the reef area, smaller sandy areas are found. The surrounding base is at a depth of 40-55 meters

and consists primarily of sand and gravel from 30 meters and down.

Figure 7. Map of Natura 2000 site “Davids Banke” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef structures.


contacting gear is described af a threat to the reef structures.

32


Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Davids Banke: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/209-davids/

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/209-davids/



29

5.1.7 Natura 2000 site: Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund

The Natura 2000 site “Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund”34 is located in the western Baltic Sea south of the island

of Bornholm, see figures 1. The Natura 2000 site covers an area of 3.0 km2 and is designated for the

protection of reefs (H1170) and sandbanks (H1110), see figure 8. The mapped reef structures go beyond

the borders of the Natura 2000 site. In total, the mapped reef structures cover approximately 3.5 km2.

The site is characterized by 3 separate, but coherent reef complexes. In the Eastern part of the area,

Bakkegrund is forming a longitudinal reef structure at approximately 5 meters water depth. In the middle

of the area, there is a peak at 6.5 meters water depth. Bakkebrædt is located in the western corner of the

site - Bakkebrædt reef structure is surrounded by the 10 meters depth curve.

Figure 8. Map of Natura 2000 site “Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund” showing the location and spatial distribution of reef structures and sandbanks.

According to the Natura 2000 management plan for the area, fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting

gear is described as a threat to the reef structures, and as a possible threat to sandbanks35.

5.2 Description of proposed fisheries management measures

5.2.1 Purpose of the present proposal

The purpose of the present proposal is to ensure full protection of reef structures from physical disturbance

due to fisheries activities and thereby contribute to the achievement of favourable conservation status for

reef structures (habitat code H1170).

The protection of reef structures will be ensured through a buffer zone approach, where a 240 meter buffer

zone is placed around the mapped reef structures. The Danish AgriFish Agency has received scientific

advice from DTU Aqua, on the appropriate method to be used. The size of the buffer zone is calculated as 6

times water depth in meters. Water depth around the reef structures in the three Natura 2000 sites, that

34


Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/212-bakkebraedt/


30

the present proposal deals with, ranges between 30-40 meters. For the present proposal, a water depth of

40 meter is used – giving a bufferzone of 240 meters, see Annex D.

Once the reefs are mapped and their size and spatial distribution is known, the Danish AgriFish Agency, on

the basis of scientific advice, formulates the necessary fisheries management measures. The final

determination of boundaries within which fishing activities are proposed to be prohibited, follows the

principles and rationale described in section 4. The outline of the area to be closed for fishing activities is

therefore decided upon separately for each Natura 2000 site taking the site specific mapping of marine

habitats, fisheries control and enforcement as well as proportionality in relation to impact on fishing

patterns, into account. Thus, the outline of the proposed areas to be closed for fishing activity is done per

site in order to on one side to ensure adequate protection of the mapped reef structures as well as to

ensure proportianlity in the proposed management measures in relation to fisheries control and

enforcement.

The outline of reef structures and associated buffer zones are given above in section 5.1.1-5.1.7 for the

seven Natura 2000 sites. For the seven Natura 2000 sites, the reef complex is coherent and cover the

majority of the sites. Thus, the area in which fishing activity is proposed to be regulated solely cover reef

structures and the buffer zone area. Biogenic reef structures made from mussels have also been registered

in the sites ‘Hatterbarn’ and ‘Ryggen’. For both sites, the biogenic reef structures are also protected from

fishing activity. Table 3 gives an overview of the size of the seven Natura 2000 sites, the reef structures

and the area proposed closed for fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting gear.

Table 3. Total area of reef structures and buffer zones

Natura 2000 site Total area (km2) Area of reef strucures (km2) Area of reefs and buffer

zones

km2 % of N2000

area

Munkegrund 13.3 6.6 11.6 87.2

Hatterbarn 6.3 3.5 8.7 138.1

Ryggen 4.4 1.3 3.4 77.2

Broen 5.9 4.5 7.4 125.4

Ertholmene 12.6 1.3 6.0 47.5

Davids Banke 8.4 3.6 10.7 127.4


3.0 2.3 6.7 223.3

The proposed fisheries management measures will for four of the seven site result in closure of an area

larger than the Natura 2000 site itself. The proposed fisheries management measures aims at protecting

the reef complex in its full extent known from the mapping exercise.

5.2.2 Assessment of adequacy and proportionality

In the present proposal, assessment of adequacy and proportionality as well as the precautionary principle

has been given much focus. DTU Aqua has given scientific advice in terms of adequacy in relation to

protection of reef structures from impact from unintended fishing activities. Proportionality has been

discussed in relation to reef structures, that cross the outline of the Natura 2000 site and/or are located

adjacent to Natura 2000 sites as well as in relation to control and enforcement.

In the same context the precautionary principle has been assessed. The Waddenzee judgment C127-02

has explicitly stated the precautionary principle as part of the required assessments of the Habitats

directive’s requirements. This assessment is specificly stated in the paragraph 59 in the Waddenzee


31

judgment, saying that activities only are allowed, if it is made certain that it will not adversely affect the

integrity of that site. This leads to the conclusion that since Natura 2000 sites in Danish waters are

designated prior to the mapping of the reefs, fisheries management measures might be laid down

transboundary to the designated areas if it is asserted that it is needed to protect the integrity of the site.

All reef structures located within a Natura 2000 site must be protected from physical disturbance due to

fishing activity. Reef structures located outside a Natura 2000 site, which are in direct contact with reef

structures located inside the site, must also be protected from physical disturbance, since an impact of

these reef structures may have a negative impact on the reef structures located inside the site. Reef

structures located outside a Natura 2000 site, which are not in direct contact with reef structures inside the

Natura 2000 site, are not included in the provisions of the Habitats Directive, and will therefore in the

present proposal not be protected from fishing activity36.

The rationale behind these principles is to enable the achievement of favourable conservation status for

designated habitats by implementing the necessary restrictions on human activities - in this case by

formulating fisheries management measures.

In relation to the present proposal, reef structures located outside Natura 2000 sites are therefore included

in the protection measure, if they are in direct contact to reef structures located inside the site.

Proportionality is also assessed in relation to control and enforcement of the proposed fisheries

management measures. The proposed measures must be controllable. In some sites, as was the case for

one Natura 2000 site included in the national administrative order of 28 August 2013, the entire Natura

2000 sites was closed for fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting gear, whereby a sandbank located

in the center of the sites was also included in the closure due to control and enforcement of the

implemented fisheries management measures.

36 Further reference to this principle in Danish case law: Decision by the Supreme Court (Højesterets Kendelse

356/2011): http://www.domstol.dk/hojesteret/nyheder/Afgorelser/Documents/356-2011.pdf


32

6. Restriction of fisheries within the Danish Natura 2000 sites The present proposal intends to prohibit fishing activities with mobile bottom contacting gear in areas

mapped as reefs and biogenic reefs (habitat code H1170) in seven Natura 2000 sites: Munkegrund,

Hatterbarn, Ryggen, Broen, Ertholmene, Davids Banke and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund.

In accordance with the Commissions guidelines of 2008 in relation to the formulation of fisheries

management measures in Natura 2000, the Danish AgriFish Agency has requested for fishery data from

the Swedish and German fisheries authorities. DTU Aqua has carried out a range of analyses regarding

landings, catch value and effort in order to assess the impact, which the proposed measures will have on

current fishing activities. The analyses of fishery activities have been carried out on the basis of VMS and

log book data for vessels above 12 meters, since smaller vessels are not obliged to carry VMS. The fishing

pattern for smaller vessels below 12 meters have only been assessed for Danish and Swedish vessels.

Annex I describes in more detail how fishery data from the three countries have been analyzed, and the

methods used. The following sections (6.1-6.3) describe in more detail information regarding fleet activity,

type of fisheries, target species and annual trends for the period 2010-2012 (average values). Seasonal

trends have not been analysed due to the relatively low fishing activities in and around the seven sites.

Annual landing and catch values are given in Annex J.

6.1 Fleet activity and type of fisheries German and Swedish registered fishing vessels have access to the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea as

well as to some areas in the Belt Sea, see section 2.2. These areas have historically been important fishing

areas for Danish, Swedish and German fishermen. No other Member State has direct management

interest/rights within 12 nautical miles of the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea nor the Belt Sea.

Description of fleet activity and type of fisheries will be done separately for the four sites located in SD 22-

24 and the remaining three sites located in SD 25, respectively. The analyses only take vessels carrying

VMS into account (>12 meter). The number of vessels on an annual basis using the seven sites for fishing

activity is farily low. In 2012 no vessels using mobile bottom contacting gear used the seven sites for

fishing. In 2011, one German vessel have been registered using one site for fishing (Ertholmene), whereas

in 2010, three Danish and one German vessels used the two (Ertholmene & Davids Banke) and one area

(Ertholmene), respectively, for fishing.

SD 22-24

The Natura 2000 sites Munkegrund, Hatterbarn, Ryggen, Broen and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund are located

in SD 22-24, see Annex A. Only Danish vessels conduct fishing activities in and around these sites, see

figure 5-11 and table 4. Fishing activities are carried out with trawls (bottom as well as pelagic trawls) and

gillnet and traps for a range of species. Primarily fishing activity is carried out will gillnets, pots and traps.

The majority of the landings come from trawlers, yet the majority of the vessels registered in the areas,

are gillnet vessels.

SD 25

The Natura 2000 sites sites Ertholmene and David Banke are located in SD 25, see Annex A. The type of

fishing activities which are conducted in and around these three sites are somewhat similar between

Danish, Swedish and German fishermen. These Natura 2000 sites are all located around the Danish island

of Bornholm, where fishing activities are carried out with trawls (bottom and pelagic trawls), gillnet and

traps.

The number of vessels conducting fishing activity in and around the seven Natura 2000 sites is fairly low,

see table 4, and are primarily gillnet vessels.

Thus, in 2012, no trawlers have been registered in the seven sites. A similar pattern is seen for Swedish

and German vessels, where only one trawler in total in the time period 2010-2012 have used the area for

fishing. Swedish vessels above 12 meters do not use either of the seven Natura 2000 sites for fishery with

mobile bottom contacting gear, whereas one gill net vessels use the area of Davids Banke 2011 and 2012.


33

With regards to German vessels above 12 meters, only one vessel has conducted fishing activity with

mobile bottom contacting gear in 2010 and one vessel in 2012. No gillnet fishing activity from German

vessels have taken place in the areas.

Section 6.2 contains information on target species and annual trends for the three countries.

Danish fishing activity within the five sites in SD 22-24 constitutes less than 1 ‰ of the total VMS effort in

areas, except for the site Broen, where there is some effort from ‘other gears’ than mobile bottom

contacting gear, see table 2- 4 in Annex K. A similar pictures is seen in relation to the two sites in SD 25,

where total VMS effort ranges from 0.579-2.443 ‰ of the total VMS effort for the area.

In relation to Swedish vessels, there is no VMS effort in the five sites in SD 22-24 for the period 2010-

2012. In SD 25, the mean VMS effort for Swedish vessels fishing with other gear types than mobile

contacting gear is 0.452‰ for the site ‘Davids Banke’ in relation to the mean VMS effort for SD 25. A

higher VMS effort is seen inside the stone rrref buffer area compared to the total VMS effort from Swedish

vessels in SD 25, however, the activity is defined as ‘other gears’ and will not be affected by the proposed

fisheries management measures.

In SD 22-24, there is only VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile contacting gear in the site

‘Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund’. The total VMS effort is the stone reef buffer zone is 1‰ of the total VMS

effort from German vessels in SD 22-24. In SD 25, there is effort from German vessels fishing with mobile

contacting gear in the site ‘Ertholmene’. The total VMS effort is 0.167 ‰ of the total VMS effort from

German vessels in SD 25.

Table 4. Number of vessels fishing in Natura 2000 for mobile bottom contacting gears and other

gear types, respectively

Natura 2000 site

Danish vessels mobile bottom contacting

gears (other gears)

Swedish vessels mobile bottom contacting

gears (other gears)

German vessels mobile bottom contacting

gears (other gears)

2010 2011 2012 2010 2011 2012 2010 2011 2012

Munkegrund 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)

Hatterbarn 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)

Ryggen 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (2) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)

Broen 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (1) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)

Ertholmene 2 (1) 0 (1) 0 (1) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0)

Davids Banke 1 (0) 0 (0) 0 (3) 0 (0) 0 (1) 0 (1) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)


0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0)

Data is only available for vessels carrying VMS (from 2012 for vessels above 12 meters).

Thus, according to VMS effort (see Annex H), the seven Natura 2000 sites are not important fishing

grounds for neither Danish, German nor Swedish fishermen. Of the three countries, Denmark has the

highest effort values for the Belt Sea (SD 22-24) and the Danish part of the Western Baltic Sea (SD 25) in

general. Yet in and around the Natura 2000 sites, the effort is low. VMS effort is very low for both Swedish

and German vessels for the seven Natura 2000 sites concerned, see Annex K.

