Loch Creran Management Plan

LOCH CRERAN MARINE SAC MANAGEMENT PLAN ARGYLL MARINE SPECIAL AREAS OF CONSERVATION

LOCH CRERAN MARINE SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION

MANAGEMENT PLAN

CONTENTS

Executive Summary

1. Introduction CONTENTS

The Habitats Directive 1.1

Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum 1.2

Aims of the Management Plan 1.3

2. Site Overview

Site Description 2.1

Reasons for Designation: Reefs (Biogenic and Bedrock) 2.2

3. Management Objectives

Conservation Objectives 3.1

Sustainable Economic Development Objectives 3.2

4. Activities and Management Measures

Management of Fishing Activities 4.1 Benthic Dredging 4.1.1 Benthic Trawling 4.1.2 Creel Fishing 4.1.3 Whelk Fishing 4.1.4 Shellfish Diving 4.1.5

Management of Gathering and Harvesting 4.2 Shellfish and Bait Collection 4.2.1

Management of Aquaculture Activities 4.3 Finfish Farming 4.3.1 Shellfish Farming 4.3.2

LOCH CRERAN Management of Recreation and Tourism Activities 4.4 B oat Moorings 4.4.1 Anchoring 4.4.2 Scuba Diving 4.4.3 Charter Boat Operations 4.4.4

Management of Effluent Discharges/Dumping 4.5 CONTENTS Trade Effluent 4.5.1 Sewage Effluent 4.5.2 Marine Littering and Dumping 4.5.3

Management of Shipping and Boat Maintenance 4.6 Commercial Marine Traffic 4.6.1 Boat Hull Maintenance and Antifoulant Use 4.6.2

Management of Coastal Development/Land-Use 4.7 Coastal Development 4.7.1 Agriculture 4.7.2 Forestry 4.7.3

Management of Scientific Research 4.8 Scientific Research 4.8.1

5. Implementation

Implementation of the Management Plan 5.1

Implementation Phase Management Actions 5.2

6. Monitoring

Site Condition Monitoring 6.1

Compliance Monitoring 6.2

Review of Existing Consents 6.3

Argyll Marine Special Areas of Conservation EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Argyll Marine Special Areas of Conservation EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Legislative Background Under the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora), Loch Creran has been designated as a marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and has been adopted by the European Commission as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) for its unique assemblage of reefs, both bedrock reefs and biogenic reefs (reefs produced by living organisms) which have been constructed by the serpulid tube worm Serpula vermicularis and the horse mussel Modiolus modiolus. In the marine environment, individuals of Serpula vermicularis are common but in a reef form they are exceptionally rare, occurring in only two other locations in Europe. The Loch Creran reefs are currently the most extensive and the best examples of serpulid reef habitat. Horse mussel beds are relatively common in Scottish west coast waters but are rare in a European context. These biogenic reefs provide significant habitat for a great diversity of marine organisms. However, they are slow growing and extremely susceptible to physical damage. The small amount of bedrock reef in Loch Creran provides substrate for a diversity of sessile organisms.

Management Forum and Plan The Loch Creran Marine SAC Management Plan represents a progressive working agreement between stakeholders with interests in the present and future management of the loch. Formulation of this management plan has been accomplished through the Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum. The Forum was established in 2003 to provide a community stakeholder-led approach to developing sustainable, realistic and achievable long-term site management for Loch Creran and consists of representatives of competent and relevant authorities, communities around the site, and those working in fishing, aquaculture, recreation, tourism and other marine related industry. The management plan is a tool that competent and relevant statutory authorities can use to help ensure that they are fulfilling the requirements set down by the Habitats Directive when making future development decisions, whilst taking into account the multiple social and economic dependencies of the area. It is also a reference for those wishing to develop or use the area, to determine if their proposed activities are compatible with the requirements of the Habitats Directive.

Social and Economic Importance of Firth of Lorn Loch Creran is commercially and recreationally significant, supporting numerous activities of social, economic and environmental importance to the surrounding rural communities. Local industry and businesses include finfish and shellfish aquaculture, static and mobile gear fishing, fish farm cage construction, boat storage, boat mooring facilities, sea freight, fish processing and the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary. Recreational pursuits encompass sailing, sea kayaking, wildlife watching and scuba diving. Of this large diversity of activities, many have little impact on the conservation interests of the site. However, some have the potential to impact significantly on the serpulid reef and horse mussel beds.

Activity Management The Forum has reviewed activities occurring within the site and management actions have been developed in an attempt to mitigate damage to the Loch Creran reefs. Current legislative procedures for regulating each activity are outlined and suggestions are provided, based on the existing legal framework, as to the future management of each activity within the site.

LOCH CRERAN Fishing

Due to the fragility of the serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds, all fishing methods have the potential to cause serious physical damage. Therefore, the Forum developed a zoning plan for the loch that restricts fishing within areas where serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds are located. The zoning plan takes account of the local economic importance of fishing activities and no-fishing areas have been identified on the basis of various depth contours, allowing continued fishing opportunities in large areas of the loch.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Although some Forum members believed that the zoning plan would not afford the necessary protection to the conservation interests of the site, in 2006, the Scottish Executive took the decision to zone Loch Creran to prevent all types of fishing in areas of serpulid reef and horse mussel bed and to close the loch completely to scallop dredging. As horse mussel beds are slow growing and vulnerable to over-fishing by commercial divers, the Forum recommends that harvesting from the horse mussel bed is prohibited.

Aquaculture The potential impact of finfish aquaculture on serpulid reefs has been recognised and mitigation efforts have already been adopted by moving salmon cages into deeper water away from serpulid reef areas. Future development of finfish and shellfish aquaculture will be assessed by the relevant regulatory authorities with due consideration of Loch Creran's conservation interests.

Mooring and Anchoring Mooring and anchor placement for recreational and commercial use has the potential to cause significant physical damage to the conservation interests of the site. The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that future mooring placement be preceded by diver survey to check the area is clear of serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds before moorings are dropped. The dive survey should follow the methodology in the Loch Creran Marine SAC: Private and Commercial Moorings Pack.

To mitigate potential damage from anchors, preferred anchorage areas have been identified around the loch and are shown within the zoning plan for the site. Loch users will be encouraged to use these sites and will be made aware of the SAC designation through educational and interpretive materials.

Coastal Development Future coastal land use or marine development related plans or projects would be subject to the Habitats Regulations. If a development is proposed which is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site and is likely to have a significant effect on the conservation interests, the relevant or competent authority must undertake an appropriate assessment. The necessary consents will only be granted if it can be shown that there will be no impact on the conservation interests of the site. The appropriate assessment procedure will also apply to potentially impacting developments in other sectors.

Argyll Marine Special Areas of Conservation EXECUTIVE SUMMARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Monitoring Loch Creran Although monitoring is not a requirement of the Habitats Directive, surveillance and reporting on site status to the European Commission every six years is necessary. In order to meet this reporting requirement, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) will monitor all marine SACs once every six years. SNH have agreed to consult with the Forum before any monitoring takes place to identify areas that may be sensitive to impact or in need of specific monitoring.

Future Management Plan Development and Implementation The Forum will continue to meet annually, or when necessary, to review and update the plan to reflect changing environmental and economic circumstances. Argyll and Bute Council will coordinate the implementation of the management actions and the plan will be updated to detail implementation progress.

LOCH CRERAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Argyll Marine Special Areas of Conservation INTRODUCTION 1 1 INTRODUCTION Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Habitats Directive The Habitats Directive

Under the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora), the Firth of Lorn has been designated as a marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and has been adopted by the European Commission as a Site of Community Importance (SCI). The Firth of Lorn is also part of a European-wide network of sites known as Natura 2000.

Natura 2000 is the collective title for Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the Birds Directive (Council

Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds). These designations are in place to conserve 1.1 important natural habitats and species of wildlife that are rare, endangered or vulnerable in the European Community.

The implementation of the Habitats Directive is transposed into domestic legislation by the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended by the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2004), referred to as the Habitats Regulations. Responsibility is placed on the government to protect the integrity of SACs and ensure that existing site use and all future development is compliant with the requirements of the Habitats Directive.

FIRTH OF LORN 1.2 Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation plan. management ofthesiteandtoagreeactionsthatformbasisthis (Appendix I).IthasbeentheresponsibilityofForumtomeetanddiscussissuesrelating and competentstatutoryauthorities,representativesoflocalcommunitiesbusinesses The ArgyllMarineSACManagementForumwasestablishedinFebruary2003andincludesrelevant competent authoritieswhohavepowersorfunctionsdirectlyrelatedtothemarineenvironment. or personholdingapublicofficethatexercisesstatutorypowers.Relevantauthoritiesarethose authority describesanyMinister,governmentdepartment,publicorstatutoryundertaker,body compliance withtheHabitatsDirectiveandmanageSACsforfuture.Thetermcompetent marine environment(competentandrelevantauthorities)toexercisethosefunctionssoassecure The HabitatsRegulationsrequirestatutoryauthoritiesororganisationswithfunctionsrelevanttothe 1.2 Argyll Marine Forum SAC Management INTRODUCTION Aims of the Management Plan

1.3 Aims of the Management Plan

The management plan is a tool that the competent and relevant statutory authorities can use to help ensure that they are fulfilling the requirements set down by the Habitats Directive when making future development decisions, whilst taking into account the multiple social and economic dependencies of the area. It is also a reference for those wishing to develop or use the area, to determine if their proposed activities are compatible with the requirements of the Habitats Directive.

The management plan considers and assesses each activity that has the potential to have an impact on

the conservation interests of the site. It identifies current legislative policy relating to the regulation 1.3 of each activity and provides suggestions, based on the existing legal framework, as to the future management of each activity within the site.

The Habitats Directive has a number of major requirements relating to the management of marine SACs and this plan has been developed to help ensure that these are achieved:

Management should enable the natural habitat types and the species concerned to be maintained or, where appropriate, restored to favourable conservation status.

