Desk study to assess the impact of cockle suction dredging on The Wash and North Norfolk Coast European Marine Site (ENRR670)

The report reviews available evidence on impacts of cockle suction dredging on cockles, their habitat and associated wildlife. Comparison is made with impacts of other cockle fishing techniques. The report describes the relevance of these studies to The Wash, identifies gaps in knowledge requiring research, and considers ways to mitigate any impacts of suction dredging by managing and modifying fishing activities. The available data on cockle fisheries, stocks and the environment and biota of The Wash which may allow further analysis of possible impacts is reviewed.