Since smaller fishing vessels (below 12 meters) do not carry VMS, it has not been possible to include the

activity from smaller vessels in the analyses carried out in and around the seven Natura 2000 sites with

regards to effort, fishery pattern, target species etc. However, based on dialogue with the Danish

Fishermen Association and data on fishing pattern and target species for Swedish vessels, the fishing effort

from these smaller vessels is estimated to be very low in the seven Natura 2000 sites concerned.

Experiences from fishery control at sea as well as from the FMC (the Danish Fishery Monitoring Centre)

confirms this assumption.


34

It can be added that, when looking at the threats from fishing activities on reef structures, the Danish

Agrifish Agency has also been analyzing the potential impact from recreational fishing activities. It is

assessed by DTU Aqua, that commercial fishing activities with gears like mobile bottom contacting trawls,

nets, lines, hooks, pots and traps can have a negative impact on bubbling reefs. Since the risk of damage

to the reef structures depends on the gear type used and not on fishing vessel status, recreational fishing

activities can also pose a risk when using the above mentioned gear types. Recreational fishery is not part

of the Common Fisheries Policy. The Danish Agrifish Agency therefore considers taking steps to introduce

management measures for recreational fishing activities through national regulation (administrative

orders) for the Natura 2000 sites in question.

6.2 Target species and annual trends Analyses of target species and annual trends for fishing activity within the Natura 2000 sites have been

made possible through a coupling of VMS-data and log book data, see Annex I (only for vessels above 12

meters). Focus has been given to the period 2010-2012. Information on gear types and landings have also

been analyzed for Danish, Swedish and German vessels.

The following section describes in more detail fishing activity per site separately for Denmark, Sweden and

Germany for the main target species (given as an average for a three year period (2010-2012)). Annex J

lists fishery data at species level per year per country.

Natura 2000 site “Munkegrund”

According to log book and VMS data there are no records of fishing activities in the Natura 2000 site

Munkegrund, neither from Danish, Swedish or German vessels, respectively, for the period 2010-2012, see

figure 5a and 5b. The proposed fisheries management measures will therefore have no effect on fishing

activities in and around the Natura 2000 site for vessels above 12 meters.

Fishery data for smaller vessels are only available for Swedish vessels (log book data, see Annex I).

Fishing activity with smaller vessels are assessed to similar to that of larger vessels. This assumption is

supported by information of fishing pattern for smaller vessels provided by the Danish Fishermen

Association.


35

Figure 5a. Maps of Munkegrund showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS

positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.

Figure 5b. Maps of Munkegrund showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS

positions for Swedish and German vessels above 12 meters.


36

Natura 2000 site “Hatterbarn”


Munkegrund, neither from Danish, Swedish or German vessels, respectively, for the period 2010-2012, see

figure 6a and 6b. The proposed fisheries management measures will therefore have no effect on fishing

activities in and around the Natura 2000 site for vessels above 12 meters.


Fishery activity with smaller vessels are assessed to similar to that of larger vessels. This assumption is


Association.

Figure 6a. Maps of Hatterbarn showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS

positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.


37

Figure 6b. Maps of Hatterbarn showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS


Natura 2000 site “Ryggen”

In the period 2010-2012, two Danish fishermen have used the Natura 2000 site ‘Ryggen’ for fishing

activity with other gears than mobile bottom contacting gears, see figure 7a. According to log book and

VMS data, the two vessels used the area in 2012 and landed a total of 75 kg of assorted species at a catch

value of € 187, see table 5 and table 7 and 10 in Annex J. The activity took place in and around the area

mapped as reef as well as in the surrounding buffer zone. This activity will be not be affected by the

proposed fisheries management measures.

Neither Sweden nor Germany have registered landings from the area in the period 2010-2012, see table 5

and figure 7b.

Figure 7a and 7b show VMS tracks for Danish, Swedish and German vessels, respectively, for the period

2010-2012 for Ryggen. From figure 7a and 7b it can be seen, that the proposed fisheries management

measures will have no or low effect on fishing activities in and around the Natura 2000 site.


Fishing activity with smaller vessels are estimated to be similar to those of larger vessels. This assumption

is supported by information of fishing pattern for smaller vessels provided by the Danish Fishermen

Association.


38

Table 5. Average landings per country and value of landings per gear type and target species

(2010-2012) for Ryggen. The values are estimated from log book and VMS data.

Country / Landings (in kg) Estimated value of catch (€)

Type of gear Target species DK DE SE DK DE SE

Net Others* 25 0 0 187 0 0

Total 25 0 0 187 0 0

*) Others; catches below 200 kg are summarized in this box.

Figure 7a. Maps of Ryggen showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.


39

Figure 7b. Maps of Ryggen showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions

for Swedish and German vessels above 12 meters.

Natura 2000 site “Broen”

According to log book and VMS data, only Danish fishermen conduct fishing activities in the Natura 2000

site ‘Broen’, see table 6, however the activities are fairly limited. The gear type used in the Danish fishery

in the area is mainly netgears (gill nets). Average landings amounts to 4 952 kg at an estimated catch

value of € 12 118 (2010-2012). If looking at annual values, the registered landings took place in 2012 (14

855 kg compared to total value of € 36 354, see Annex J).

Neither Sweden nor Germany have registered landings from the area in the period 2010-2012, see table 6.

Figure 8a and 8b show VMS tracks for Danish and foreign vessels, respectively, for the period 2010-2012

for Broen. From figure 8a and 8b it can be seen, that the proposed fisheries management measures will

have no or low effect on fishing activities in and around the Natura 2000 site.




Association.


40


(2010-2012) for Broen. The values are estimated from log book and VMS data.



Net Cod 4 544 0 0 11 379 0 0

Others* 408 0 0 739 0 0

Total 4 952 0 0 12 118 0 0 *) Others; catches below 200 kg are summarized in this box.

Figure 8a. Maps of Broen showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.


41

Figure 8b. Maps of Broen showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions for

Swedish and German vessels above 12 meters.

Natura 2000 site “Ertholmene”

Danish and German fishermen conduct fishing activities in and around the site ‘Ertholmene, see figure 9a

and 9b, however, the activities are limited. The main activity is seen for Danish vessels. According to log

book and VMS data, Danish fishermen have some activity in the area. Target species are sprat and herring

using mobile bottom and pelagic trawls. These activities are not taking place in areas mapped as reefs.

Average annual landings amounts to 6 444 kg at an estimated catch value of € 2 153 (2010-2012). If

looking at annual values, the registered landings took place each year in the period, with a tendency to a

fall in the total annual landings in 2011 and 2012, see Annex J.

Average annual landings from German vessels are limited and amount to 438 kg at an estimated catch

value of € 665, see table 7. If looking at annual values, the registered landings took place in 2010 and

2011, see Annex J.

Sweden have no registered landings from the area in the period 2010-2012, see table 7.

Figure 9a and 9b show VMS positions for Danish, Swedish and German vessels, respectively, for the period

2010-2012 for Ertholmene. From figure 9a and 9b it can be seen, that the proposed fisheries management

measures will have no or low effect on fishing activities in and around the Natura 2000 site.




Association.


42


(2010-2012) for Ertholmene. The values are estimated from log book and VMS data.


Type of gear

Target

species DK DE SE DK DE SE

Bottom

trawl Herring 2 750 0 0 975 0 0

Cod 278 437 0 345 663 0

Others* 168 1 0 19 2 0

Pelagic trawl Sprat 3 222 0 0 791 0 0

Others* 3 0 0 3 0 0

Net Others* 23 0 0 21 0 0

Total 6 444 438 0 2 153 665 0 *) Others; catches below 200 kg are summarized in this box.

Figure 9a. Maps of Ertholmene showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.


43

Figure 9b. Maps of Ertholmene showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS


Natura 2000 site “Davids Banke”

Danish and Swedish fishermen conducts fishing activities in and aroun the site Davids Banke, see table 8

and figure 10a and 10b, however the activities are limited. According to log book and VMS data, Danish

fishermen have some activities in the area. Target species are herring using pelagic trawls. Average annual

landing for the period 2010-2012 amounts to 3 391 kg per year at an estimated catch value of € 2 563

(2010-2012). If looking at annual values, the majority of registered landings took place in 2012 (9 153 kg

compared to a total value of 10 172 kg, see table 7 and 10 in Annex J). The fishing activities are taking

place in and around the reef structures. Since pelagic trawls are used, the proposed fisheries management

measures will have no affect on the activities in the area.

According to log book and VMS data, Swedish fishermen primarily conduct fishing for cod in the area, using

net gear (gillnets). Average annual landings (2010-2012) amounts to 8 755 kg estimated at a catch value

of € 10 869. If looking at annual values, the majority of the registered Swedish landings took place in 2012

(24 884 kg compared to a total value of 32 608 kg, see Annex J). The registered fishing activity in the area

is carried out with other gears than mobile contacting gears, thus the proposed fisheries management

measures will no effect on Swedish fishery.

The fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting gear is very limited, both for Danish as well as Swedish

fishermen.

Germany have no regiatered landings from the area in the period 2010-2012.

Figure 10a and 10b shows VMS positions for Danish, Swedish and German vessels, respectively, for the

period 2010-2012 for Davids Banke. From figure 10a and 10b it can be seen, that the proposed fisheries

management measures will have no or low effect on fishing activities in and around the Natura 2000 site.




44


Association.


(2010-2012) for Davids Banke. The values are estimated from log book and VMS data.



Bottom

trawl Cod 244 0 0 454 0 0

Others* 96 0 0 98 0 0

Pelagic trawl Herring 2 973 0 0 1 886 0 0

Net Cod 76 0 8 605 124 0 10 698

Others* 2 0 24 1 0 19

Lines Others* 0 0 125 0 0 153

Total 3 391 0 8 755 2 563 0 10 869 *) Others; catches below 200 kg are summarized in this box.

Figure 10a. Maps of Davids Banke showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.


45

Figure 10b. Maps of Davids Banke showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones and VMS


.

Natura 2000 site “Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund”


Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund, neither from Danish, Swedish or German vessels, respectively, for the period

2010-2012, see figure 11a and 11b. The proposed fisheries management measures will therefore have no

effect on fishing activities in and around the Natura 2000 site for vessels above 12 meters.


Fishing activity with smaller vessels are assessed to similar to that of larger vessels. This assumption is


Association.


46

Figure 11a. Maps of Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones

and VMS positions for Danish vessels above 12 meters.

Figure 11b. Maps of Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund showing reef structures, proposed buffer zones

and VMS positions for Swedish and German vessels above 12 meters.


47

6.3 Displacement Analyses of fishing patterns based on VMS positions and log book data indicate, that the proposed fisheries

management measures are not likely to have any significant impact in relation to the current fishing

activities in the Danish part of SD 22-24 and 25. For Danish, Swedish and German vessels, the Belt Sea

and western Baltic Sea are important fishing grounds, however, the areas addressed in the present

proposal are characterized by reef structures and are therefore not preferred fishing grounds primarily due

to the risk of damage to the fishing gear used.

Analyses of fishing pattern, landings and effort show that the proposed fisheries management measures

are not in conflict with the fishing activity taking place in and around the seven sites. In general fishing

activity is carried out with pelagic trawls and/or gill nets – an activity which can continue in relation to the


The method of protection of reefs through buffer zones ensures that the proposed measures are targeted

protection of the marine habitats and proportional in relation to the impact in terms of fisheries. However,

the fishing activities which might be taking place in areas mapped as reefs are not compatible with the

required obligation to ensure protection of reef structures from physical disturbances from fishery activity.

The overall conclusion in relation to displacement is therefore, that the proposed fisheries management

measures for protection of reef structures will have no or very limited impact on the fishing activitites

carried out by Danish, Swedish and German fishermen in SD 22-24 as well as SD 25. VMS effort confirms

that the three Natura 2000 sites are not important fishing areas for either Danish, Swedish and German

fishermen. However, it cannot be excluded that the proposed fisheries management measures might have

an effect on some fishermen with vessels smaller than 12 meters. However, this potential impact is

estimated to be minimal.

Assessement of displacement is important not only in terms of potential effects to fisheries but also in

relation to the marine environment. Displacement of fisheries to less productive areas can potentially cause

great damage to the marine environment, thus resulting in an overall negative impact. The proposed

fisheries meaures in the present proposal will in general not result in displacement of fisheries, since the

areas proposed closed to fishing activities are not important fishing grounds for Danish, Swedish and

German fishermen.

6.4 Control, enforcement and monitoring The following two sections describe how the proposed management measures will be controlled, enforced

and monitored. Changes in conservation status as well as monitoring of effects of implemented

management measures are assessed in the Danish Monitoring Program (NOVANA).