Steps must be taken to avoid deterioration of the habitats and disturbance of species for which the site has been designated.

A report should be submitted to the European Commission Environment Directorate General every 6 years, which includes an evaluation of the effectiveness of management measures and also the results of the surveillance of the conservation status of the natural habitats and species.

Activities, plans or projects that are not connected to nature conservation management and likely to have a significant effect upon the qualifying features of the site, must be subject to an appropriate assessment. Where it cannot be ascertained that a development will not have an adverse effect on the conservation interests of the site, it should only be permitted if there is no alternative solution and there are imperative reasons of over-riding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature.

The plan has a holistic view on sustainable development, considering the needs of users of the marine environment, including local industries and communities, and should make for more informed decision-making. The process by which it has been derived has built partnerships and opened lines of communication between those who have a direct interest in the site.

The plan has been developed in such a way that it is a 'living document' that can be adapted to reflect changing environmental and economic circumstances.

FIRTH OF LORN 1 INTRODUCTION Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation SITE OVERVIEW 2 2 SITE OVERVIEW Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation SITE OVERVIEW

2.1 Site Description Site Description Situated at the southern end of the Loch Linnhe, Loch Creran is a typical fjordic sea loch with a constricted opening into the Lynn of Lorn at Eriska. The loch has a mean depth of 13.4 m and a low water area of 12.26 km2. Spring tidal currents in excess of 4 knots occur over a shallow rocky sill at the loch entrance. Loch Creran is divided into a large lower basin and a small upper basin, separated by silled narrows at Creagan. The lower basin is further divided into three basins of 14 m, 27 m and 49 m maximum depths. The loch is a typically well-mixed system although temperature and salinity gradients are common, particularly during periods of high rainfall or snowmelt. Salinities in the lower basin of the

loch are generally in the range of 30-33‰ and temperatures range from a low of around 6°C to a high 2.1 of 13-15°C. Loch Creran is very sheltered from wave action, which is reflected in the mud and fine sand that characterise the bottom sediments.

The Loch Creran Marine SAC (Figure 2.1) is a site of international conservation importance for its biogenic reefs. The site also contains several distinct outcrops of bedrock reef and this habitat has also been included as one of the sites conservation interests.

Figure 2.1

LOCH CRERAN 2.2 Reasons for Designation Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation assemblages andaddadditional habitatcomplexitytothelochecosystem. Creagan Narrowsbutalsoin somelocationsinthelowerbasin.Thesesupportfurther species-rich Localised areasofbedrockreefoccurwithintheloch,most notablyintheareatoeastof Bedrock reefs Scotland's marinebiodiversity. context. Theyareconsideredtobehabitatsofhighconservation valueandanimportantelementof Horse musselbedsarerelativelycommoninScottishwest coastwatersbutarerareinaEuropean solitary seasquirts,sponges,bivalves,hydroids,andmanycrustaceans andechinoderms. assemblage offloraandfaunathatismorediversethan theadjacentmuddyseabed,andincludes stabilising influenceonthesediment.Thebedsarecharacterisedbyanabundantspecies-rich The horsemusselbedactsasahardsubstratefortheattachmentofsessileorganismsandhasstrong Horse musselbedsarecomposedofhorsemusselsboundtogetherwithsediments,stonesandshells. Bridge. loch. SmallerareasofhorsemusselbedoccurtothenorthandwestEriskaCreagan approximately 750mlong,issituatedtotheeastofDallachulishinshelteredupperbasin forming biogenicreefsatdepthsof7->25mbelowchartdatum.Themostextensivehorsemusselbed, Dense raisedconglomerationsofthehorsemussel Horse musselbeds/reefs on asinglereef,comprisingover70differentspecies. or amongsttheunusuallydenseaggregationsof species-rich assemblageincludinghydroids,seasquirts,worms,spongesandcrustaceans,whichliveon The intricatestructuresoftheserpulidreefsincreasehabitatcomplexityandarecolonisedbya diameter. However,adjacentreefsmaycombinetoformstructuresup3min sublittoral fringeoftheloch.IndividualreefsinLochCrerancanreachupto75cmheightand1m larger reefsoccurindepthsof6-10mbelowchartdatumandformanarrowbandaroundmuchthe lower limitsofthedepthrangearecharacterisedbysmallandrelativelysparsereefs.Highdensities The LochCreranserpulidreefsoccuronveryshelteredplainsofmuddyandfinesand.upper Bay ofNaples,Italy,althoughitislikelythatthesereefsareformedbyadifferentspecies. evidence suggeststhattheextentofthesereefsmaybeincreasing.Serpulidarealsofoundin have beenreportedinGalway,Ireland,althoughtheirdevelopmentislimited.However,recent Loch CreranistheonlyknownsiteinUKtocontainliving (Figure 2.2.).Thisspecieshasaworldwidedistributionbutthedevelopmentofreefsisextremelyrare: vermicularis, whichoccuratdepthsof1-13mbelowchartdatumaroundtheperipheryloch Loch Creranisparticularlynotableforbiogenicreefsmadebythecalcareous-tubefanworm Serpulid reefs 2.2 Reasons forDesignation: Reefs (Biogenicand S. vermicularis.Over2,500animalshavebeencounted Modiolus modiolus S. vermicularis also occurinLochCreran, reefs. Bedrock) S. vermicularis Serpula reefs SITE OVERVIEW Reasons for Designation

Location of the Features of Conservation Interest 2.2

Horse Mussel Bed Serpulid Reefs Bedrock Reefs

Figure 2.2

LOCH CRERAN 2 SITE OVERVIEW Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES 3 3 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Conservation Objectives Conservation 3.1 Conservation Objectives

Qualifying Interest - Reefs (Biogenic and Bedrock) Under Regulation 33(2) of the Habitats Regulations, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has a responsibility to develop conservation objectives and provide information on the potential impact of activities on the qualifying interests* for each marine SAC. Advice on the potential impact of activities that occur within the site is provided to assist and focus the competent and relevant authorities in their consideration of the management of these activities. The advice includes operations that may not be occurring at present

within the Loch Creran marine SAC and is included as Appendix IIB. 3.1

The conservation objectives for the Loch Creran SAC are as follows: To avoid deterioration of the qualifying interest (biogenic and bedrock reefs) therefore ensuring that the integrity of the site is maintained and the site makes an appropriate contribution to achieving favourable conservation status for each of the qualifying interests.

To ensure for the qualifying interests that the following are maintained in the long term:

Extent of the habitat on site Distribution of the habitat within site Structure and function of the habitat Processes supporting the habitat Distribution of typical species of the habitat Viability of typical species as components of the habitat No significant disturbance of typical species of the habitat

* For the purposes of this document, the term 'qualifying interests' is used interchangeably with 'conservation interests' throughout.

Non-qualifying Interest Otter (Lutra lutra) and common seal (Phoca vitulina) are listed as non-qualifying Habitats Directive Annex II species for Loch Creran. As a non-qualifying interest, consideration under the appropriate assessment procedure (Appendix III) is not required. However, SNH recommend that these species should be given consideration by the relevant and competent authorities when assessing development proposals.

Common Seals

LOCH CRERAN 3.1 Conservation Objectives Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Leatherback Turtle- Hawksbill Turtle- Kemp Green Turtle-Cheloniamydas Loggerhead Turtle-Carettacaretta European SeaSturgeon-Acipensersturio Otter - Cetacea (allspecies) species inneedofstrictprotection: The followingmarinespecies,whicharepresentinUKwaters,listedwithintheHabitatsDirectiveas European ProtectedSpecies(EPS)aretobeprotectedwherevertheyoccur. Annex IVoftheHabitatsDirectivelistsanumbermarinespeciesinneedstrictprotection.These European ProtectedSpecies 's RidleyTurtle-Lepidochelyskempii Lutra lutra Eretmochelys imbricata Dermochelys coriacea Sustainable Economic Development Objectives

MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

3.2 Sustainable Economic Development Objectives

The Habitats Directive makes clear provision for the economic, social and cultural needs of local people when considering management measures for marine SACs.

Many in the local community are dependent on undertaking activities within the Loch Creran marine SAC to make a living and this plan seeks to develop management actions which balance social and economic needs with the requirement to conserve the area's unique environmental resources.

The Loch Creran marine SAC designation does not preclude future development within the area, as 3.2 long as the proposed developments do not impact significantly upon the conservation interests of the site. Indeed, site designation should contribute socially and economically to the local community. There should be opportunities to promote and develop local businesses that may benefit from the SAC designation, for example, in marine SAC produce marketing and tourism. Overall, there should be a presumption that any resource use is done in a way that is sustainable and compatible with the requirements of the Habitats Directive.

LOCH CRERAN 3 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES MANAGEMENTACTIVITIES AND 4

This section of the plan provides an overview of all the activities occurring within the SAC at present.

For each activity, the current level is determined, details of the existing regulatory framework provided, the potential impacts assessed, and based on these considerations, management actions are suggested in order to guide the future development of that activity within the SAC.

This section provides a quick reference tool for regulators and developers to ensure that site use is sustainable and activities are compatible with the requirements of the Habitats Directive. 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Management of Fishing Activities

4.1 Management of Fishing Activities

The sea fishing industry is an important component of the rural economy of Argyll. The fisheries sector has a long tradition and has established the area as an important national supplier of high quality seafood.

Within Argyll, the fishing fleet is largely inshore and local fishermen are split into two distinct groups: those operating mobile gear and those operating static gear. Mobile gear fisheries include trawling for prawns (Nephrops norvegicus) and dredging for King scallops (Pecten maximus) and Queen scallops

(Aequipecten opercularis). Static gear fisheries involve setting creels, pots or nets for a variety of 4.1 shellfish species. Initially a relatively small sector, the static gear fleet has grown significantly as new European markets have opened up for live prawns, crabs and other species. In the area north of Crinan, which includes Loch Creran, those fishing static gear are economically the most significant. A successful commercial diving industry for a variety of shellfish species also takes place throughout the area.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.1.1 Benthic Dredging Benthic Dredging

Description of Activity In the past Loch Creran provided reasonable grounds for the dredging of King (Pecten maximus) and Queen (Aequipecten opercularis) scallops. However, in recent times stocks have been depleted and fishermen report that the scallop fishery within the loch is not viable. At the present time, scallop dredging is limited to occasional prospecting during poor weather conditions, as the loch is a sheltered alternative to fishing Loch Linnhe and other more exposed areas. 4.1.1

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council - Protective Services Shellfish toxin sample collection.