6.4.1 Control and enforcement

Control and enforcement of fishery management measures in marine Natura 2000 sites in Denmark is

coordinated by the Fishery Monitoring Centre (FMC) located in Esbjerg, Jutland. The Danish FMC has

developed specific guidelines for fishery control and enforcement, which were launched parallel to the

implementation of the first national order for the protection of reef structures in four coastal Natura 2000

sites located in the western Baltic.

All marine Natura 2000 sites are visible in the Danish V-track system. The Danish FMC has developed a

model whereby the centre is alerted if and when a vessel enters the outlined area (control area) placed

around the Natura 2000 sites for which fisheries management measures have been implemented. The

control area has a minimum size of 4 nautical miles whereby any activity in the area will be detected.

Every day FMC receives a list of the vessels which have been detected in the control areas the previous

day. In case a vessel has been detected within a Natura 2000 site, an analysis of the vessels fishing


48

pattern is carried out and the vessel is contacted with the purpose of informing the vessel owner of current

fisheries management measures. The model allows for real time control as well as administrative control.

Since September 2013 when the first national administrative order was implemented for protection of reef

structures in four coastal Natura 2000 sites, the FMC has detected both gillnet vessels and trawlers in

areas closed for fishing activities with mobile bottom contacting gear. An open dialogue with the fishermen

so far seems to have had an effect.

Control and enforcement of fisheries management measures in marine Natura 2000 sites in Danish waters

are centered around the VMS system, the risk based system used in regular fisheries control and

enforcement as well as open dialogue with fishermen and their organizations. The Danish AgriFish Agency

is fully aware of the challenges of control and enforcement of fisheries management measures for relatively

small Natura 2000 sites, which can be passed in the time between two VMS pings. Control and

enforcement needs to be seen in connection with the implementation of the reform of the Common

Fisheries Policy.

Analyses of the fishing patterns in and around the seven Natura 2000 sites which the present proposal

covers, show that fishing activity with mobile bottom contacting gear in the seven sites is relatively limited.

Fishing activity do not take place in areas mapped as reefs (H1170), but some fishing activity is seen in

the buffer zones placed around the reefs. The analyses is based on VMS positions for Danish, Swedish and

German vessels as well as information from smaller Danish vessels – see section 6.1 and 6.2 for more

information on fishing pattern, target species etc. With the current fishing activity in mind, control and

enforcement does not seem to be a major issue under a new regime with prohibition of certain fishing

activities in the seven Natura 2000 sites.

Denmark will reassess whether there is a need for additional technical equipment in relation to control and

enforcement of the proposed fisheries management measures once these measures have been in place for

18 months. Thus, the Danish AgriFish Agency will, if the need arises, require usage of technical equipment

(GPS and sensors as a minimum), in line with the current CCTV and technical specifications for some types

of fishing activities in Danish waters both within and outside 12 nautical miles. If the need arises for

technical equipment in relation to fisheries control and enforcement – Denmark will coordinate such a

requirement in accordance with Article 11 and 18 of the Basic Regulation and with the Member States

having a direct management interest in the area, e.g. Germany and Sweden.

6.4.2 The national monitoring program – NOVANA

In Denmark, reef structures in Natura 2000 sites are monitored through NOVANA, the Danish national

monitoring program. Within this program, reefs in open waters are monitored by the University of Aarhus,

the Danish Centre for Environment and Energy (DCE). DCE monitor reefs in 34 Natura 2000 sites following

specific national guidelines. Of the 34 areas, reefs in 12 areas are monitored yearly, whereas reefs in the

remaining 22 areas are monitored every six years. In addition to this program, the Danish Nature Agency

monitors macroalgae coverage on transects in areas placed in the coastal zone37.

Thus, the effect of the proposed management measures will be monitored through the national monitoring

program NOVANA. Data from the marine monitoring stations located within and/ or close to the Natura

2000 sites concerned provides the basis for the description of the current conservation status both in

relation to basic analyses plans and management plans.

The seven Natura 2000 sites, that the present proposal deals with, are monitored either yearly or every six

years:

1. Munkegrund (EU site code: DK00VA304): Every 6 years

2. Hatterbarn (EU site code: DK00VA255): Yearly

37

Dahl, K. & Carstensen, J. (2008): Tools to assess conservation status on open water reefs in Natura 2000 areas. Nat Env R Inst, University of Aarhus, 25 pp. NERI Technical Report No. 663: http:// www.dmu.dk/Pub/FR663.pdf

http://www.dmu.dk/Pub/FR663.pdf


49

3. Ryggen (EU site code: DK00VA253): Every 6 years

4. Broen (EU site code: DK00VA256): Yearly

5. Ertholmene (EU site code: DK007X079): No monitoring of conservation status

6. Davids Banke (EU site code: DK00VA308): No monitoring og conservation status

7. Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund (EU site code: DK00VA310): No monitoring og conservation status.


50

References

1. Council Directive 92/43/EEC, of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1992L0043:20070101:EN:PDF

2. Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:020:0007:0025:en:PDF

3. Link Natura 2000 Management plans: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/

4. Dahl, K. 2005: Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s. – Faglig rapport fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I. R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project. 123 pp.; ICES. 2006. Report of

the Working Group on Ecosystem Effects of Fishing Activities (WGECO), 5 12 April 2006 , ICES Headquarters, Copenhagen. ACE:05. 174 pp.

5. Basic Regulation 1380/2013, art. 4, § 1, no. 22; “Member State having a direct management interest means a Member State which has an interest consisting of either fishing opportunities or a fishery taking place in the exclusive economic zone og the Member State concerned”: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:354:0022:0061:EN:PDF

6. Link Guidance document: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/marine/docs/fish_measures.pdf

7. Link Act on Environmental Goals: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=127102 8. Link Fisheries Act: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/r0710.aspx?id=121218 9. Link Administrative order no. 408, 1 May 2007:

https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=13043 10. Link Administrative order no. 1114, 25 November 2011:

https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=139270 11. Link: Report – Mapping of Natura 2000 sites in 2011: http://naturstyrelsen.dk/publikationer/alle-

publikationer/2013/dec/kortlaegning-af-natura-2000-habitaterne-boblerev-(1180)-rev-(1170)-sandbanker-(1110)/

12. The Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

http://naturerhverv.dk/fileadmin/user_upload/NaturErhverv/Filer/Fiskeri/Natura_2000_hav/Natura_2000_dialogforum/Revideret_kommissorium_for_N2000_Dialogforum_020513.pdf

13. Moland E, Olsen EM, Knutsen H, Garrigou P, Espeland SH, Kleiven AR, Andre´ C, Knutsen JA. 2013 Lobster and cod benefit from small-scale northern marine protected areas: inference from an empirical before–after control-impact study. Proc R Soc B 280: 20122679.

14. Dahl, K. & Carstensen, J. (2008): Tools to assess conservation status on open water reefs in Natura 2000 areas. Nat Env R Inst, University of Aarhus, 25 pp. NERI Technical Report No. 663: http:// www.dmu.dk/Pub/FR663.pdf

15. Vessel monitoring systems: satellite based monitoring system used in commercial fisheries. 16. Link Booklet:


17. Link Administrative order no. 1048 of 28 August 2013: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=158209

18. Dahl, K. (2005): Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s.

– Faglig rapport fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I.

R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project. 123 pp.

19. Dahl, K. (2005): Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s. – Faglig rapport fra DMU nr. 526; Fenberg P.B.*, Caselle J., Claudet J., Clemence M., Gaines S., García-Charton J.A., Gonçalves E., Grorud-Colvert K., Guidetti P., Jenkins S., Jones P.J.S., Lester

S., McAllen R., Moland E., Planes S. and Sørensen T.K. (2012) The science of European marine reserves: status, efficacy and needs. Marine Policy 36(5), 1012-1021; Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Kaiser, M. J. and Poiner, I. R. (2000), A quantitative analysis of fishing impacts on shelf-sea benthos. Journal of Animal Ecology, 69: 785–798.

20. Link Administrative order no. 1048 of 28 August 2013: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=158209

21. Dahl, K. (2005): Effekter af fiskeri på stenrevs algevegetation. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser. 16 s.

– Faglig rapport fra DMU nr. 526; Kaiser, M. J., Collie, J. S., Hall, S. J., Jennings, S. and Poiner, I. R. (2002), Modification of marine habitats by trawling activities: prognosis and solutions. Fish and





http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:354:0022:0061:EN:PDF


http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/marine/docs/fish_measures.pdf


https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/r0710.aspx?id=121218














51

Fisheries, 3: 114–136; ICES. 2009. Report of the EMPAS project (Environmentally Sound Fisheries Management in Protected Areas), 2006‐2008, an ICES‐BfN project. 123 pp.

22. Link Council Regulation (EC) No 2187/2005: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2005:349:0001:0023:EN:PDF

23. Link Council Regulation (EC) No 850/1998: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1998R0850:20060117:EN:PDF

24. Munkegrund: Habitat No. 205, Natura 2000 site No. 205, EU site code: DK00VA304 25. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Munkegrund:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/205-munkegrund/

26. Hatterbarn: Habitat No. 174, Natura 2000 site No. 198, EU site code: DK00VA255 27. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Hatter Barn:

http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/12

6_246/198_Hatter.htm 28. Ryggen: Habitat No. 172, Natura 2000 site No. 196, EU site code: DK00VA253 29. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Ryggen:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-

2009-15/plan-126-246/196-ryggen/ 30. Broen: Habitat No. 175, Natura 2000 site No. 199, EU site code: DK00VA256 31. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Broen:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/199-broen/

32. Ertholmene: Habitat No. 210, Natura 2000 site No. 189, EU site code: DK007X079 33. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Ertholmene:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/189-ertholmene/

34. Davids Banke: Habitat No. 209, Natura 2000 site No. 209, EU site code: DK00VA308 35. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Davids Banke:


36. Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund: Habitat No. 212, Natura 2000 site No. 212, EU site code: DK00VA310 37. Link to Natura 2000 management plan for Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund:

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-

2009-15/plan-126-246/212-bakkebraedt/ 38. Reference to principle in Danish case law: Decision by the Supreme Court (Højesterets Kendelse

356/2011): http://www.domstol.dk/hojesteret/nyheder/Afgorelser/Documents/356-2011.pdf 39. Dahl, K. & Carstensen, J. (2008): Tools to assess conservation status on open water reefs in

Natura 2000 areas. Nat Env R Inst, University of Aarhus, 25 pp. NERI Technical Report No. 663: http:// www.dmu.dk/Pub/FR663.pdf



http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1998R0850:20060117:EN:PDF

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG:1998R0850:20060117:EN:PDF



http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/126_246/198_Hatter.htm

http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/Se_Planerne/126_246/198_Hatter.htm

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/196-ryggen/

http://naturstyrelsen.dk/naturbeskyttelse/natura-2000/natura-2000-planer/natura-2000-planer-2009-15/plan-126-246/196-ryggen/







http://www.domstol.dk/hojesteret/nyheder/Afgorelser/Documents/356-2011.pdf



52

List of Annexes

Annex A: Map of Danish marine Natura 2000 network

Annex B: Overview of designation of Natura 2000 sites

Annex C: Overview of the 11 information items in Commission’s guideline from 2008

Annex D: Scientific advice – Buffer zones

Annex E: Overview of formal and informal consultations

Annex F: Summary of outcome of regional coordination proces

Annex G: Summary of outcome of consultation with the Danish Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum and

Advisory Councils

Annex H: Buffer zone coordinates for Herthas Flak, Læsø Trindel & Tønneberg Banke and Lysegrund

Annex I: Fishery data: Description of methods

Annex J: Total landings and catch values

Annex K: Fishery effort


53

Annex A – Map of Danish Natura 2000 network

Designation codes are used (marine only) – definitions and further information regarding the designation

types appears in the EU Commission´s “Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats”38 and “Codelist

for species” on the Reference Portal for Natura 200039.

1095 Sea lamprey

1099 River lamprey

1103 Twait shad

1110 Sandbank which are slightly covered by sea water all the time

1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea water at low tide

1150 Coastal lagoons

1160 Large shallow inlets and bays

1170 Reefs

1180 Submarine structures made by leaking gases

1351 Harbour porpoise

1364 Grey seal

1365 Harbour seal

A range of bird species

Table of designated habitat types and species for the 97 Danish Natura 2000 sites is given in the following

pages.

38

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/habitatsdirective/docs/Int_Manual_EU28.pdf 39

http://bd.eionet.europa.eu/activities/Natura_2000/reference_portal

DK has designated a

total of 97 marine

Natura 2000 sites.

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/habitatsdirective/docs/Int_Manual_EU28.pdf

http://bd.eionet.europa.eu/activities/Natura_2000/reference_portal


54

Table of designated habitat types and species for the 97 Danish Natura 2000 sites is given on

the next page.

EU site code N2000 site name (in Danish) Size (ha) Designated for: (only marine habitats and species mentioned)

DK00FX112 Skagens Gren og Skagerrak 270.295 1351, 1150

DK00FX113 Hirsholmene, havet vest herfor og Ellinge Å’s udløb

9.533 1095,1364,1365,1110,1150,1170,1180, birds

DK00FX010 Strandenge på Læsø og havet syd herfor

102.714 1364,1365,1110,1140,1150,1170,1180, birds

DK00FX118 Holtemmen, Højsande og Nordmarken

713 1150

DK00FX122 Ålborg Bugt, Randers Fjord og Mariager Fjord

72.197 1095,1099,1103,1365,1355,1110,1130,1140,1150, 1160, birds

DK00FX123 Nibe Bredning, Halkær Ådal og Sønderup Ådal

20.341 1095,1099,1355,1365,1110,1150,1160,1170,1140, birds

DK00EY124 Løgstør Bredning, Vejlerne og Bulbjerg

44.768 1095,1355,1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00FX257 Havet omkring Nordre Rønner 18.535 1364,1365,1110,1140,1170,1180, birds

DK00FX128 Kielstrup Sø 40 1110, 1150

DK00EY133 Agger Tange, Nissum Bredning, Skibsted Fjord og Agerø

33.165 1103,1355,1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00EX026 Dråby Vig 1.678 1103,1355,1365,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00EY134 Lovns Bredning, Hjarbæk Fjord og Skals, Simested mv.

23.520 1103,1355,1365,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00EX135 Kås Hoved 396 1355, 1150

DK00EY136 Sønder Lem Vig og Geddal Strandenge

1.115 1355, 1150

DK00EX258 Mågerodde og Karby Odde 497 1355,1150,1160, birds

DK00DX146 Anholt og havet nord for 47.878 1364,1365,1110,1150, birds

DK00DX151 Begtrup Vig og kystområder ved Helgenæs

1.771 1110,1150,1160,1170

DK00DX155 Stavns Fjord, Samsø Østerflak og Nordby Hede

15.663 1364,1365,1110,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00DY156 Horsens Fjord, havet øst for og Endelave

45.823 1355,1364,1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00CY040 Venø, Venø Sund 2.926 1103,1365,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00CX160 Nissum Fjord 6.430 1095,1099,1103,1106,1355,1150, birds

DK00CX161 Stadil Fjord og Vest Stadil Fjord 6.903 1095,1355,1150, birds

DK00CY163 Ringkøbing Fjord og Nymindestrømmen

21.810 1095,1099,1102,1103,1106,1355,1130,1150, birds

DK00AY176 Vadehavet med Ribe Å, Tved Å og Varde Å vest for Varde

151.158 1095,1099,1103,1106,1113,1351,1355,1364,1365, 1110,1130,1140,1150,1160,1170,birds

DK008X182 Fyns Hoved, Lillegrund og Lillestrand

1.960 1351,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170

DK008X184 Æbelø, havet syd for og Nærå 13.161 1351,1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK008X185 Havet mellem Romsø og Hindsholm samt Romsø

4.328 1351,1110,1150,1160,1170

DK008X075 Odense Fjord 4.136 1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK008X047 Lillebælt 35.043 1351,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK008X189 Østerø Sø 57 1150

DK008X190 Centrale Storebælt og Vresen 8.572 1351, 1170, birds

DK008X197 Bøjden Nor 114 1150

DK008X198 Maden på Helnæs og havet vest for

1.696 1351,1110,1160,1170

DK008X199 Vestlige del af Avernakø 124 1150

DK00VA200 Stenrev sydøst for Langeland 1.484 1110, 1170

DK008X201 Sydfynske Øhav 37.000 1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK003X202 Hesselø med omliggende stenrev

4.193 1364,1365,1110,1150,1170

DK003X209 Roskilde Fjord 14.810 1110,1140,1150,1160, birds

DK002X110 Saltholm og omliggende hav 5.405 1364,1365,1110,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK002X111 Vestamager og havet syd for 6.179 1110,1150,1160, birds

DK004X217 Ølsemagle Strand og Staunings 348 1140,1150,1160


55

Ø

DK005Y220 Havet og kysten mellem Hundested og Rørvig

3.900 1110,1150,1160, birds

DK005X221 Sejerø Bugt og Saltbæk Vig 40.000 1355,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170,birds

DK005X222 Udby Vig 384 1140, 1160

DK005X223 Åmose, Tissø, Halleby Å og Flasken

2.000 1130, 1150, birds

DK005Y229 Skælskør Fjord og havet og kysten mellem Agersø og Glænø

14.000

1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK005X097 Hov Vig 45 birds

DK005X276 Røsnæs, Røsnæs Rev og Kalundborg Fjord

5.540 1351,1365,1160,1170

DK006X233 Havet og kysten mellem Præstø Fjord og Grønsund

28.600 1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK006X234 Havet og kysten mellem Karrebæk Fjord og Knudshoved Odde

16.458

1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK00VA235 Kirkegrund 1.761 1110, 1170

DK006X090 Klinteskoven og Klinteskov kalkgrund

2.000 birds

DK006X238 Smålandsfarvandet nord for Lolland, Guldborg Sund mv.

79.069 1364,1365,1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK006X242 Nakskov Fjord og inderfjord 7.574 1110,1140,1150,1160,1170, birds

DK006X260 Stege Nor 572 1150

DK006X279 Busemarke Mose og Råby Sø 242 1150

DK007X079 Ertholmene 1.256 1364, 1170, birds

DK00VA247 Kims Top og den Kinesiske Mur 26.092 1170, 1180

DK00VA248 Herthas Flak 1.380 1110,1170,1180

DK00VA249 Læsø Trindel og Tønneberg Banke

8.123 1110,1170,1180

DK00VA250 Store Middelgrund 2.094 1351,1110,1170,1180

DK00VA170 Mejl Flak 3.907 1110, 1170

DK00VA171 Gilleleje Flak og Tragten 15.034 1351,1110,1170

DK00VA253 Ryggen 437 1110, 1170

DK00VA254 Flensborg Fjord, Bredgrund og farvandet omkring Als

64.922 1351,1110,1170, birds

DK00VA255 Hatterbarn 633 1170

DK00VA256 Broen 588 1110, 1170

DK00VA301 Lønstrup Rødgrund 9.283 1170

DK00VA302 Knudegrund 748 1170

DK00VA303 Schultz og Hastens Grund samt Briseis Flak

20.710 1110, 1170

DK00VA304 Munkegrund 1.329 1110, 1170

DK00VA305 Stevns Rev 4.640 1110, 1170

DK00VA299 Lysegrund 3.158 1110, 1170

DK00VA307 Bøchers Grund 1.098 1170

DK00VA308 Davids Banke 838 1170

DK00VA309 Hvideodde Rev 789 1170

DK00VA310 Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 299 1110, 1170

DK00VA340 Sandbanker ud for Thyborøn 6.325 1110

DK00VA341 Sandbanker ud for Thorsminde 6.354 1110

DK00EX284 Risum Enge og Selde Vig 322 1110,1140,1150,1160

DK00DX319 Kastbjerg Ådal 38 1355,1110,1150,1160

DK00DX300 Mols Bjerge med kystvande 2.915 1110,1160,1170

DK00DX321 Kaløskovene og Kaløvig 280 1110,1140,1160,1170

DK00DX322 Kobberhage kystarealer 792 1110, 1170

DK003X297 Jægerspris Skydeterræn 569 1140, 1160

DK004Y335 Ryegård Dyrehave, Bramsnæs mv.

197 1160

DK008X329 Thurø Rev 163 1110,1150,1160,1170


56

DK00VA330 Ebbeløkke Rev 140 1170

DK003X333 Kyndby Kyst 360 1110,1140,1150,1160,1170

DK00FX122 Ålborg Bugt, østlige del 177.360 birds

DK00VA347 Sydlige Nordsø 246.296 1351,1364,1365,1110

DK00VA348 Thyborøn Stenvolde 7.804 1170

DK00VA257 Jyske Rev, Lillefiskerbanke 24.083 1170

DK00VA258 Store Rev 10.892 1351,1170,1180

DK00VA259 Gule Rev 47.059 1351, 1170

DK00VA260 Fermern Bælt 11.456 1351

DK00VA261 Adler Grund og Rønne Banke 31.910 1110, 1170

State of Play – implementation of Natura 2000 in Denmark

In the first planperiod (2010-2015), Denmark has focus on protection of reef structures from

irreversible damages due to impact from fishing activity.

The sites concerned in the present proposal, have also been designated for other marine

habitats and species, e.g. sandbanks, harbour porpoises, seabirds etc. Formulation of necessary

fisheries management measures in relation to the remaining habitats and species will be dealt

with at a later stage. Several projects have been launched to increase the knowledge base

regarding by-catch of harbour porpoise and seabirds.

Marine habitats and speices to be given special focus will also be addressed in the

management plans for the second plan period, which commences in 2016.


57

Annex B – Overview of designation of Natura 2000 sites

Natura 2000 site name

EU-code site

number

Designated as PSCI (year)

Revised PSCI

(year)

SCI appointed

(year)

SAC appointed

(year)

Total area (ha)

Reef area mapped

(ha)

Munkegrund DK00VA304 2002 2003 2005 2011 1329 656

Hatterbarn DK00VA255 1995 1998 2005 2011 633 351

Ryggen DK00VA253 1995 1998 2005 2011 437 133

Broen DK00VA256 1995 1998 2005 2011 588 449

Ertholmene DK007X079 2002 2003 2005 2011 1256 127

Davids Banke DK00VA308 2002 2003 2005 2011 839 360

Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund DK00VA310 2002 2003 2005 2011 299 226

The Natura 2000 sites Munkegrund, Hatterbarn, Ryggen, Broen and Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund are also

designated as Marine Protected Areas under HELCOM.


58

Annex C – Overview of the 11 information items in Commission

guidelines from 2008

The table below gives an overview of how the present proposal has covered the 11 information items of

the Commission’s guidelines from 200840 concerning development of proposals for fisheries management

measures in marine Natura 2000 within the scope of the CFP.

Section

1. Comprehensive description of the natural features including distribution

within the site

2.3.2, 5.1

2. Scientific rationale for the site´s selection in accordance with the

information provided in the Natura 2000 data form. Intrinsic value of

its features. Specific conservation objectives.

2.3

3. Basis for the spatial extent of the site boundary clearly justified in

terms of conservation objectives.

2.3

4. Threats to habitats and species from different types of fishing gear. List

of other human activities in the area that could damage the habitats.

2.3, 4.1

5. Fleet activity in the area and in the region, distribution of fleets (by

nation, gear and species), and information on target and by-catch

species, all over the last 3 years.

6.1

6. Seasonal trends in fisheries over the last 3 years. 6.2

7. Proposed fisheries management measures to maintain the habitats

features in favourable condition. Are they proportionate and

enforceable? Other conservation measures that apply to the area.

1.2, 1.3, 4, 5.2

8. Control measures envisaged by the Member State, possible ecological

and control buffer zones to ensure site protection and/or effective

control and monitoring measures.

6.4

9. Measures to monitor and assess the maintenance and/or recovery of

the features within the site.

6.4

10. Coordination with neighbouring Member States as appropriate. 3.2

11. Evaluation of possible displacement of fishing effort and impact on new

areas.

6.3

40 Fisheries measures for marine Natura 2000 sites – a consistent approach to requests for fisheries management measures under the Common Fisheries Policy: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/marine/docs/fish_measures.pdf

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/marine/docs/fish_measures.pdf


59

Annex D – Scientific advice regarding protection of reef structures

through buffer zones

Protection of stone reefs (habitat code H1170) and bubbling reefs (habitat code H1180)

For protection of stone reefs and bubbling reefs (habitat code H1170 and H1180) different protection

measures can be implemented. The Danish Technical University, Institute for Aquatic Resources (DTU

Aqua) has in relation to the present proposal provided scientific advice to the Danish AgriFish Agency with

the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries with regards to protection of reef structures.

DTU Aqua has analyzed fishing activity in and around the concerned Natura 2000 sites using VMS data

from Danish fishing vessels (vessels => 12m in length in 2012, vessels>=15 m in length in 2008-2011)

for the period 2008-2012. Based on these analyses, DTU Aqua has advised upon the need for the

protection of habitat code H1170 and H1180 against any impact from mobile bottom contacting fishing

gear, and that a safety zone (buffer zone) should be implemented around the mapped reef structures.

The safety zone is calculated by taking water depth, warp length and the length of the fishing gear into

account. The standard warp length used by trawlers in the concerned Natura 2000 sites is three times the

water depth, when water depth is less than 200 meter.

Water depth around the marine habitats (H1170 & H 1180) varies from 30 – 40 meters depth in the

Kattegat area where the concerned Natura 2000 sites are located. DTU Aqua has advised the Danish

AgriFish Agency to use the proportion 4:1 + length of the gear + 1 times the water depth for safety. This

method has resulted in a buffer zone of 240 meters around the mapped reef structures – code H1170.