Food Standards Agency Responsible for decisions relating to closures of scallop grounds when shellfish toxin levels exceed internationally recognised limits.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Potential Impacts Serpulid reef distribution within Loch Creran is generally between the depths of 6-13 m and rarely more than 15 m below chart datum. An extensive area of horse mussel bed is located in the upper basin and 3 smaller areas of horse mussel bed occur to the north and west of Eriska and west of the Creagan Bridge. These beds can reach depths in excess of 25 m. Therefore, potential exists for fishing related activities to come into direct contact with these interests. Bedrock reef outcrops in mobile gear fishing areas are generally avoided to prevent damage to fishing gear.

Serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds are fragile habitats, highly sensitive to physical disturbance, and can be damaged by mobile fishing gear. There is potential for dredge gear to come into direct contact with the conservation interests while gear is manoeuvred in the restricted area of the loch. Additionally, dredge-disturbed sediments could smother serpulid reefs, horse mussel beds and their associated fauna and flora. Nomadic fishermen visiting the area, who are unaware of the existence of the serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds, may increase the potential for damage.

LOCH CRERAN 4.1.1 Benthic Dredging Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation to prohibitscallopdredgingwithintheloch. 2007, TheInshoreFishing(ProhibitedMethodsofFishing)(LochCreran)Order2007cameintoforce In 2006,theScottishExecutivetookdecisiontocloseLochCreranscallopdredging.March However, theForumproposedfollowingmanagementmeasures: management plandraftsandconservationadvicefromSNH. were requiredtomakeadecisiontakingaccountofdiscussionsatForummeetings,commentson Consequently, theScottishExecutive,competentauthoritychargedwithregulatinginshorefisheries, interests ofthesite. Forum membersbelievedthatthezoningplanwouldaffordnecessaryprotectiontoconservation Although acceptedbythemajorityofForum,includingallfishingindustryrepresentatives,not of fishingactivitiesandno-fishingareaswereidentifiedonthebasisvariousdepthcontours. reefs andhorsemusselbedsarelocated.Thezoningplantookaccountofthelocaleconomicimportance In 2004,theForumdevelopedazoningplanforlochtorestrictfishingwithinareaswhereserpulid Management Action vessel lists. Protection Agency(SFPA)Officers,theScottishInshoreFisheriesAdvisoryGroup(SIFAG)orvia through theSecretariesofFishermen Fishermen shouldbeinformedoftheSACdesignationandanymanagementactionsforsite statutory. The ForumrecommendedthatanymeasuresintroducedbytheScottishExecutiveshouldbe ' s Associations,throughlocalScottishFisheries ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.1.2 Benthic Trawling Benthic Trawling Description of Activity Benthic trawling in Loch Creran is for prawns (Nephrops norvegicus) and takes place on muddy sediment in deeper parts of the loch. At present, there is only one prawn trawler who regularly works within the Loch Creran marine SAC area.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities 4.1.2

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Potential Impacts Serpulid reef distribution within Loch Creran is generally between the depths of 6-13 m and rarely more than 15 m below chart datum. An extensive area of horse mussel bed is located in the upper basin and 3 smaller areas of horse mussel bed occur to the north and west of Eriska and west of the Creagan Bridge. These beds can reach depths in excess of 25 m. Therefore, potential exists for fishing related activities to come into direct contact with these conservation interests. Bedrock reef outcrops in mobile gear fishing areas are generally avoided to prevent damage to fishing gear.

Serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds are fragile habitats, highly sensitive to physical disturbance, and can be damaged by mobile fishing gear. There is potential for trawl gear to come into direct contact with the conservation interests while gear is manoeuvred in the restricted area of the loch. Additionally, sediments disturbed by trawling in close proximity could smother serpulid reefs, horse mussel beds and their associated fauna and flora. Nomadic fishermen visiting the area, who are unaware of the existence of the serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds, may increase the potential for damage.

Management Action In 2004, the Forum developed a zoning plan for the loch to restrict fishing within areas where serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds are located. The zoning plan took account of the local economic importance of fishing activities and no-fishing areas were identified on the basis of various depth contours.

Although accepted by the majority of the Forum, including all fishing industry representatives, not all Forum members believed that the zoning plan would afford the necessary protection to the conservation interests of the site.

Consequently, the Scottish Executive, the competent authority charged with regulating inshore fisheries, were required to make a decision taking account of discussions at Forum meetings, comments on management plan drafts and conservation advice from SNH. (continued overleaf)

LOCH CRERAN 4.1.2 Benthic Trawling Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Additional prohibitions: designated exclusionzones1,2and3. has beendevelopedtomanagefishingwithinLochCreran.Fishingisonlypermittedoutwiththe A statutoryzoningplan(AppendixIV),adaptedfromtheoriginallyproposedbyForum, (Loch Creran)Order2007. areas ofserpulidreefandhorsemusselbedunderTheInshoreFishing(ProhibitedMethodsFishing) The ScottishExecutivetookthedecisiontoregulatefishingwithinLochCreranpreventdamage However, theForumproposedfollowingmanagementmeasures: Fishing bymeansofatrawlinupperLochCreranisprohibited. Trawlers >10minoveralllengthareprohibitedfromfishingwithinLochCreran. vessel lists. Protection Agency(SFPA)Officers,theScottishInshoreFisheriesAdvisoryGroup(SIFAG)orvia through theSecretariesofFishermen Fishermen shouldbeinformedoftheSACdesignationandanymanagementactionsforsite statutory. The ForumrecommendedthatanymeasuresintroducedbytheScottishExecutiveshouldbe ' s Associations,throughlocalScottishFisheries ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.1.3 Creel Fishing

Description of Activity Creel Fishing Creel fishing for prawns (Nephrops norvegicus) and velvet swimming crab (Necora puber) occurs within Loch Creran. At present, creeling for velvet swimming crab is mostly concentrated between the loch entrance and South Shian, and in the upper basin beyond the Creagan Narrows. However, there is potential for velvet crabs to be targeted in and around the serpulid reefs. Creeling for prawns is most common in deeper water on muddy substrate. 4.1.3

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Serpulid reefs are a fragile habitat, highly sensitive to physical disturbance and therefore can be damaged through creel fishing activities. Creels can weigh in excess of 20 kg and when dropped in fleets in areas of serpulid reef, there is a threat of creels landing on the reefs and causing serious damage. Furthermore, during gear retrieval creels can be dragged along the seabed, potentially causing impacts to a larger area. Horse mussel beds and bedrock reefs are more robust to this type of fishing.

LOCH CRERAN 4.1.3 Creel Fishing Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation designated exclusionzones1,2and3,withinthepermittedcreelingareainupperloch. has beendevelopedtomanagefishingwithinLochCreran.Creelisonlypermittedoutwiththe A statutoryzoningplan(AppendixIV),adaptedfromtheoriginallyproposedbyForum, (Loch Creran)Order2007. areas ofserpulidreefandhorsemusselbedunderTheInshoreFishing(ProhibitedMethodsFishing) The ScottishExecutivetookthedecisiontoregulatefishingwithinLochCreranpreventdamage However, theForumproposedfollowingmanagementmeasures: vessel lists. Protection Agency(SFPA)Officers,theScottishInshoreFisheriesAdvisoryGroup(SIFAG)orvia through theSecretariesofFishermen Fishermen shouldbeinformedoftheSACdesignationandanymanagementactionsforsite statutory. The ForumrecommendedthatanymeasuresintroducedbytheScottishExecutiveshouldbe ' s Associations,throughlocalScottishFisheries ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.1.4 Whelk Fishing

Description of Activity Whelk Fishing Although not a common fishery in the area, whelk (Buccinus undatum) fishing has occurred in Loch Creran in the past. On account of economic viabilities, whelk fishing activities were discontinued. However, it has been included in this plan due to the possibility that this fishery may re-open in the future. 4.1.4 Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds are fragile habitats, highly sensitive to physical disturbance and therefore can be damaged when whelk fishing gear is dropped on the seabed. The equipment used is very heavy, consisting of a series of concrete weighted buckets distributed along lengths of rope. A leaded sinking line runs from the equipment on the seabed to a marker float so that excess line does not float on the surface. When dropped, the pots have the potential to cause extensive damage to the biogenic reefs. When retrieved, pots may be dragged along the seabed potentially causing impacts to a larger area. In addition, the leaded lines can also become tangled around the serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds causing further impact.

LOCH CRERAN 4.1.4 Whelk Fishing Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation designated exclusionzones1,2and3,withinthepermittedcreelingareainupperloch. has beendevelopedtomanagefishingwithinLochCreran.Whelkisonlypermittedoutwiththe A statutoryzoningplan(AppendixIV),adaptedfromtheoriginallyproposedbyForum, (Loch Creran)Order2007. areas ofserpulidreefandhorsemusselbedunderTheInshoreFishing(ProhibitedMethodsFishing) The ScottishExecutivetookthedecisiontoregulatefishingwithinLochCreranpreventdamage However, theForumproposedfollowingmanagementmeasures: management plandraftsandconservationadvicefromSNH. were requiredtomakeadecisiontakingaccountofdiscussionsatForummeetings,commentson Consequently, theScottishExecutive,competentauthoritychargedwithregulatinginshorefisheries, vessel lists. Protection Agency(SFPA)Officers,theScottishInshoreFisheriesAdvisoryGroup(SIFAG)orvia through theSecretariesofFishermen Fishermen shouldbeinformedoftheSACdesignationandanymanagementactionsforsite statutory. The ForumrecommendedthatanymeasuresintroducedbytheScottishExecutiveshouldbe ' s Associations,throughlocalScottishFisheries ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.1.5 Shellfish Diving Shellfish Diving Description of Activity Loch Creran currently supports a small number of shellfish divers targeting palourde (Tapes decussatus), horse mussel (Modiolus modiolus), King scallop (Pecten maximus) and Queen scallop (Aequipecten opercularis). Although commercial divers are not thought to be working within serpulid reef areas, they do collect shellfish from the horse mussel beds in the loch. 4.1.5 Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council - Protective Services Shellfish toxin sample collection.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Potential Impacts Although diving is generally recognised as an environmentally sound and selective way of fishing, intensive gathering of shellfish may cause minor, localised damage to associated communities and depletion of the target species population. Removal of horse mussels and other shellfish from horse mussel beds has a direct impact on this habitat as a result of the physical damage that occurs when shellfish are levered and dislodged. Additionally, given the slow growth rate of the horse mussel, removal of mussels is unlikely to be sustainable.

Management Action The Forum recommends that statutory measures should be introduced to prohibit harvesting from horse mussel beds in Loch Creran.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management of Gathering and Harvesting Management of Gathering

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.2 Management of Gathering and Harvesting

Bait collected around the Scottish shoreline includes ragworms, lugworms and shore crabs. A wide range of species, predominantly molluscs, are collected for food and occasionally bait, including winkles (Littorina sp.), mussels (Mytilus edulis), cockles (Cerastoderma edule) razor shells (Ensis spp.) and carpet shells (e.g. Venus sp.).

Excavations of prehistoric shellfish middens suggest winkles were an important source of food as long ago as 7500 BC in Scotland. Nowadays, winkles are still collected in vast quantities but are mostly exported to a Continental market. 4.2

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Shellfish and Bait Collection

4.2.1 Shellfish and Bait Collection

Description of Activity Native mussels (Mytilus edulis) and native oysters (Ostrea edulis) are property of the Crown and their collection from the wild is not permitted without a licence from The Crown Estate. There are currently no Crown Estate licences for the commercial collection of native mussels or oysters within the SAC. Intensive winkle (Littorina sp.) collection takes place on accessible foreshore around Loch Creran.

Commercial bait collection is not thought to take place within the site at present. Permission from the 4.2.1 landowner is required before undertaking any commercial bait collection for non-'sea fish' classified species e.g. bait worms. However, there is a public right to collect crabs for bait as these are classified as 'sea fish'.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Shellfish toxin and water quality sample collection. Issue Argyll and Bute Council - Protective Services shellfish licences with the Food Standards Agency.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for inshore fisheries management, policy and Department - Sea Fisheries Division regulation.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

The Crown Estate Licence for the commercial collection of intertidal native mussels and oysters.

Potential Impacts No deterioration of subtidal biogenic and bedrock reef habitats occurs in relation to this activity.

Management Action No action is necessary for this activity in relation to the conservation interests of the site.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT of Aquaculture Activities Management MEASURES

4.3 Management of Aquaculture Activities

The finfish farming industry in Argyll and Bute is based principally on salmon and trout, although increasingly, the area is becoming an important location for the commercial development of other farmed species such as halibut, cod and turbot. In terms of economic importance, salmon cultivation is the predominant enterprise.

Argyll and Bute is also a nationally important area for shellfish production. The common species under cultivation are the mussel (Mytilus edulis), Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas), King scallop (Pecten maximus) and Queen scallop (Aequipecten opercularis). Shellfish production is an important component 4.3 of the Argyll economy.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.3.1 Finfish Farming Finfish Farming Description of Activity Location of Salmon Leases Within Loch Creran, there is currently one salmon farm owned and managed by Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. hold seabed leases and discharge consents N A for two sites within the lower basin of R 4.3.1 E R the loch, Creran A and Creran B. C Creran A These sites are used in rotation, L O C H Creran B allowing fallowing periods at each site. Salmon Pumpashore Facility Fish are harvested from the farm to a processing plant located on the loch shore. Processing plant activities are considered in 4.5.1.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Planning Services: provide recommendation on development consent* to The Crown Estate.

Argyll Fisheries Trust Non-statutory consultee on marine aquaculture lease renewal, lease amendments, new sites and EIAs through the Rivers and Fisheries Trusts Scotland. Partner to the Area Management Agreement (AMA) process.

District Salmon Fisheries Board Statutory consultee on marine aquaculture lease renewal, lease amendments, new sites and EIAs. Area Management Agreement partner.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency Responsibility for preventing hazards to navigation and ensuring sea safety compliance for aquaculture floating facilities and vessels. Consulted at public consultation stage on Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent.

Northern Lighthouse Board Responsibility for preventing hazards to navigation. Consulted at public consultation stage on Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Regulate discharges through the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 by issuing CAR authorisations and monitor authorised discharges. Statutory consultee for seabed lease.

Scottish Executive Statutory consultee on marine aquaculture applications.

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Responsibility to prevent hazards to navigation. Issue Coast Learning Department - Transport Division Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent.

LOCH CRERAN 4.3.1 Finfish Farming Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation be transferredtothelocalplanningauthoritywhenlegislationisimplemented. the seabedleaseanddevelopmentconsent.Fullstatutoryresponsibilityforgrantingconsentisto rent finfishfarmingactivities. reefs isunlikely.Damagetothehorsemusselbedsofno concernastheyarenotsituatednearcur- located inwaterdeeperthan15mbelowchartdatum,therefore, directphysicalimpacttotheserpulid to theconservationinterestsofloch.Thelocation thefishfarmisacceptable;bothsitesare the HabitatsRegulations.Theassessmenthasdeterminedthat thecurrentsitesdonotposeanythreat SEPA haveundertakenanappropriateassessmentoftheLoch Creranfinfishfarmsitesasrequiredby SEPA havenoconcernsrelatingtowaterqualityororganic enrichment atpresent. all aspectsoftheindustryareregulated.Finfishfarmeffluents aresubjecttoon-goingmonitoringand concerns relatetotheassimilativecapacityoflochandmaintenancewaterquality.However, At presenttherearelimitedconcernsrelatingtothefinfishfarmingindustrywithinLochCreran.These when mooringsareplacedontheseabed. because ofthephysicaldamagethatcouldbecausedtofragileserpulidreefsandhorsemusselbeds Moorings arepotentiallythemostsignificantaspectoffinfishfarmingindustryinLochCreran development theremaybeconcernsovercumulativeimpactsonwaterquality. detrimental effectonthefeaturesofconservationinterest.Furthermore,withanyfuturefishfarm Benthic organicenrichmentthroughwastefoodandfaeceswaterqualitydeteriorationmayhavea but therestrictednatureofsealochsmayexacerbatetheseeffects. the transferofdiseasesandparasitesbetweenfarmedwildsalmonids.Mostimpactsarelocalised enrichment, areductioninwaterquality,seabeddamagefrommooringplacementandimpactsthrough Finfish farmingcanhaveanumberofassociatedenvironmentaleffectssuchasbenthicorganic Potential Impacts * The CrownEstate Department -SeaFisheriesDivision Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs Department -FisheriesResearchServices Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs Competent/Relevant Authority Scottish NaturalHeritage In relationtofinfishfarmdevelopments,undertheinterimarrangementsTheCrownEstatepresentlyissueboth aquaculture applications. Comment onfishingimplicationsrelatingtomarine 2005 CARauthorisation. Water Environment(ControlledActivities)Regulations and outfalls.Fishhealthresponsibilities.Consultedon for fishfarmdevelopmentssuchasjetties,piers,slipways Issue FoodandEnvironmentProtectionAct1985licence Activities) Regulations2005CARauthorisation. consent. ConsultedonWaterEnvironment(Controlled consent andCoastProtectionAct1949Section34 Statutory consulteeonseabedlease,development Responsibilities Issue seabedleaseanddevelopmentconsent*. ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Management Action All aspects of future finfish farm developments will be subject to the Habitats Regulations. If a

development is proposed which is likely to have a significant effect on the conservation interests Finfish Farming of the site an appropriate assessment will be required (Appendix III). The necessary consents will only be granted if it can be shown that there will be no impact on the conservation interests of the site.

The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that any future finfish farming developments are not sited over biogenic reefs, as there is potential for smothering

from organic waste products. 4.3.1

The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that future placement of finfish farm moorings be preceded by a diver survey to check the area is clear of biogenic reef before moorings are dropped. This survey should follow the methodology outlined in the Loch Creran Marine SAC: Private and Commercial Moorings Pack available from the Scottish Executive, Ports and Harbours Branch www.scotland.gov.uk or from The Crown Estate www.thecrownestate.co.uk.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.3.2 Shellfish Farming Shellfish Farming

Description of Activity Location of Shellfish Leases At present there are leases for 4 Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) and 2 mussel (Mytilus edulis) farms within the marine SAC. There is

N potential for further aquaculture A

R 4.3.2 developments in the future. E R C L O C H Oysters Mussels

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Planning Services: Provide recommendation on development consent* to The Crown Estate. Protective Services: Responsible for food safety aspects of aquaculture industry. Issue shellfish licences with Food Standards Agency, collect samples to monitor for toxins and water classification.

Argyll Fisheries Trust Non-statutory consultee on marine aquaculture lease renewal, lease amendments, new sites and EIAs through the Rivers and Fisheries Trusts Scotland.

District Salmon Fisheries Board Statutory consultee on marine aquaculture lease renewal, lease amendments, new sites and EIAs.

Food Standards Agency Issue shellfish licences with Argyll and Bute Council. Determine shellfish harvesting area classification.

Northern Lighthouse Board Responsibility for preventing hazards to navigation. Consulted at public consultation stage.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Statutory consultee for seabed lease.

Scottish Executive Statutory consultee on marine aquaculture applications.

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Responsibility to prevent hazards to navigation. Issue Learning Department - Transport Division Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent.