DTU Aqua has furthermore advised that for habitat code H1180 in addition to placement of buffer zones in

relation to impact from mobile gear, usage of any other gear type may be prohibited if full protection of

this reef type is wanted.

The method of safety zones (buffer zones) is in line with the advice by ICES to a NEAFC request of the

appropriateness of buffer zones (ICES Advice 2013, Book, 1.5.5.2. Special request, Advice June 2013).

ICES Advice June 2013 is attached below.


60


61


62

Annex E - Overview of formal and informal consultations

Since the initiative to protection reef structures in Natura 2000 sites was launched in spring 2011 – formal

and informal consultations have been held with various stakeholders. The table below lists the meeting

held in relation to the present proposal.

Date Meeting Participants

March 2011 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum: First

presentation of initiative to protect reefs from

fisheries through safety zones/buffer zones.

Members of ‘Natura 2000 Dialogue

Forum’: Green NGO’s, fishermen

organizations, Ministry of

Environment, research institutes.

June, 2011 Meeting with the Swedish Marine Water and

Management Agency in Copenhagen:

Discussion of common understandings in

relation to Natura 2000 and protection of reef

structures in the Kattegat area – identical

challenges as for this proposal.

Representatives from the Swedish

Marine and Water Management

Agency and the Danish AgriFish

Agency.

October 2011 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Presentation of maps and process regarding

formulation of fisheries management measures

in accordance with the Commissions guidelines

from 2008.





March 2012 Pre-consultation meeting in Copenhagen,

Denmark: Presentation of methods, principles

and preliminary maps in relation to protection

of reef structures in Natura 2000 sites in the

Kattegat area – identical method as used in

the present proposal.

Authorities from Sweden and

Germany, ICES, NSRAC,

Commission, DTU Aqua, Danish

Ministry of Environment.

March 2012 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Orientation of the forum regarding the pre-

consultation meeting held with other MS, ICES,

the Commission etc.





September 2012 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Orientation of recent mapping exercise of

marine habitats in a range of Natura 2000 sites

and the coming process with adjustments of

maps and buffer zones.





November 2012 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Presentation of mapping exercise of 18 Natura

2000 sites in Danish waters.





January 2013 Meeting in Göteborg: Discussion of state of

play in relation to Natura 2000 and sites

located in the Kattegat area and other Natura

2000 sites designated for reefs.




Agency.

June 2013 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Presentation of proposal for protection of reef

structures in 4 coastal Natura 2000 sites prior





63

to public hearing of national administrative

order..


October 2013 Meeting in Göteborg: Presentation of draft

proposal for protection of reef structures in

three Natura 2000 sites in Kattegat and seven

sites in the Baltic Sea, all <12 nautical miles.




Agency.

Fall 2013 Several meetings with the Danish Fishermen

Organization. Discussion of fishing patterns in

relation protection of reef structures and

proposed buffer zones – also for smaller

vessels <12 meter.

Danish Fishermen Organization

and DTU Aqua and Danish AgriFish

Agency.

February 2014 Informal meeting with WWF Denmark

regarding Natura 2000 and fisheries.

WWF Denmark.

March 2014 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Presentation of present proposal of protection

of reef structures in 7 Natura 2000 sites in the

western Baltic Sea.





June 2014 Pre-consultation in Copenhagen Invitations sent to:

Fishery authorities from Sweden,

Germany and other MS of the

Scheveningen corporation.

Copy of proposal has also been

send to ICES, NSRAC,

Commission, DTU Aqua, Danish

Ministry of Environment and

Environmental Directors.

June 2014 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum Members of ‘Natura 2000 Dialogue




June-December

2014

Formulation of final version and joint

recommendation between DK, SE and DE.

Representatives from Swedish and

German fishery and environmental

departments.

4 December 2014 Meeting in Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum:

Presentation of State of Play in relation to

consultation with SE and DE.


Forum’: Green NGOs, fishermen




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Annex F Summary of outcome of the regional coordination process

Summary of the first meeting in the established ad hoc working group (DK, SE & DE) held on 27 August 2014 at the Danish AgriFish Agency in Copenhagen

Following the pre-consultation meeting on 26 June 2014, where the Danish AgriFish Agency

presented their proposals for Danish fisheries management measures for 10 Natura 2000 sites

(sites where other Member States have direct management interests), the first meeting in the

established ad hoc working group was scheduled.

The two Danish proposals cover fisheries management measures for the protection of reef

structures in 10 Natura 2000 sites; 3 sites in the Kattegat (North Sea) and 7 sites in the

western Baltic Sea, respectively.

Since the June pre-consultation meeting in Copenhagen, the two proposals have been in

consultation in both Germany and Sweden – though due to holiday etc. no specific or detailed

comments were forwarded by the two member states prior to the first meeting in the ad hoc

working group. Therefore, focus for the first meeting in the ad hoc working group was on a

discussion of whether data and information provided in the two draft proposals is sufficient and

whether there is a need for a third scientific review.

The European Commission did not attend the August meeting in the ad hoc working group. The

EU Commission (DG MARE and DG ENVI) have been highly involved in the process of

formulating the two proposals. There was an agreement among SE, DE and DK on the need for

the participation of the Commission at the coming meetings, where draft joint recommendations

are to be discussed.

Terms of Reference for regional coordination in the North Sea and Baltic Sea, respectively

DE gave a brief orientation of the status for the task of drafting Terms of References (ToR) for

the Technical Expert Group in relation to fisheries management measures in the context of

Natura 2000 within the Scheveningen group. The draft ToR was discussed in the July meeting in

Berlin with the purpose of joint acceptance of the document; one delegation however abstained

from accepting the last paragraph in the draft (paragraph on ‘Approval’). The ToR in its current

form will be discussed by the Fisheries Directors in the upcoming meeting in the Scheveningen

group (medio September 2014).

DK highlighted, that it is merely a question of whom each MS designates and thereby provides

the mandate in the situation of signing a joint recommendation. A joint recommendation can

only be obtained if all MS agree. DK briefly gave an orientation of status of the ToR in relation to

the BALTFISH group, which is also currently being drafted. DK, as the coordinator, has focus on

streamlining this ToR as much as possible with the ToR agreed upon for the Scheveningen group

in relation to Natura 2000/ MPA’s.


65

Copy of the Agenda

1. Welcome/ by The Danish AgriFish Agency

2. Orientation of outcome of stakeholders views on the Danish proposals (national NGO´s

and AC´s)

3. Discussion of the Danish proposals

a) Proposal for changes to the two documents: Suggestions from SE and DE to be

discussed

b) Data and information: is there a need for more data and information?

c) Scientific advice: is there a need for a third peer-review?

d) Timeframe: clarification regarding national process in SE and DE

4. Further process and meetings in the ad hoc working group: possible topics and

timeframe.

Outcome of the discussion on the two Danish proposals for fisheries

management measures

1. Proposals for changes to the two documents

Prior to the first meeting in the ad hoc working group, SE and DE were invited to forward

comments to the two draft proposals. In a parallel process, national stakeholders and the two

Advisory Councils for the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, respectively, were also invited to

forward their comments.

Prior to the first meeting in the ad hoc working group, a summary of comments received from

national stakeholders (NGO’s and the Danish Fishermen Association) and the two AC’s (NSAC

and BSAC), had been forwarded to SE and DE. The summary will be included in the two

proposals as an annex, Annex F (the same as for any comments given by MS). The comments

received from the above mentioned stakeholders primarily centers around definitions of stone

and biogenic reef structures, mapping of reef structures as well as how the Danish Natura 2000

sites have been designated, and the objective of focused measures, whereby only the reef

structure is protected.

A copy of the comments received will be forwarded to SE and DE after the meeting.

SE and DE had not prior to the meeting forwarded any specific comments/ suggestions for

changes to the two proposals. SE asked for more time to analyze the proposals. SE, however,

found the available fishery data sufficient and adequate.

DK is aware of the challenges with vessels < 12 meter. Dialogue with the Danish Fishermen

Association indicates, that smaller vessels more or less have a similar fishing pattern as larger

vessels. After implementation of the proposed management measures, DK will assess if there is

a need for more initiatives to handle these challenges, e.g. technical equipment on board, as

stated in the two proposals under section 6.4.

DE found the proposals well written and fishery data and analyses sufficient. DE is currently

discussing the Danish proposals with stakeholders.


66

2. Data and information

The Danish delegation sought to clarify the need for further data and information in the

proposals, before preparing a joint recommendation.

DE was satisfied with the proposals in their present form, especially, since DK very closely has

followed the suggestions given by DG ENVI and DG MARE. DE does not see the need for further

additional information or data for either of the two proposals.

SE found no need for additional data and information. SE, however, still have a need for further

analysis of the proposals, as well as time for a national process. SE asked whether data for

smaller vessels is included in the analyses carried out. DTU Aqua confirmed that the log book

data for smaller vessels is included. SE is also yet to finalize the dialogue with the fishing

industry before SE can agree to a joint recommendation.

3. Scientific advice: is there a need for a third peer-review?

SE and DE are satisfied with the two peer-reviews. However, DE will confirm their final position

next week.

The Swedish delegation had no comments to the scientific advice, which had been thoroughly

read by SLU (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences). SE asked whether DK also sought to

link the protection under the Habitats Directives with the obligations under MSFD, HELCOM and

OSPAR.

DK and DE both pointed out, that there for the time being are no legal obligations under the

MSFD, and the HELCOM and OSPAR are not legally binding agreements. DK stated that the

proposed management measures proposals solely seek to fulfill the obligations under the

Habitats Directive. The initiative to protect reef structures is one among several initiatives to

obtain ‘Good Environmental Status’. Thus, the proposed management measures will, at a later

stage play a role in the MSFD. SE finds that the link between Natura 2000 and MFSD, including

obligations within HELCOM and OSPAR, should be discussed further – however, not necessarily

in the ad hoc working group concerning the Danish proposals, but preferably within the expert

group that will be established within the Scheveningen and BALTFISH groups.

Agreement – proposals for changes to text

It was agreed with SE and DE that prior to the second meeting on 30 September 2014,

suggestions for changes to the text (editorial) should be forwarded. Alternatively, any

suggestions to text changes could be presented by SE and DE at the meeting, however, the

final wording etc. must be agreed upon at the third meeting scheduled for 5 November 2014.

Agreement – data and information

It was agreed that data and information is adequate and sufficient. There is therefore no

further need for additional data concerning fisheries.


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4. Timeframe and clarification regarding national process in SE and DE

The tentative timeframe which had been forwarded prior to the meeting seemed to be a bit

optimistic, in light of the fact, that there are yet comments to be forwarded from both Germany

and Sweden to the two draft proposals. During the meeting, the timeframe was edited and – the

second and third scheduled meetings in the ad hoc working group were moved. The second

meeting will be held on the 30 September 2014. A date for the third meeting has been set to 5

November 2014.

The Danish delegation hopes to forward a joint recommendation to the European Commission

within 2014, so the timeframe is quite stringent. To reach the joint recommendations all MS

need to have mandate/political approval. Both the German and the Swedish delegations

informed that there is no need for a parliamentary process in their countries in this regard.

SE and DE complimented the two Danish proposals for being comprehensive and based on

relevant principles and rationale. The extent of data and information in the two proposals were

agreed upon to be sufficient.

Both delegations, however, need to have further national discussions both between ministries

(fishery and environment) and with the industry, before any potential comments or support to a

joint recommendation can be given.

It was agreed upon, that at the next meeting on 30 September 2014 any comments from the

two delegations should preferably be forwarded to the Danish AgriFish Agency prior to the

meeting (latest by 23 September 2014).

The second meeting in the ad hoc working group will address any editorial changes and

hopefully go one step further in reaching a joint recommendation for the two proposals. The

Danish AgriFish Agency will prepare a draft joint recommendation and forward to all participants

before the second meeting on 30 September 2014 – latest by 18 September 2014.

Agreement – scientific advice

It was agreed that there is no need for a third scientific advice.

Furthermore it was stated that the overall objective of the Danish proposals for fisheries

management measures are to fulfill the obligations under the Habitats Directive.

Agreement – timeframe and clarification regarding national process in SE and DE

It was agreed that a tentative timeframe be forwarded with the summary.

In DE, the final agreement to the Danish proposals will be given at Agency level in coordination

with the respective ministries. In SE, an agreement on a joint recommendation will be

approved by the Swedish government. The Parliament in SE and DE do not need to approve of

the Danish proposals.


68

List of attending participants

Sweden: Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management: Karin Bjerner, Lena

Tingström

Germany: Federal Ministry of Food&§ Agriculture (Fisheries): Bruno Hoffstadt

Denmark: Danish Technical University / Institute of Aquatic Ressources: Josefine Egekvist

Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries / Danish AgriFish Agency: Elsbeth

Teichert, Anja Gadgård Boye, Pernille Birkenborg Jensen (ref.)