LOCH CRERAN 4.3.2 Shellfish Farming Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action when themussellinesareanchoredtoseabed. because ofthephysicaldamagethatcouldbecausedtofragile serpulidreefsandhorsemusselbeds habitats. MooringsarepotentiallyasignificantaspectofthemusselfarmingindustryinLochCreran deterioration throughfaecesandpseudofaecesmayhaveadetrimentaleffectonthequalityofreef interests iflinesaresiteddirectlyabovereefareas.Benthicorganicenrichmentandwaterquality bedrock reefareas.However,thereisthepotentialformusselfarmingtoimpactconservation As oystersaregrowninintertidalareas,theywillnothaveadirectimpactonthesubtidalbiogenicand However, thereisregulationbySEERADtoavoidtheintroductionofdiseasedstock. regulation ofshellfishseedsupplytofarmersrelatingtheintroductionnon-nativespecies. generally unabletoreproduceundertheconditionsaffordedbywestcoast.Thereisnoformal oyster, themostcommonspeciesofoysterfarmedonwestcoastScotland,asthisis suppliers reducethispossibility.Environmentalconstraintspreventthespreadofnon-nativePacific Potential existsfortheintroductionofnon-nativespecies,althoughprocessesusedbyshellfishseed localised. organic enrichmentandseabeddamagefrommooringplacement.Theseimpactsaregenerally Shellfish farmingcanhaveanumberofassociatedenvironmentaleffectssuchasshelldebris,benthic Potential Impacts * is tobetransferredthelocalplanningauthoritywhenlegislationimplemented. both theseabedleaseanddevelopmentconsent.Fullstatutoryresponsibilityforgrantingconsent Competent/Relevant Authority The CrownEstate Department -SeaFisheriesDivision Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs Scottish NaturalHeritage Department -FisheriesResearchServices Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs In relationtoshellfishfarmdevelopments,undertheinterimarrangementsTheCrownEstatepresentlyissue of thesite. will onlybegrantedifitcan shownthattherewillbenoimpactontheconservationinterests of thesiteanappropriateassessment willberequired(AppendixIII).Thenecessaryconsents development isproposedwhichlikelytohaveasignificant effectontheconservationinterests All aspectsoffutureshellfishfarmdevelopmentswillbesubject totheHabitatsRegulations.Ifa Loch Creran. At presenttheForumhavenoconcernsrelatingtocurrent shellfishfarmdevelopmentswithin Responsibilities Grant seabedleaseanddevelopmentconsent*. aquaculture applications. Comment onfishingimplicationsrelatingtomarine consent. consent, andCoastProtectionAct1949Section34 Statutory consulteeonseabedlease,development analyses todetermineshellfishwaterclassification. slipways andoutfalls.Shellfishtoxinwatersample licence forfishfarmdevelopmentssuchasjetties,piers, Issue FoodandEnvironmentProtectionAct1985 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that any future mussel farming developments are not sited over biogenic reefs, as there is potential for smothering

from shells and organic waste products below shellfish lines. Shellfish Farming

The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that placement of future mussel farming moorings/anchors be preceded by a diver survey to check the area is clear of biogenic reef before they are dropped. This survey should follow the methodology outlined in the Loch Creran Marine SAC: Private and Commercial Moorings Pack available from the Scottish Executive, Ports and Harbours Branch www.scotland.gov.uk or from The Crown Estate

www.thecrownestate.co.uk. 4.3.2

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management of Recreation and Tourism Activities

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.4 Management of Recreation and Tourism Activities

Marine tourism is a developing sector in Argyll. The dramatic scenery of the coast and islands combined with the rich Celtic heritage and diverse wildlife attract visitors from around the world.

Scuba diving, sea angling, wildlife watching and visiting remote uninhabited islands are popular activities for visitors to Argyll. As a result there are numerous charter boat excursions available, offering the chance to see, first hand, the nature of Argyll's marine environment. The west coast of Scotland is also renowned as a prime destination for sailing, with tranquil surroundings and a myriad of secluded

anchorages. 4.4

Marine tourism has important economic implications for the area. A recent overview of the industry estimates that throughout Argyll and the Islands, the marine leisure tourism sector accounts for 600 direct full time equivalent jobs (Stewart Miller Associates in association with John Peden Associates, 2004). There are also significant benefits within the supporting sectors e.g. hotels, guesthouses, B&B's, restaurants, marinas, boatyards and other infrastructure.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.4.1 Boat Moorings Boat Moorings Description of Activity Location of Moorings The sheltered and picturesque nature of Loch Creran and its proximity to the excellent sailing opportunities that the west coast offers makes it an ideal location for N South Shian Moorings A Association 4.4.1 the mooring of both recreational R E Yeoman Morvern yachts and commercial boats. A R C Creran Moorings number of boat moorings are L O C H Marine Resource Centre currently located in various sites Creagan Inn Visitor within the loch, including areas Moorings where serpulid reefs are present.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Consulted on mooring applications at public Maritime and Coastguard Agency consultation stage.

Consulted on mooring applications at public Northern Lighthouse Board consultation stage.

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Responsibility to prevent hazards to navigation. Issue Learning Department - Transport Division Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent for moorings.

Statutory consultee on seabed lease and Coast Scottish Natural Heritage Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consent.

Issue seabed lease for moorings and monitor leased The Crown Estate moorings.

Potential Impacts

The placement of new moorings within areas of serpulid reef or horse mussel bed could cause significant physical damage to these habitats.

Where moorings are currently located in areas of serpulid reef or horse mussel bed, damage from mooring placement may have already occurred. Removal of these moorings has the potential to cause serious damage to surrounding reefs as they drag and swing whilst being lifted clear of the sea bed. Furthermore, mooring blocks that have been in place for some time are often colonised by clumps of serpulid worms. Relocation of these moorings is therefore not advisable.

LOCH CRERAN 4.4.1 Boat Moorings Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action of thesite. will onlybegrantedifitcanshownthattherenoimpactontheconservationinterests of thesiteanappropriateassessmentwillberequired(AppendixIII).Thenecessaryconsents development isproposedwhichlikelytohaveasignificanteffectontheconservationinterests All aspectsoffuturemooringdevelopmentswillbesubjecttotheHabitatsRegulations.Ifa and HarboursBranch Marine SAC:PrivateandCommercialMooringsPack moorings aredropped.Thissurveyshouldfollowthemethodologyoutlinedin placement beprecededbyadiversurveytochecktheareaisclearofbiogenicreefbefore The Forumrecommendsthatrelevant/competentauthoritiesensurefuturemooring removal couldcausedamagetoareasofbiogenicreef. The Forumrecommendsthatexistingmooringsbeleftinplacewherethereareconcerns www.scotland.gov.uk or fromTheCrownEstatewww.thecrownestate.co.uk. available fromtheScottishExecutive,Ports Loch Creran ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.4.2 Anchoring

Description of Activity Location of Anchorages The sheltered and picturesque nature Anchoring of Loch Creran makes it a good location for the anchoring of recreational yachts and a small number of visiting dive boats. It is N A estimated that from May to R Anchorages currently 4.4.2 E publicised through September there are approximately R Admiralty and Sailing C Guides L O C H an average of two boat nights per Anchorages to be used to minimise reef week anchoring in South Shian Bay damage and potentially another two visiting boats anchoring at other locations within the loch every night.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities Anchoring is not regulated by any relevant or competent authority and is regarded as a public right associated with the public right of navigation. However, the UK Hydrographic Office has taken the view that mariners have a right to anchor in safe areas, but not to the detriment of other activities in the coastal waters of the UK.

Potential Impacts Boat anchoring has the potential to cause physical damage to areas of fragile serpulid reef and horse mussel bed. Anchoring is likely to cause more damage than mooring placement, as anchors may be dropped indiscriminately, and they will generally drag before setting. Furthermore, the anchor chain will pivot around the anchor as wind direction and currents change. Therefore, there is potential for large areas of reef to be impacted by anchoring.

Management Action Although it is recognised that mariners have a right to anchor in safe areas, the Forum have decided that a strategy of emergency only anchoring within areas of serpulid reef or horse mussel bed should be adopted.

In an attempt to discourage indiscriminate anchoring, preferred anchorage areas are identified in the zoning plan for the loch (Appendix IV). The Forum recognise that it will be difficult to ensure that visitors to Loch Creran use these preferred areas. However, mariners will be informed of the locations and encouraged to use them through additions to Admiralty Charts, cruising guides, local information points, the West Highland Anchorages and Moorings Association, West Highlands and Islands Sailing Clubs Association, Royal Yachting Association, yacht charter companies, sailing and yacht clubs. Information may also be provided locally if yachts communicate via VHF with local users.

Should future monitoring of the area identify significant anchor damage, byelaws may be applied to prevent anchoring in certain areas.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.4.3 Scuba Diving

Description of Activity Location of Dive Sites Scuba Diving The west coast of Scotland, particularly areas within Argyll, is renowned for its appeal to scuba diving enthusiasts and this activity is N of significant economic importance A

R 4.4.3 to the tourism sector. Although E Rubha Garbh R diver numbers do increase in the C Sea Life Sanctuary Bay L H summer months, diving is not just a O C Creagan Narrows seasonal activity therefore there are Queenie Reef year round economic benefits from this industry.

When visiting Argyll, the majority of scuba divers tend to concentrate on wrecks within the Sound of Mull and the Firth of Lorn and diver numbers within Loch Creran are comparatively low. However, Loch Creran is a prime diving location offering shallow sheltered sites when the weather is inclement. Diving activities in the loch tend to be concentrated at sites where there is easy access from the road, for example, at Rubha Garbh, Creagan Narrows and 'Queenie Reef'.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

There are no statutory regulations imposed on recreational divers in UK waters.

The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) and Scottish Sub-Aqua Club (SSAC) produce Safe Diving Practice Guidelines, which includes guidance on environmental issues, although there is nothing to ensure that all members of BSAC and SSAC adhere to these guidelines.

Potential Impacts The fragility of the serpulid reefs makes them particularly vulnerable to physical damage, such as accidental contact from novice divers who may exhibit poor buoyancy control or poor spatial awareness. Intentional removal/collection of pieces of serpulid reef or horse mussel bed will also reduce the integrity of these habitats.

Management Action Education is the most appropriate tool to increase awareness of the marine SAC designation and preferred conduct whilst diving in the area. A dive code (Appendix V) has been developed for distribution to all SSAC, BSAC, Sub-Aqua Association (SAA), Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) clubs. This information will also be available at local air stations and interpretive signage is to be placed at strategic points around the loch.

The Forum will reassess their management of diving activities if there are any major increases in diver number or if damage is found to be occurring.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Charter Boat Operations Charter 4.4.4 Charter Boat Operations

Description of Activity At present the Forum is not aware of any charter boats operating sea angling, diving or scenic charters within Loch Creran. However, there may be occasions when chartered sailing yachts use the well-known anchorages within the area. In the future, it is possible that charter boat activities may increase within the site. 4.4.4 Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

District Salmon Fisheries Board Monitor catch returns for recreational fishing for salmon and trout. Maritime and Coastguard Agency Responsibility to prevent hazards to navigation, ensure sea safety compliance and coordinate emergency rescues. All boats must comply with the MCA Code of Practice. Scottish Natural Heritage Requirement to publish Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code under Section 51 of the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004.

Potential Impacts Other than anchoring, which is covered in 4.4.2, this activity is unlikely to have any impact on the conservation interests of Loch Creran.

Management Action No action is required from statutory authorities or through the voluntary approach at present. If the forthcoming Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code were followed, no significant impact to wildlife would be expected.

The Forum coordinator will ensure that all members are provided with copies of the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code once it is published.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management of Effluent Discharges/Dumping

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.5 Management of Effluent Discharges/Dumping

The assimilative capacity of the marine environment has long been harnessed to receive discharges from anthropogenic sources. In recent years there have been improvements in the quality of discharges in order to meet the requirements set out by the various European Directives that Scotland is committed to implementing e.g. Bathing Waters Directive, Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive and Shellfish Waters Directive. Future improvements will result when the Water Framework Directive is fully implemented. This has direct benefits to Argyll and Bute as clean coastal waters have important economic consequences for aquaculture, fishing and tourism sectors. 4.5

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.5.1 Trade Effluent Trade Effluent Description of Activity Location of Trade Effluent Discharges There are few trade effluent discharges into Loch Creran. The Marine Resource Centre Ltd. (MRC) at Barcaldine has a consent in place for a discharge of trade effluent from N A

Scottish Sea Farms 4.5.1 a smolt production unit to the loch. R E Salmon Processing Plant This consent is not being used at R C Marine Resource Centre present and is unlikely to be utilised L O C H Area impacted by historical discharges from in the short to medium term. SEPA Kelco International have no concerns relating to minor seaweed processing plant discharges from the site and consent negotiations relating to these are on-going with the MRC. Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. fish processing plant at South Shian also holds consent to discharge. No significant impact was observed around the processing plant discharge point when the last benthic survey was undertaken in August 2001. The distribution of serpulid reefs along the south shore of Loch Creran is interrupted at the old Kelco International seaweed processing plant (now MRC). However, evidence from experimental settlement plates suggest that juvenile settlement of Serpula vermicularis in the area is similar to that of healthy reef areas, indicating that historical discharges from the processing plant have resulted in the area of seabed adjacent being completely devoid of serpulid reefs. This historic discharge remains on the seabed and continues to cover any hard substrate to which juvenile worms may attach. Although the area around the former discharge has shown some improvement since discharge cessation in 1997 (monitored by SEPA in 1997, 1999 and 2001), it is not clear how far recovery will proceed. Results from the 2004 monitoring survey should provide further information on recovery.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Responsible for planning permissions on developments down to MLWS. Consulted on Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 CAR authorisation.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Regulate discharges through the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 by issuing CAR authorisations and monitor authorised discharges.

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Issue Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consents Learning Department - Transport Division for pipelines which could cause hazards to navigation. Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Issue Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 licence Department - Fisheries Research Services for outfalls extending below MHWS. Consulted on Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 CAR authorisation for discharges to tidal waters.

LOCH CRERAN 4.5.1 Trade Effluent Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action discharges outsidethemarineSACwhentakingdecisionsonconsentswithinsite. to considerthecumulativeimpactoftradeeffluentdischargesandwillthereforealso on theconservationinterestsofsite.Whenregulatingtradeeffluentdischarges,SEPAarerequired The currentleveloftradeeffluentdischargesisnotthoughttobehavingasignificantdetrimentaleffect detrimental impactonthebiologyofconservationinterestssite. significant deteriorationinwaterqualityasaresultofnutrientandchemicalricheffluentcouldhave Trade effluentcanbeasourceofpotentiallyeutrophicatingnutrientsandchemicalpollutants.A Potential Impacts Competent/Relevant Authority Scottish Water Scottish NaturalHeritage The CrownEstate of thesite. will onlybegrantedifitcanshownthatthereno impactontheconservationinterests of thesiteanappropriateassessmentwillberequired(Appendix III).Thenecessaryconsents development isproposedwhichlikelytohaveasignificant effectontheconservationinterests Future tradeeffluentdischargeapplicationswillbesubject totheHabitatsRegulations.Ifa measure fromboththeindustryandregulators. reveals animpactfromtradeeffluent,theForumwillseekappropriatemanagement No managementactionisrequiredbytheForumatpresenttime.Iffuturemonitoring of existingactivities. discharge consenttoensuretheintegrityofsiteisnotbeingthreatenedbycontinuation discharge asrequiredbytheHabitatsRegulationsandwilleitheraffirm,modifyorrevoke likely tohaveasignificanteffectonthesitetheywillmakeanappropriateassessmentofthat European Commissionhasadoptedthesite.IfSEPAdeterminethatanexistingdischargeis All existingdischargeswithintheLochCreranSACaretobereviewedbySEPAnowthat Responsibilities CAR authorisation. Environment (ControlledActivities)Regulations2005 waste watertreatmentworks.ConsultedonWater Issue consentsforthetreatmentofindustrialeffluentvia CAR authorisation. Environment (ControlledActivities)Regulations2005 Protection Act1985licences.ConsultedonWater Statutory consulteeonFoodandEnvironment direct tosea. foreshore and/orseabed.Consulteewheredischargeis Issue leasefordischargepipelineifoverCrownEstate ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.5.2 Sewage Effluent Sewage Effluent Description of Activity Location of Main Sewage Discharges and Water Designations Treated and untreated sewage effluent enters Loch Creran at a variety of locations. Untreated sewage originates from older

N properties around the perimeter of A the loch with no septic tank or R Main Population areas 4.5.2 E around Loch Creran R sewage treatment facilities. The C Recreational Waters 1 L H total number of treated and O C Shellfish Growing Waters untreated sewage sources entering Shellfish Harvesting Waters the SAC is unknown, but there are not large numbers and they are not thought to be having a detrimental impact on the conservation interests of the site.

The main basin of Loch Creran is designated as shellfish growing waters under the Shellfish Waters Directive 79/923/EEC and as shellfish harvesting waters under the Shellfish Hygiene Directive 91/492/EEC. SEPA has also classified the whole loch as Recreational Waters. Although classification as Recreational Waters is not a statutory requirement, it is SEPA's intention that these areas should meet the mandatory water quality standards set out in the EC Bathing Waters Directive 76/160/EEC.

To satisfy European Directive requirements, current SEPA Policy seeks to direct all new discharges of sewage effluent into soakaway arrangements in an attempt to avoid direct discharges to designated areas wherever possible. Where such discharges are unavoidable, consent conditions will be set to ensure that the discharge is subject to appropriate treatment2. SEPA also intends to review all existing discharges in the period 2005-2007 to seek appropriate treatment2.

Where existing sewage discharges are untreated, the installation of appropriate treatment will be required within a reasonable timescale following SEPA's review. There is no statutory deadline for the installation of such treatment, but any timescale set by SEPA will be determined on a site-by-site basis and will be dependent on the risk presented by each discharge to the quality of the receiving water.

1 Current sewage treatment within the site generally consists of septic tank discharging to soakaways or directly to tidal waters. 2 Appropriate treatment is defined as treatment of wastewater by any process and/or disposal system that, after discharge, allows the receiving waters to meet the relevant quality objectives and the relevant provisions of EC Directives.

LOCH CRERAN 4.5.2 Sewage Effluent Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action sewage effluentcancausesignificantdamagetolocalbenthic communities. Treated anduntreatedsewageeffluentisapotentialsourceofeutrophicatingnutrients.Discharge Potential Impacts Competent/Relevant AuthorityResponsibilities Argyll andButeCouncil Competent/Relevant Authority The CrownEstate Scottish Water Scottish NaturalHeritage Department -FisheriesResearchServices Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs Learning Department-TransportDivision Scottish ExecutiveEnterprise,TransportandLifelong Maritime andCoastguardAgency Scottish EnvironmentProtectionAgency threatened bythecontinuationofexistingactivities. modify orrevokethedischargeconsenttoensure integrityofthesiteisnotbeing assessment ofthatdischargeasrequiredbytheHabitats Regulationsandwilleitheraffirm, discharge islikelytohaveasignificanteffectonthesite, theywillmakeanappropriate that theEuropeanCommissionhasadoptedsite.If SEPAdeterminethatanexisting All existingconsenteddischargeswithintheLochCreranSAC aretobereviewedbySEPAnow Responsibilities 2005 CARauthorisationfordischargestotidalwaters. Water Environment(ControlledActivities)Regulations for outfallsextendingbelowMHWS.Consultedon Issue FoodandEnvironmentProtectionAct1985licence discharge isdirecttosea. Estate foreshoreand/orseabed.Consulteewhere Issue leaseforthedischargepipelineifoverCrown Regulations 2005CARauthorisation. on WaterEnvironment(ControlledActivities) treatment anddischargeofdomesticsewage.Consulted Responsible foroperationofpublicsewersandthe CAR authorisation. Environment (ControlledActivities)Regulations2005 Protection Act1985licences.ConsultedonWater Statutory consulteeforFoodandEnvironment navigation. for sewageoutfallswhichcouldcausehazardsto Issue CoastProtectionAct1949Section34consents outside harbourorderarea. controls overdisposalofvesselbilgewaterandsewage Management ofpollutionatsea.Responsibilityfor authorisation. (Controlled Activities)Regulations2005CAR down toMLWS.ConsultedonWaterEnvironment Responsible forplanningpermissionsondevelopments authorisations andmonitorauthoriseddischarges. (Controlled Activities)Regulations2005byissuingCAR Regulate dischargesthroughtheWaterEnvironment ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