Summary of the second meeting in the established ad hoc working group (DK,

SE & DE) held on 5 November 2014 at the Danish AgriFish Agency in

Copenhagen

The second meeting in the ad hoc group was held on 5 November 2014, since the planned

meeting on 30 Septemberr 2014 was cancelled.

As the initiating Member State, the Danish AgriFish Agency had called for the meeting in order

to finalize the draft proposals for fisheries management measures in 10 Natura 2000 sites

located in the North Sea (3 sites) and Baltic Sea (7 sites), respectively as well as to launch the

discussions on the forwarded draft joint recommendations.

The European Commission did not attend the second meeting in the ad hoc working group. SE

reiterated the importance of the participation of the Commission in the process. DK and DE were

of the same view.

Copy of the agenda

1. Welcome/ by the Danish AgriFish Agency

2. Orientation of outcome of national process in Sweden and Germany with stakeholders

3. Discussion of the draft proposals

e) Text changes suggested by the Danish AgriFish Agency, Sweden and Germany

4. Discussion of draft Joint Recommendations

As agreed upon in the 1. Meeting in the ad hoc working group, the Danish AgriFish

Agency has formulated two draft Joint Recommendations as a basis for the discussion

5. Further process and meetings

6. A.O.B.


69

Outcome of the discussions on the two Danish proposals for fisheries management

measures and draft joint recommendations

1. Welcome

Prior to the meeting the Danish AgriFish Agency had forwarded revised versions of the draft

proposals containing the proposed editorial changes forwarded by Sweden and Denmark.

On 4 November 2014 the Danish AgriFish Agency forwarded revised versions of table 1 in order

to include a ban for ‘seines’ falling in the category of mobile bottom contacting gears in areas

mapped as reefs (H1170). The gear type ‘dredges’ has also been included – yet this gear type is

not allowed in the Natura 2000 sites concerned for Danish fishermen. However, the aim of

revising table 1 is to list all gear codes for the gears categorized as mobile bottom contacting

gears in the habitats addressed in the proposals.

SE and DE welcomed the Danish initiative to include ‘Seines’ as given in the revised table 1.

2. Orientation of outcome of national process in Sweden and Germany with

stakeholders

As agreed in the first meeting in the ad hoc group, SE and DE were to give a status regarding

the national process of the consultation of their national fishermen organizations/associations.

SE has consulted the Swedish fishermen organization. The Swedish fishermen organization has

no additional comments to the Danish proposals besides the comments forwarded by the

Advisory Councils for the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, respectively.

The German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection has consulted the

German fishing industry. Until now, no comments have been forwarded to the ministry.

3. Discussion of the draft proposals

The draft proposal for the Kattegat/North Sea was discussed in detail. DK would like the two

proposals to be finalized within the coming weeks, since SE and DE have had the proposals

since early June 2014.

Editorial changes to the text were made at the meeting. Text was added to the summary to

include the national consultation of fishermen organizations/associations in all three countries

and the consultation of the ACs and NGOs by DK. Text was also added to section 6.4.1 ‘Control,

Agreement –consultation of fishermen organizations/ associations, AC’s and NGO’s

It was agreed that i) a consultation of the fishermen organizations/associations have taken

place in the three countries, ii) the two AC’s have been consulted /no changes in the proposals

have been done but we have discussed and analyzed their comments, iii) NGOs have been

consulted by DK (WWF, OCEANA, Greenpeace & national NGOs in DK as well).

The consultation of the Swedish and German fishermen organizations/associations did not

result in changes to the two proposals.


70

enforcement and monitoring to clarify that the current model based on VMS is assessed

sufficiently in relation to control and monitoring of the proposed fisheries management

measures and to meet the requirements in the 11 points of the Commission’s Guidelines. In

case a re-evaluation assesses the need for more technical equipment (e.g. in the form of

sensors and GPS), such a requirement must be coordinated in accordance with Article 11 & 18.

Text regarding appointment of the 10 Natura 2000 sites as HELCOM and OSPAR sites will be

added to Annex B. Headline of Annex F was changed to ‘Summary of outcome of regional

coordination process’.

Besides the editorial changes made to the North Sea proposal, there were no additional

corrections to be made to the Baltic Sea proposal. The Danish AgriFish Agency will include all

the editorial changes agreed on for the North Sea proposal to the proposal for the Baltic Sea.

SE underlined that the proposals are part of a regional process initiated by DK. The concerned

fisheries management measures are proposed by the Danish Government in accordance with

the Danish management plans for Natura 2000 and should been seen as a step towards

achieving favorable conservation status for the marine habitat reefs (H1170 and H1180). The

Danish approach should, however, not be regarded as precedent for other conservation

measures regarding fisheries initiated by other Member States. Thus, other Member States will

propose measures in accordance with their perception of necessary actions to be taken in

relation to the implementation of the Habitats Directive and protection of marine habitats and

species from fisheries. The group agreed upon this point referring to the basis of the articles 11

and 18.

4. Discussion of the draft Joint Recommendations

The forwarded two draft Joint Recommendations were discussed. Editorial changes were made

to the introduction and section 2 regarding ‘seines’ and gear groups to be banned in areas

mapped as reefs (H1170 & H1180). Regarding section 3 on ‘Control and enforcement of

proposed fisheries management measures’, it was agreed that DK should consult the

Commission, whether this section is to be included in a Joint Recommendation.

Agreement –discussion of the draft proposals

It was agreed that the wording of the two proposals with the agreed editorial changes reflect

the process and outcome of stakeholder involvement (fishermen, NGOs, ACs etc.) as well as

the discussions in the ad hoc working group.

The proposed changes to table 1 and section 1.3 were agreed upon.

The final proposals will be forwarded to the ad hoc working group on 7 November 2014 for a

very last consultation. Deadline for forwarding comments was set to 21 November 2014.


71

5. Further process and meetings

The Danish AgriFish Agency will consult the Commission regarding the Danish proposals

regarding the Commission’s view on the wording of Joint Recommendations.


Sweden: Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management: Malin Wilhelmsson, Lena

Tingström

Germany: Federal Ministry of Food & Agriculture & Consumer Protection (Fisheries): Bruno

Hoffstadt

Federal Ministry of Environment: Lothar Fiedler

Denmark: Danish Technical University / Institute of Aquatic Resources: Josefine Egekvist

Danish Nature Agency: Marie-Louise Krawack

Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries / Danish AgriFish Agency: Elsbeth

Teichert, Anja Gadgård Boye, Pernille Birkenborg Jensen.

Agreement –discussion of the draft Joint Recommendations

It was agreed that the wording of the two Joint Recommendations with the agreed editorial

changes reflect the measures proposed to be regulated in the 10 Natura 2000 sites.

DK will consult the Commission regarding the section on Control and Enforcement and whether

the section should be part of a joint recommendation.

Revised Joint Recommendations will be forwarded to the ad hoc working group on 7 November

2014 for a very last consultation. Deadline for forwarding comments was set to 21 November

2014.

Agreement –further process and meetings

It was agreed that the third meeting in the ad hoc working groups will be held on 1 December

2014 in Copenhagen.

The final proposals and revised Joint Recommendations will be forwarded to the ad hoc

working group on 7 November 2014 for a very last consultation. Deadline for forwarding

comments was agreed to be set to 21 November 2014.


72

Summary of the third meeting in the established ad hoc working group (DK, SE & DE) held on 3 December 2014 at the Danish AgriFish Agency in

Copenhagen

The third meeting in the ad hoc group was held on 3 December 2014.

As the initiating Member State, the Danish AgriFish Agency had called for the meeting in order

to finalize the draft joint recommendations. The meeting was held as a skype meeting between

Denmark and Sweden, since Germany, prior to the meeting, had communicated that Germany

abstains and thereby do not hinder Denmark and Sweden from jointly recommending the


Copy of the agenda

1. Outcome of meeting with DG ENVI and DG MARE

2. Discussion of Joint Recommendations – section 3 ‘Control and enforcement’

3. Discussion of timeframe for finalizing the joint recommendations – Dk’s deadline is

submission to the Commission before Christmas.

4. National process in DK

5. National process in SE

6. A.O.B.

1. Outcome of the meeting the Danish AgriFish Agency had with DG ENVI and DG

MARE on 25 November 2014

The Danish AgriFish Agency had requested for a meeting with the Commission regarding the

Danish proposals and draft joint recommendations. From the Commission Fotios Papoulias (DG

ENVI) and Marta Janakakisz (DG MARE) participated in the meeting.

The two proposals were discussed with the Commission. The Commission did not have additional

questions and request for text, data etc. regarding the two proposals besides a request for a

text box regarding state of play in relation to the implementation of Natura 2000 in Denmark. A

text box has therefore been added to Annex A. Sweden has approved of the wording of the text

box as this is in line with the Swedish comments.

Regarding the draft Joint recommendation, the Danish AgriFish Agency had requested for a

discussion on form, format and content. In section three, on Control and Enforcement, the

Agency wanted a clarification from the Commission whether to leave the section in or out of the

Joint recommendation

The Commission found the joint recommendation sufficient regarding information etc. DG MARE

found that section 3 should remain in the joint recommendation and clearly state in the first

paragraph, that no additional requirements in relation to control and enforcement are proposed.

Section 3 of the joint recommendation has been amended as has section 6.4 in order to

streamline the wording.


73

There was a short discussion regarding Germany’s position of abstaining. The Danish AgriFish

Agency refereed to the pelagic discard ban, where Denmark also abstained to join the additional

recommendation and thereby did not hinder the formation of consensus according to the MoU

for the Scheveningen corporation. A similar agreement is found in the MoU of the BALTFISH

corporation.

The Danish AgriFish Agency informed the Commission, that the Danish proposals are planned

submitted late December 2014 or early January 2015.

2. Discussion of the Joint Recommendations

There was a short discussion of the draft Joint Recommendations. Sweden agreed to the new

wording of part of section 3.

3. Discussion of timeframe for finalizing the joint recommendations

4 & 5. National process in DK and SE

DK is in the process of briefing Parliament and relevant committees.

SE informed that once the Joint recommendation have been agreed upon at a technical level, a

formal procedure can be launched.

7. A.O.B

No matters were raised.

Agreement – joint recommendations

It was agreed that the joint recommendations be forwarded once again for a last check and

approval at the technical level.

Once the ad hoc group has agreed on the wording – the Joint Recommendations are to be

formally agreed before being presented to the HLG of the BALTFISH and Scheveningen

corporations, respectively.

Agreement – timeframe

It was agreed that DK forward the joint recommendations containing the revised text/ wording

of section 3 for a last check and approval at the technical level.

Once SE has agreed at the technical level – the joint recommendations are to be forwarded to

the members of the ad hoc working group for formal procedure prior to being forwarded to the

HLG (BALTFISH/ Scheveningen) before being submitted to the Commission.

DK hopes to forward the Joint Recommendations to the HLG before Christmas – or by early

January 2015.


74


Sweden: Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management: Malin Wilhelmsson, Lena

Tingström

Denmark: Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries / Danish AgriFish Agency: Anja

Gadgård Boye, Pernille Birkenborg Jensen.


75

Annex G Summary of outcome of consultation with the Advisory

Councils for the North Sea and Baltic Sea, respectively, and the Natura

2000 Dialogue Forum

National stakeholders and Advisory Councils received the Danish proposals for fisheries management

measures on 10 June 2014 for commenting. Deadline for forwarding comments was set to 18 July 2014.

Comments have been received from the following NGO’s, organizations, etc.:

- WWF Denmark

- OCEANA

- GREENPEACE

- Danish Society for Nature Conservation (DN)

- Danish Fishermen Association (DFPO)

- Advisory Council Baltic Sea

- Advisory Council North Sea

A summary of the comments received in relation to the proposed fisheries management measures is given

below.

NGOs (WWF, OCEANA, GREENPEACE & DN)

The green NGOs in Denmark have jointly submitted their comments. The green NGOs welcome the Danish

initiative and stress the importance of adequate protection of reef structures in Natura 2000 sites.

The green NGOs request the parameters below be taken into account:

- the Natura 2000 areas to be fully closed to fishing activities with mobile bottom contacting gears

- for some areas to be partly or fully closed to all fishing activities – particular those areas containing

the most vulnerable habitats

- that Denmark provides incentives and strategically supports the fisheries using low-impact gear, for

instance by supporting small-scale low impact fisheries under EMFF or by using criteria for allocating

of fishing opportunities as dictated in Article 17 of the new CFP.

The green NGOs find the Danish proposals too unambitious and not sufficient to protect the marine

environment. More focus should be given to habitat functions and characteristic plants and animals that

belong to reef structures. Larger areas in which fisheries is restricted should therefore be persued, which

would also take sandbanks (H1110) into account.