No management action is required by the Forum at this present time. If future monitoring reveals an impact from sewage effluent, the Forum will seek the appropriate management

measure from both the regulators. Sewage Effluent

Future sewage effluent discharge applications will be subject to the Habitats Regulations. If a development is proposed which is likely to have a significant effect on the conservation interests of the site an appropriate assessment will be required (Appendix III). The necessary consents will only be granted if it can be shown that there will be no impact on the conservation interests of the site. 4.5.2

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Marine Littering and Dumping Littering Marine

4.5.3 Marine Littering and Dumping

Description of Activity Marine litter can originate from a wide range of sources from domestic and recreational activities to commercial businesses that operate within or adjacent to the site. Passing marine traffic can also be a major source of litter.

Within Loch Creran there are several areas of seabed that contain debris from finfish farming activities. Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. recently located and removed finfish farm related debris from some of these 4.5.3 areas.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Statutory duty for littering/dumping on public ground. Removal of fly-tipping waste and prosecution of those responsible.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Statutory duty under the Food and Environment Department - Fisheries Research Services Protection Act 1985 to control the deposit of articles or materials in the sea/tidal waters e.g. disposal of dredged material.

The Crown Estate Required to ensure that leaseholders adhere to the conditions of their leases and remove all equipment when the lease is relinquished.

Potential Impacts Marine debris that is large or heavy could potentially cause physical damage if dropped on top of fragile serpulid reef or horse mussel areas. The disposal of litter containing chemicals could also cause significant impacts to the conservation interests. There are also aesthetic issues and debris visible on the loch may reduce the perceived conservation value of the site. The current level of marine debris is not thought to be a problem in relation to its impact on the conservation interests of the site.

Management Action Encourage current and future local businesses, including boat operators, to participate in an accredited environmental management system.

Identify funding possibilities and/or physical assistance to help current and future local businesses, including boat operators, to participate in an accredited environmental management system.

Promote the existence of the SAC, encouraging homeowners, recreational visitors and boat owners/operators to dispose of litter properly.

Promote a strategy of land-based disposal in the correct facilities.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management of Shipping and Boat Maintenance

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.6 Management of Shipping and Boat Maintenance

With shipping still the main form of cargo transport into and out of Britain, it is clear that maritime trade is very significant economically. On the Scottish west coast, the main cargo shipping route is through the Minch to the North Channel or into the Clyde. There is also significant movement of oil tanker traffic down the Minch through the North Channel to refineries within The Minch the UK and Ireland. 4.6 Sea of Hebrides Sound of Mull Firth of Lorn Clyde North Channel Increasingly, the west highlands of Scotland are becoming a destination for cruise ships. During the summer months, cruise ships are seen regularly throughout the area calling at various Argyll islands and sea loch destinations. Oban and Campbeltown tend to be amongst their main ports of call.

Widely recognised as a prime destination for sailing and boating, there is significant sailing related infrastructure throughout Argyll and Bute in the form of marinas, moorings and boat yards.

Argyll and Bute contains 25 inhabited islands and ferries provide an essential service for communities living in these remote rural areas.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Commercial Marine Commercial Marine Traffic

4.6.1 Commercial Marine Traffic

Description of Activity Location of Main Marine Traffic Bases Oil Tankers and Cargo Vessels More frequently, large cargo ships and oil tankers en route from the north of Scotland to the Clyde and

North Channel are using the Sound N A 4.6.1 of Mull and Firth of Lorn to reduce R E journey times. The grounding of the R C Foster Yeoman MV Lysfoss and subsequent spill of L H O C Scottish Sea Farms fuel oil in the Sound of Mull in 2001 Marine Resource Centre has highlighted the potential for an environmental disaster as a result of large boat traffic passing through or close by the area.

No oil tankers enter Loch Creran. Cargo operations within the loch consist of timber, aggregate and fish feed. Live fish are brought via well-boats to Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. fish processing facility at South Shian. It is envisaged that cargo transportation may increase with future development at the Marine Resource Centre at Barcaldine.

Ferries The only passenger transport operating within the SAC is the Foster Yeoman Ltd. boat that transports employees to Glensanda Quarry on Morvern.

Fishing Vessels It is generally local boats that fish within Loch Creran.

Cruise Ships No large cruise ships operate within the SAC.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Preparation of Oil Spill Contingency Plan. Responsibility for the removal and disposal of beached oil, chemical pollution, spilled deck cargo and for the recovery of oil spilled in ports and harbours for small to medium-scale spills.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency Responsible for National Contingency Plan to manage pollution at sea. Take responsibility for the management and co-ordination of large-scale incidents and establish a Shoreline Response Centre to co-ordinate agencies and resources. Responsibility for preventing hazards to navigation and ensuring sea safety compliance.

LOCH CRERAN 4.6.1 Commercial Marine Traffic Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action of non-nativeinvasivespecies. consequences forlochwaterquality.Inthepast,bilge hasalsobeenlinkedtotheintroduction The illegalpumpingofbilgewatercontainingpollutants mayalsotakeplace,withpotential conservation interests. also causelocalisedzonesoforganicenrichment,which couldhaveanegativeimpactonthe cause damagetobiogenicreefsifthecargolandsdirectlyontopofreefareas.Spilledfishfeedcould various formsofmarinetrafficfoundwithintheSAC.Cargospillagesaggregateandfishfeedcould In theeventofcollisionorgrounding,thereispotentialforspillfueloildeckcargofrom are unlikelytobeimpactedsignificantly. within thelochifoiliswashedashore.However,subtidalserpulidreefsandhorsemusselbeds A significantoilspilloutsideLochCrerancouldhaveanimpactonintertidalbirdandmarinewildlife Potential Impacts chemical anddeckcargospillages. dealing withspillsorthethreatofwithinCouncilarea.TheseAgencieswillalsodeal Maritime andCoastguardAgency,SEPA,SNH,PortPieruserslocalinterestgroupswhen The ArgyllandButeCouncilOilSpillContingencyPlanwillbeusedbyCouncil, Competent/Relevant Authority Department -FisheriesResearchServices Scottish ExecutiveEnvironmentandRuralAffairs Scottish NaturalHeritage Scottish EnvironmentProtectionAgency Northern LighthouseBoard conservation interestsofthesite. The Forumhasagreedthatnomanagementactionis currently requiredtoprotectthe Responsibilities Environment Groupineventofalarge-scaleincident. of marineandcoastalarea.Participateinthe Provide adviceconcerningnatureconservationinterest Group ineventofalarge-scaleincident. Provide adviceonspills.ParticipateintheEnvironment nm ofsuchwaterstomanageanypollutionincident. of chemicaldispersantsinwaters<20mandwithin1 incidents involvingoilandchemicalspills.Licenceuse Provide fullemergencycovertorespondmarine incident. the EnvironmentGroupineventofalarge-scale discharges within3milesfromshore.Participatein there isapollutionincident.Maysampleanypolluting Provide technicaladviceandmonitoringassistanceif maintenance. removal wherenecessary,buoylayingandlighthouse Prevent hazardstonavigationbywreckmarkingand Boat Hull Maintenance and Antifoulant Use

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.6.2 Boat Hull Maintenance and Antifoulant Use

Description of Activity Location of Boat Maintenance Facilities Run-off from hull cleaning operations is a trade effluent. It may contain residual pesticides and detergents and could be classified as special waste. The management of trade N A effluent discharges is considered in R 4.6.2 E 4.5.1. Information on the current R C Creran Moorings L H extent of hull cleaning activity O C Marine Resource Centre around Loch Creran is sparse, but Creran Boat Storage boat maintenance is known to occur at the Marine Resource Centre Ltd. (MRC) and Creran Boat Storage. SEPA have not issued any consents for hull cleaning operations within Loch Creran. If necessary, SEPA would expect to regulate these activities as soon as possible.

Fish farm operators are required to supply information on their intended use of antifoulants at the CAR authorisation application stage and then provide SEPA with monthly returns on the actual level of usage. This provides SEPA with information on the release of substances listed under the EC Dangerous Substances Directive (76/464/EEC and Daughter Directives) and will be used in subsequent reviews following the outcomes of research on the effects of antifoulant coatings used in aquaculture.

In relation to antifoulant use on fish farm cages in Loch Creran, Scottish Sea Farms Ltd. antifoul their nets at a net station in Lochaline and the cages are returned there for cleaning. Fusion Marine constructs fish farm cages at the MRC but do not use antifoulants.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Scottish Environment Protection Agency SEPA regulate trade effluent discharges from boat maintenance facilities through the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 by issuing CAR authorisations and monitor authorised discharges.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Potential Impacts Most antifoulant products are designed to kill or discourage naturally occurring organisms and may cause damage to the water environment if used carelessly. Under normal responsible usage there is unlikely to be any impact to the conservation interests of the site.