The green NGOs also argue that the definition used in relation to reef structures does not take all relevant

reef structures into account. This discussion has been taking place over the last 2-3 years between the green

NGOs and the Danish Ministry of Environment.

The green NGOs highlight control and enforcement of small areas as a challenge, and ask for clarification of

gear types to be prohibited.


76

Danish Fishermen Association (DFPO)

The Danish Fishermen Association welcomes the Danish proposals and foresee little or no conflict with

current fishing activities. DFPO highlights the importance of focused management measures, which takes

into account the technical equipment fishermen make use of in their fishing activities, enabling them to at

any given time to know their precise location.

Buffer zones should be site specific and should take fishing pattern into account. Thus, smaller buffer zones

should be a possibility in those circumstances where fishing activities are restricted in areas where fishing

patterns show straight trawl lines. Only in these circumstances should a reduced buffer zone be a possibility.

This approach is especially important for coastal sites, since small-scale fishermen cannot necessarily move

to other fishing grounds. An example is the Natura 2000 site “Læsø Trindel & Tønneberg Banke”, where

vessels below 12 meters have some activities.

DFPO also stress close dialogue and transparency as important elements in these processes of formulation of

fisheries management measures. DFPO questions the Danish approach to protect reef structures outside the

Natura 2000 sites and finds no explanation thereof in the proposals.

Finally, DFPO argues that catch values can be underestimated by up to 10 pct. Estimates of catch values

should therefore be used with some caution.

Advisory Councils (Baltic Sea & North Sea, respectively)

The Advisory Council – Baltic Sea, welcomes the Danish proposals and is looking forward to following and

contributing to the process of finalizing the two proposals. No specific comments were submitted.

The Advisory Council – North Sea, also welcomes the Danish initiative. The comments submitted by the

Advisory Council for the North Sea do not contain additional comments compared to the comments

submitted by the Danish Fishermen Association, DFPO.

Further process in relation to comments received regarding the Danish proposals for fisheries management

measures for protection of reef structures designated under the Habitats Directives

The Danish AgriFish Agency has discussed the comments received and finds no need for editorial changes.

The proposed fisheries management measures aims at ensuring adequate protection of reef structures

designated under the habitats directive. This initiative will alongside other initiatives contribute to better

environmental status of Denmark’s marine waters. The reef structures are protected in their full extent –

also if the reef structure continues outside the boundary of the Natura 2000 site. The rationale behind this

approach is given in section 4. There is no rationale for protecting the entire site/full closure, if reef

structures are not present. Proposed measures must comply with the proportionality principle so that they

do not go further than necessary to ensure the needed protection of the mapped reef within the framework

of the habitats directive. The aim of Article 6 (2,3) is to find the balance between protection of marine

habitats and species and management of fishing activities – also assessing the precautionary principles. The

gear types to be prohibited are given in section 1.3 at the level of gear codes.


77

Denmark is at the moment prioritizing funds for the Danish program under the EMFF, where development of

low impact gear is a priority.

The comments regarding designation of sites and definition of reef structures is not part of the proposed

measures, and have therefore been forwarded to the Ministry of Environment.

The Danish AgriFish Agency has presented the jointly agreed proposed fisheries management measures for

protection of reefs to the Natura 2000 Dialogue Forum and Advisory Councils in a meeting held on 4

December 2014.


78

Point Degrees Minutes Degrees Minutes

1S 55 57.190 10 51.690

2S 55 57.465 10 51.403

3S 55 57.790 10 51.477

4S 55 57.976 10 52.408

5S 55 57.985 10 54.231

6S 55 58.092 10 54.315

7S 55 58.092 10 57.432

8S 55 57.920 10 57.864

9S 55 57.526 10 57.861

10S 55 56.895 10 57.241

11S 55 57.113 10 53.418

12S 55 57.050 10 53.297

13S 55 57.100 10 52.721

14S 55 57.275 10 52.662

15S 55 57.296 10 52.435

16S 55 57.399 10 52.244

17S 55 57.417 10 52.116

18S 55 57.251 10 52.121

19S 55 57.170 10 51.919

20S 55 57.190 10 51.690

Latitude N Longitude E

Annex H – Buffer zones and coordinates

”Munkegrund”

Habitat Site No. H205, Natura 2000 site No. 205 (EU Code: DK00VA304)

Coordinates of the buffer zone which form the protection of the stone reef:


79

“Hatterbarn“


Coordinates of the buffer zone which form the protection of the stone reefs:

Nordlig bredde Østlig længde

Punkt Grader Minutter Grader Minutter

1S 55 51.942 10 49.294

2S 55 52.186 10 49.309

3S 55 52.655 10 49.509

4S 55 52.676 10 49.407

5S 55 52.892 10 49.269

6S 55 52.974 10 49.388

7S 55 53.273 10 49.620

8S 55 53.492 10 50.201

9S 55 53.451 10 50.956

10S 55 53.576 10 51.139

11S 55 53.611 10 51.737

12S 55 53.481 10 52.182

13S 55 53.311 10 52.458

14S 55 53.013 10 52.634

15S 55 52.898 10 52.622

16S 55 52.778 10 52.335

17S 55 52.685 10 52.539

18S 55 52.605 10 52.593

19S 55 52.470 10 52.586

20S 55 52.373 10 52.724


80

21S 55 52.286 10 52.733

22S 55 52.129 10 52.572

23S 55 52.101 10 52.360

24S 55 52.191 10 52.169

25S 55 51.916 10 51.824

26S 55 51.881 10 51.648

27S 55 51.970 10 51.316

28S 55 51.976 10 51.064

29S 55 52.325 10 50.609

30S 55 52.647 10 50.687

31S 55 52.665 10 50.519

32S 55 52.091 10 50.101

33S 55 51.879 10 50.104

34S 55 51.810 10 49.853

35S 55 51.790 10 49.482

36S 55 51.942 10 49.294


81


1S 55 37.974 10 44.258

2S 55 37.942 10 45.181

3S 55 37.737 10 45.462

4S 55 37.147 10 44.956

5S 55 36.985 10 45.019

6S 55 36.828 10 44.681

7S 55 36.521 10 44.658

8S 55 36.527 10 43.575

9S 55 37.163 10 43.663

10S 55 37.334 10 43.889

11S 55 37.974 10 44.258


”Ryggen”




82


1S 55 11.953 11 0.089

2S 55 12.194 11 0.717

3S 55 12.316 11 0.782

4S 55 12.570 11 1.739

5S 55 12.743 11 1.917

6S 55 12.911 11 2.291

7S 55 12.748 11 2.851

8S 55 12.487 11 3.188

9S 55 12.291 11 3.088

10S 55 12.274 11 3.108

11S 55 12.336 11 3.441

12S 55 12.023 11 3.705

13S 55 11.751 11 2.984

14S 55 11.513 11 2.659

15S 55 11.390 11 2.269

16S 55 11.375 11 2.072

17S 55 11.172 11 1.714

18S 55 11.069 11 0.935

19S 55 11.099 11 0.764

20S 55 11.256 11 0.588

21S 55 11.337 11 0.483

22S 55 11.582 11 0.251

23S 55 11.603 11 0.254

24S 55 11.841 11 0.033

25S 55 11.953 11 0.089


“Broen”




83


1S 55 19.496 15 9.290

2S 55 20.441 15 9.931

3S 55 20.490 15 10.135

4S 55 20.284 15 10.690

5S 55 20.216 15 10.690

6S 55 20.004 15 11.187

7S 55 19.866 15 11.185

8S 55 19.596 15 11.730

9S 55 19.820 15 12.157

10S 55 19.638 15 12.539

11S 55 19.131 15 12.678

12S 55 18.804 15 11.892

13S 55 18.847 15 10.967

14S 55 19.445 15 9.885

15S 55 19.387 15 9.717

16S 55 19.496 15 9.290


“Ertholmene”

Habitat Site No. H210, Natura 2000 site No. 189 (EU Code: DK007X079)



84


1S 55 20.167 14 41.386

2S 55 20.354 14 40.754

3S 55 21.180 14 39.936

4S 55 22.000 14 39.864

5S 55 22.331 14 39.741

6S 55 22.449 14 39.579

7S 55 23.150 14 39.572

8S 55 23.299 14 39.890

9S 55 23.287 14 40.793

10S 55 23.011 14 41.201

11S 55 22.744 14 41.206

12S 55 22.738 14 41.775

13S 55 22.628 14 42.111

14S 55 22.203 14 42.439

15S 55 22.050 14 42.316

16S 55 21.981 14 41.605

17S 55 21.050 14 41.818

18S 55 20.301 14 41.676

19S 55 20.167 14 41.386


“Davids Banke”




85


1S 54 57.955 14 44.869

2S 54 58.651 14 41.755

3S 54 59.234 14 41.844

4S 54 59.458 14 43.025

5S 54 59.124 14 44.441

6S 54 59.034 14 44.429

7S 54 58.781 14 45.240

8S 54 58.298 14 45.479

9S 54 58.134 14 45.406

10S 54 57.955 14 44.869


”Bakkebrædt & Bakkegrund”




86

Annex I - Fishery data: Description of methods

This Annex describes the methods used in the analyses of fishing activity in and around the Natura 2000

sites covered in the present proposal. Fishery data in terms of log book and VMS data have been forwarded

by Swedish and German fishery authorities for the period 2010-2012 upon special request.

The Danish Technical University, Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) has carried out the analyses

for the Danish AgriFish Agency in accordance with the Commissions guidelines from 2008 “Fisheries

measures for marine Natura 2000 sites – A consistent approach to request for fisheries management

measures under the Common Fisheries Policy”. Special focus has been given to the impact the proposed

fishery management measures might have on current fishing activities in and around the concerned Natura

2000 sites.

The Natura 2000 sites in which fishery management measures are proposed are located in several ICES

squares. By combining log book data and VMS pings, fishing intensity for a smaller area, such as a Natura

2000 site, can be estimated. Methods for working with the combined logbook/VMS data have been

developed during the EU project “Development of tools for logbook and VMS data analysis” (No

Mare/2008/10 Lot2), resulting in the R-package VMStools. This method has also been recommended by

the ICES groups SGVMS/WGSFD. DTU Aqua’s analysis of fishery data in relation to present proposal follows

these recommendations.

Description of methods

VMS data has been merged with logbook data using vessel-id and date, which gives information of gear

types used in each trip. VMS data contains information about vessel-id, position, time and speed.

When the gear type is known, a speed filter can be applied to the VMS data, whereby only the active

fishing operations are analyzed. The speed filters used in this analysis are based on speed histograms

given by gear groups. Two examples of speed histograms for bottom trawls and nets are displayed below

in figure 1 and 2.

Figure 1 and 2. Speed histograms for bottom trawls and net types


87

The table below shows the speed filters used in analyses carried out in relation to the present proposal.

Gear group Gear codes Min speed

Max speed

Dredge DRB, DRO, DRC, BMS 2 4.5

Bottom trawls OTB, OTT, PTB, TBN, TBS 2 4

Beam trawl TBB 2 4

Pelagic trawls OTM, PTM 2 4

Lines LH, LHP, LL, LLD, LLS, LX 0 0.1

Traps FPO, FYK, FPN 0 4

Nets GTR, GNS, GND, GN 0 4

Anchored seine SDN 0 4

Fly shooting seine SSC 0 4

Purse seine PS 0 4

An uncertainty in this method is that the speed filters applied, are very general. However, it is the

experience of DTU Aqua that the above given speed filters give a good overall picture of the fishing activity

in areas in concern. Another challenge with the data set is that VMS was only mandatory for vessels >=15

m oal in 2010 and 2011, however in 2012 VMS became mandatory for vessels >=12 m oal.

In 2012, 20% of the landings in weight in SD 22-24 were from vessels <12 meters. In 2011 and 2010, the

value was 48 % and 39 %, respectively for Danish vessels.

In SD 25, 8 % of the landed weights were in 2012 landed by vessels <12 meters. In 2010, the value was

29 % and in 2011, 31% for vessels< 15 meters, respectively.

Description of data: VMS and logbook data for DK, SE and DE vessels

German data was sent to Denmark as VMS positions with fishing activity containing information about

level 6 metier, kW and landings by species. The value of the landing is given by VMS position.

The Swedish data included summarized weight and values for the Natura 2000 areas concerned (given

for the entire fleet). Swedish VMS positions given in the report “Evaluation of the effect of effort

redistribution and gear changes in relation to the closed areas in Kattegat” have been used in this study as

well. That dataset only contains information on mobile bottom contacting gear groups (TR1 and TR2).

In the Danish data, mobile bottom contacting gears are defined as Bottom trawls, Beam trawls, Anchored

Seines, Fly shooting seines and Dredges. Other gears include Nets, Lines, Pelagic trawls, Traps and Purse


88

seines. In the German data mobile bottom contacting gears are defined as OTB, PTB, SSC, TBB, DRB and

SDN. Other gears include GNS, GTR, OTM and PTM. Swedish VMS data only include mobile bottom

contacting gears.

Description of data: Landing weight and values for DK, SE and DE

In order to assess the impact of the proposed fisheries management measures, landings weight and value

need to be assessed per Natura 2000 site for different gear groups.

Log books contain information about landed weight by species while sales slips data includes weight and

value by species per fishing trip.

For the Danish data, DTU Aqua has merged these estimates to distribute the value on the trip

proportionally to the landings weight. The dataset including species, weight and value is then merged with

the VMS positions by vessel-id and date. This means that the weight and value by species is distributed

evenly out on VMS positions where fishing activity is assumed, by vessel-id and date.

The landings and values by species within a Natura 2000 area can then be summarized (see section 5.2).

An average exchange rate of 7.45 DKK/EUR has been used in the analyses.

The Swedish data on landings in the Natura 2000 areas were received as landed kg per year per Natura

2000 area, DCF level 6 metier and species. The data used is based on Swedish log books, which include

fishing event positions. The dataset covers the whole Swedish fleet, thus also landings from smaller vessels

<12 meters. For this study, VMS positions have only been made available for the mobile bottom contacting

gear groups TR1 and TR2. To estimate the value of the Swedish landings, the species prices per kg from

the Danish landings have been used.

The German data includes VMS positions with landings and value associated to each position.

Annex J (table 1-12) show that the landings from the seven Natura 2000 sites are small compared to the

total fishing activities in the Belt Sea and western Baltic Sea.


89

Annex J - Total landings and catch value per country per Natura 2000

site

Annex G contains information of total landings and catch value per country per site per year (table 1-6)

and at species level per country per site per year (table 7-12).

Data in the following tables are not specified with thousands-seperator. All the values are in total

kilograms.

Table 1: Total landings (kg) from Danish vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas 2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012

Mean (2010-2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 75 25

Broen 0 0 14,855 4,952

Ertholmene 9,655 5,823 3,850 6,443

Davids Banke 1,019 0 9,153 3,391 Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0

Table 2: Total landings (kg) from Swedish vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas 2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012

Mean (2010-2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 0 0

Broen 0 0 0 0

Ertholmene 0 0 0 0

Davids Banke 0 5,942 20,322 8,755 Bakkebrædt og

Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0

Table 3: Total landings (kg) from German vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas 2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012

Mean (2010-2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 0 0

Broen 0 0 0 0

Ertholmene 1007 308 0 438

Davids Banke 0 0 0 0

Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0


90

Table 4: Value of the total landings (EUR) from Danish vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas

2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012 Mean (2010-

2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 560 187

Broen 0 0 36,354 12,118

Ertholmene 4,077 1,179 1,203 2,153

Davids Banke 1,656 0 6,033 2,563 Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0

Table 5: Value of the total landings (EUR) from Swedish vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas

2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012 Mean (2010-

2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 0 0

Broen 0 0 0 0

Ertholmene 0 0 0 0

Davids Banke 0 7,724 24,884 10,869 Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0

Table 6: Value of the total landings (EUR) from German vessels in the seven Natura 2000 areas

2010-2012

N2000 area/Year 2010 2011 2012 Mean (2010-

2012)

Munkegrund 0 0 0 0

Hatterbarn 0 0 0 0

Ryggen 0 0 0 0

Broen 0 0 0 0

Ertholmene 1531 465 0 665

Davids Banke 0 0 0 0 Bakkebrædt og

Bakkegrund 0 0 0 0


91

Table 7: Weight (kg) of landings from Danish vessels by year

Natura 2000 area Gear group Species 2010 2011 2012 Mean (2010-

2012)

Broen Gillnet Atlantic Cod 0 0 13,632 4,544

Brill 0 0 27 9

Common Dab 0 0 311 104

Common Sole 0 0 16 5

European Flounder 0 0 137 46

European Plaice 0 0 550 183

Lumpfish 0 0 168 56

Turbot 0 0 15 5

Broen Total

0 0 14,855 4,952

Davids Banke Bottom trawl Atlantic Cod 731 0 0 244


Gillnet Atlantic Cod 0 0 227 76



Pelagic trawl Atlantic Herring 0 0 8,918 2,973

Davids Banke

Total

1,019 0 9,153 3,391

Ertholmene Bottom trawl Atlantic Cod 833 0 0 278

Atlantic Herring 8,250 0 0 2,750


Sprat 500 0 0 167


Common Dab 6 0 0 2

Pelagic trawl Atlantic Cod 0 8 0 3

Sprat 0 5,815 3,850 3,222

Ertholmene Total

9,655 5,823 3,850 6,443

Ryggen Gillnet Atlantic Mackerel 0 0 25 8

Common Dab 0 0 4 1

Common Sole 0 0 7 2


European Lobster 0 0 15 5


Ryggen Total

0 0 75 25


92

Table 8: Weight (kg) of landings from Swedish vessels by year

Natura 2000 area Gear group Species 2010 2011 2012

Mean (2010-2012)

Davids Banke Gillnet Atlantic Cod 0 5,920 19,896 8,605



Lines Atlantic Cod 0 0 374 125

Davids Banke

Total 0 5,942 20,322 8,755

Table 9: Weight (kg) of landings from German vessels by year


Mean (2010-

2012)

Ertholmene Bottom trawl Atlantic Cod 1,007 305 0 437

Whiting 0 3 0 1

Ertholmene Total 1,007 308 0 438

Table 10: Value of landings (EUR) from Danish vessels by year


Mean (2010-

2012)

Broen Gillnet Atlantic Cod 0 0 34,138 11,379

Brill 0 0 178 59

Common Dab 0 0 337 112




Lumpfish 0 0 503 168

Turbot 0 0 106 35

Broen Total

0 0 36,354 12,118

Davids Banke Bottom trawl Atlantic Cod 1,361 0 0 454





Pelagic

trawl Atlantic Herring 0 0 5,658 1,886

Davids Banke Total

1,656 0 6,033 2,563

Ertholmene

Bottom

trawl Atlantic Cod 1,035 0 0 345

Atlantic Herring 2,924 0 0 975


Sprat 53 0 0 18


Common Dab 2 0 0 1

Pelagic trawl Atlantic Cod 0 8 0 3


93

Sprat 0 1,171 1,203 791

Ertholmene Total

4,077 1,179 1,203 2,153

Ryggen Gillnet Atlantic Mackerel 0 0 82 27

Common Dab 0 0 2 1



European Lobster 0 0 335 112


Ryggen Total

0 0 560 187

Table 11: Value of landings (EUR) from Swedish vessels by year

Natura 2000 area Gear group Species 2010 2011 2012 Mean (2010-

2012)

Davids Banke Gillnet Atlantic Cod 0 7,701 24,392 10,698



Lines Atlantic Cod 0 0 459 153

Davids Banke Total 0 7,724 24,884 10,869

Table 12: Value of landings (EUR) from German vessels by year. Note there is no information on

value on species level.

Natura 2000 area Gear group 2010 2011 2012

Mean (2010-2012)

Ertholmene Bottom trawls 1531 465 0 665


94

Annex K - Fishery effort

Fishery effort can be expressed as VMS effort to give an indication of where in a given area, fishing activity

takes place and at what intensity. DTU Aqua has analyzed fishery effort in relation to the present proposal

for Danish, Swedish and German vessels.

Danish vessels

VMS effort is expressed as VMS point*VMS interval*kW of the vessel for each VMS ping classified as active

fishing. As the VMS interval for Danish vessels is one hour it will be expressed as VMS point*kW. In 2010

and 2011 the VMS data are available for vessels >=15 m, whereas in 2012 the VMS data are available for

vessels >=12 m. To make a VMS effort estimate that is comparable between years, the amount of extra

effort that the vessels of length 12-15 meters are adding to the 2012 data can be expressed as (VMS*kW

12-15m)/(VMS*kW >=15m). This gives the raising factors shown in the table below. The 2010 and 2011

data are raised by these factors accordingly.

Table 1: Factors for raising the 2010 and 2011 VMS effort

Subdivisions Gear group Raising factor

22-24 Mobile bottom contacting gears 0.531

22-24 Other gears 0.550

25 Mobile bottom contacting gears 0.169

25 Other gears 0.181

The average VMS effort within cell sizes of 2000 m for the years 2010-2012 is shown in the maps below

(figure 1 and 2) for bottom contacting mobile gears and other gears.

Figure 1. Average, 2010-2012, distribution of Danish fishing VMS effort (Number of VMS

recordings * vessel kW) by gear group in subdivisions 22-24

Figure 2. Average, 2010-2012, distribution of Danish fishing VMS effort (Number of VMS

recordings * vessel kW) by gear group in subdivision 25


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The maps of the Natura 2000 areas with VMS positions shows that there is no VMS effort from Danish

vessels with mobile bottom contacting gears inside the 5 Natura 2000 areas in subdivisions 22-24,

however with other gears there is some effort in the area referred to as “Broen”. In the two Natura 2000

sites located in SD 25 there is nearly no activity with mobile gears, but a small activity with other gears.

Table 2-4 show VMS-effort for Danish vessels in SD 22-24 and 25 for the period 2010-2012. Effort is seen

to be relatively low regardless of site and gear type.

Table 2. VMS Effort inside the Natura2000 areas and buffer zones, relatively to the total VMS

effort in subdivisions 22-24 for Danish vessels with other gears

Natura2000 area Stone reef buffer

Munkegrund 0.000‰ 0.000‰

Hatterbarn 0.000‰ 0.000‰

Ryggen 0.291‰ 0.321‰

Broen 5.109‰ 6.986‰

Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund 0.000‰ 0.000‰

Total 5.400‰ 7.307‰


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Table 3. VMS Effort inside the Natura2000 areas and buffer zones relatively to the total VMS

effort in subdivision 25 for Danish vessels with mobile bottom contacting gears


Ertholmene 0.037‰ 0.012‰

Davids Banke 0.012‰ 0.012‰

Total 0.049‰ 0.024‰

Table 4. VMS Effort inside the Natura2000 areas and buffer zones relatively to the total VMS

effort in subdivision 25 for Danish vessels with other gears


Ertholmene 0.579‰ 0.000‰

Davids Banke 1.864‰ 2.004‰

Total 2.443‰ 2.004‰

Swedish vessels

Swedish VMS data inside Danish EEZ for the years 2010 to 2012 have been submitted for this study. For

each VMS position there is information about gear, ping period, métier and kW. The VMS effort for the

Swedish data is calculated as VMS ping*kW*pingperiod. An average VMS effort map for the years 2010-

2012 is calculated in the same way as for the Danish vessels.


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Figure 5 Average, 2010-2012, distribution of Swedish fishing VMS effort (Number of VMS

recordings * vessel kW * ping-period) by gear group

There is no VMS effort from Swedish vessels inside the Natura 2000 areas in subdivisions 22-24 the period

2010-2012, and no VMS effort from Swedish vessels fishing with mobile bottom contacting gears inside the

Natura 2000 areas in subdivision 25 during the period 2010-2012. The mean VMS effort of Swedish vessels

fishing with other gears during the period 2010-2012 inside the Natura 2000 area “Davids Banke” is


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0.452‰ compared to the total VMS effort from Swedish vessels in the Danish EEZ of subdivision 25. The

VMS effort inside the Stone Reef Buffer of “Davids Banke” is 1.101‰ compared to the total VMS effort

from Swedish vessels in the Danish EEZ part of subdivision 25.

German vessels

The German VMS data has a kw_fishing variable that gives the VMS Effort. The German VMS data covers

the Danish EEZ. Using this variable an average VMS effort map for the years 2010-2012 is calculated in the

same way as for the Danish vessels.


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Figure 6 Average, 2010-2012, distribution of German fishing VMS effort in subdivisions 22-24

and 25 by gear group


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In subdivisions 22-24 there is only VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile bottom contacting

gears in the Stone Reef Buffer of the Natura 2000 area “Bakkebrædt og Bakkegrund. The effort inside the

Stone Reef Buffer is 0.123‰ of the total VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile bottom

contacting gears inside the Danish EEZ in subdivisions 22-24.

In subdivision 25 there is VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile bottom contacting gears in

the Natura 2000 area “Ertholmene”. In the Natura 2000 area Ertholmene the VMS effort is 0.336‰

compared to the total VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile bottom contacting gears inside

the Danish EEZ in subdivision 25. Inside the Stone Reef Buffer the VMS effort is 0.167‰ compared to the

total VMS effort from German vessels fishing with mobile bottom contacting gears inside the Danish EEZ in

subdivision 25.

Total VMS effort

The maps below show the combined VMS effort as a mean of the period 2010-2012 for Danish, Swedish

and German vessels using bottom contacting mobile gears and other gears in subdivision 22-24 and 25.


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Figure 7 Average, 2010-2012, distribution of Danish, Swedish and German fishing VMS effort by

gear group in subdivisions 22-24 and 25

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