LOCH CRERAN 4.6.2 Boat Hull Maintenance and Antifoulant Use Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action website Pollution PreventionGuidelinesforMarinasandCraftcanbedownloadedfromtheSEPA treatments. UseoftheseGuidelinesistobeencouragedwithinmarineSACareas. circulated toallForummembersandthosebusinessesemployingtheuseofantifoulant The ForumrecommendsthatPollutionPreventionGuidelinesforMarinasandCraftshouldbe www.sepa.org.uk Management of Coastal Development/Land Use

ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.7 Management of Coastal Development/Land-Use

With our coastal zones being a prime economic resource, development pressure on these areas already exists and new development pressures, such as renewable energy, continue to emerge. Land-use can also have important implications on the adjacent sea areas. Positive economic growth, such as that experienced by the tourism sector, can have implications for coastal development with improvements in infrastructure necessary to support the requirements of increased visitor numbers.

It is imperative that our coasts and inshore waters are utilised in a way that is compatible with, and

enhances, the social, environmental and cultural value of these areas. 4.7

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.7.1 Coastal Development Coastal Development

Description of Activity This can include any construction work that occurs on land adjacent to the SAC, along the foreshore or on the nearshore seabed. Examples include slipways, coastal defence, coastal roads, piers, harbours, renewable energy and tidal barrages. Extraction of material from the foreshore or seabed for the aggregate industry currently does not occur within the site. 4.7.1 Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Responsible for planning permissions on developments down to MLWS. Responsibility to undertake coastal protection works/flood defence. Statutory consultee for Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consents

District Salmon Fisheries Board Consultee on coastal development and extraction of material from the foreshore and seabed.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency Consultee on extraction of material from the seabed.

Northern Lighthouse Board Consultee where development could affect navigation.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Statutory consultee for planning applications and Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 licences. Regulate activities involving the re-use or deposit of waste materials used for construction work e.g. sea defences.

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Issue Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consents Learning Department - Transport Division for developments that could cause hazards to navigation. Administer Harbour Orders for marine construction under the Harbours Act 1964.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Consultee on coastal development. Department - Agriculture

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Issue Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 Department - Fisheries Research Services licences for coastal developments extending below MHWS. Consultee on extraction of material from the seabed.

Scottish Natural Heritage Statutory consultee on the development of local plans, planning applications, Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consents, Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 licences and seabed/foreshore leases.

The Crown Estate Issue foreshore or seabed lease if development on Crown Estate land.

LOCH CRERAN 4.7.1 Coastal/Marine Development Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action conservation interestsofLochCreran. The currentextentofsuchdevelopmentsisnotconsideredtobehavingadetrimentalimpactonthe serpulid andhorsemusselhabitat. The constructionofjetties,piers,slipways,coastalroadsanddefencescouldcausedirectloss Potential Impacts of thesite. will onlybegrantedifitcanshownthattherenoimpactontheconservationinterests of thesiteanappropriateassessmentwillberequired(AppendixIII).Thenecessaryconsents development isproposedwhichlikelytohaveasignificanteffectontheconservationinterests Future coastaldevelopmentrelatedproposalswouldbesubjecttotheHabitatsRegulations.Ifa The Forumhasnocoastaldevelopmentrelatedconcernsatpresent. ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.7.2 Agriculture

Description of Activity Agriculture Agriculture is an important industry in Argyll and Bute, not just in terms of economic output, but also in terms of its impact on the landscape, natural environment and the social systems that it supports.

There is some extensive livestock agriculture on the north and far western shores of Loch Creran. Some agricultural activities are regulated under The Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) (Scotland) Regulations 2001. Farmers are currently encouraged to adopt accepted good 4.7.2 practice, as outlined in documents such as the Four Point Plan, the Farm Soils Plan and the Prevention of Environmental Pollution from Agricultural Activity (PEPFAA) Code.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

District Salmon Fisheries Board Consultee on land drainage.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Statutory consultee for land drainage and agricultural developments. Undertake farm inspections (both ad hoc and routine) supported by incident response where required. Respond to pollution incidents as required.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for agricultural land drainage and re-seeding Department - Agriculture of land.

Scottish Natural Heritage Provide advice concerning nature conservation interest of marine and coastal area.

Scottish Water Responsibilities for land drainage.

Changes to the regulatory regime are expected with implementation of the Water Framework Directive via the Water Environment Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003. The Scottish Executive recently consulted on measures to tackle diffuse pollution, including new regulations in the form of General Binding Rules based on accepted good practice. A further consultation on this is expected in Autumn 2006.

Potential Impacts Agricultural operations may have the potential to reduce water quality where run-off enters directly into a watercourse or the marine environment. Increased faecal coliform concentrations, which may result from poor agricultural practice, can be a problem for the shellfish industry. The current level of agriculture does not appear to be having any impact on the conservation interests of the site.

LOCH CRERAN 4.7.2 Agriculture Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action conservation interestsofthesite. The Forumhasagreedthatnomanagementactioniscurrentlyrequiredtoprotectthe ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.7.3 Forestry

Location of Forested Areas Description of Activity

Forestry is important to Argyll and Forestry Bute in terms of both economic benefits and recreation. Forestry Commission Scotland manages its N A own forests for multiple-benefits, R E

R 4.7.3 including conservation (management C of habitats, species, archaeology), L O C H recreation (forest walks and cycle routes for both locals and tourists), local communities and also Forested Areas landscape needs.

The forestry industry currently adheres to the Forests and Water Guidelines, which were derived following extensive consultation throughout the forest and water industries, government departments, including Forestry Commission Scotland and SEPA, research institutes and other relevant organisations. The Guidelines provide guidance to forest managers and practitioners on how forests should be designed, planned and operations carried out in order to protect and enhance the water environment.

There is currently a significant amount of forestry in the catchment area around Loch Creran. The Marine Resource Centre Ltd. (MRC) and Forestry Commission Scotland have developed a catchment management plan to ensure that water quality for a proposed salmon hatchery at the MRC site meets the required standards. This may be a useful model in the future for other areas of forestry around the loch.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Argyll and Bute Council Statutory consultee for forestry developments.

District Salmon Fisheries Board Consultee on forestry developments.

Forestry Commission Scotland Responsible for regulating forestry industry. Issue consents for afforestation proposals of ≥ 2 ha and deforestation of ≥ 0.5 ha.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency Statutory consultee for forestry developments, commenting on Woodland Grant Scheme and Felling Licence applications. Promote adherance to Forests and Water Guidelines and respond to pollution incidents as required.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Consultee on forestry developments. Department - Agriculture

LOCH CRERAN 4.7.3 Forestry Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Management Action of thesite. around LochCreranisnotconsideredtobehavingadetrimentalimpactontheconservationinterests conservation interestsofLochCreran.However,thecurrentextentandmanagementforestry water exchangeandthereforelarge-scaleplantationorfellingproposalsmayhaveanimpactonthe water qualityaremorepronouncedinfreshwatercatchmentsormarineareasexperiencingrestricted eutrophication orthetranslocationofherbicidesandinsecticides.Theimplicationsdeteriorationin Land preparationanddevelopmentforforestrymayhaveanimpactonwaterqualitythroughsiltation, Potential Impacts Autumn 2006. General BindingRulesbasedonacceptedgoodpractice.Afurtherconsultationthisisexpectedin recently consultedonmeasurestotacklediffusepollution,includingnewregulationsintheformof Directive viatheWaterEnvironmentServices(Scotland)Act2003.TheScottishExecutive Changes totheregulatoryregimeareexpectedwithimplementationofWaterFramework Competent/Relevant Authority Scottish Water Scottish NaturalHeritage the conservationinterestsofsite. The necessaryconsentswillonlybegrantedifitcanshownthattherenoimpacton the conservationinterestsofsiteanappropriateassessmentwillberequired(AppendixIII). Habitats Regulations.Ifadevelopmentisproposedwhichlikelytohavesignificanteffecton Any futureforestrydevelopmentsaroundtheboundaryofSACwillbesubjectto conservation interestsofthesite. The Forumhasagreedthatnomanagementactioniscurrentlyrequiredtoprotectthe Responsibilities Consultee onforestrydevelopments. Statutory consulteeonforestrydevelopments. ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT

MEASURES Management of Scientific Research

4.8 Management of Scientific Research

With high profile academic institutions like the University Marine Biological Station Millport and the Scottish Association for Marine Science located on the west coast of Scotland, scientific research has concentrated on the marine and coastal environment of the west coast for over 120 years. An incredible amount of research has focused on obtaining a greater understanding of the habitats and species in west coast waters. Providing an insight into the effective management of our important marine resources undoubtedly has great benefits for the future management of the Argyll marine SACs. 4.8

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

4.8.1 Scientific Research Scientific Research

Description of Activity For a number of decades, scientific research activities have occurred within Loch Creran. Research has concentrated on many different aspects of the marine and coastal environment. A significant amount of research has focused on the serpulid reefs and horse mussel beds.

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities 4.8.1

Competent/Relevant Authority Responsibilities

Scottish Executive Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Issue Coast Protection Act 1949 Section 34 consents Learning Department - Transport Division for scientific research that may cause a hazard to navigation.

Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Responsible for licensing deposits in the sea below Department - Fisheries Research Services MHWS.

Scottish Natural Heritage Issue license if research activities involve a species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 or a European Protected Species under the Habitats Directive. Provide advice to academic institutions on the effects of research on the conservation interests of a SAC.

Potential Impacts Direct alteration, removal or manipulation of the serpulid reefs, horse mussel beds and their resident associated species may occur through research activities.

It is likely that given the thorough background investigation necessary to develop a research project, researchers would be aware of the legal status of the habitat, species or area they wish to study. Researchers generally contact Scottish Natural Heritage or SEERAD Fisheries Research Services to determine if any conservation issues are likely to arise from their proposed study.

Management Action The Forum recommend that any proposals to undertake marine research involving potential damage to the conservation interests of the site should have clear outcomes which will benefit the long-term health and management of the conservation interests. In general, there should be a presumption against destructive research.

LOCH CRERAN 4 ACTIVITIES AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation IMPLEMENTATION 5 5 IMPLEMENTATION Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Implementation of the Management Plan IMPLEMENTATION

5.1 Implementation of the Management Plan

Implementation of this management plan will be necessary to ensure compliance with the Habitats Directive. Although it will be the responsibility of the relevant and competent statutory authorities to control activities within their respective remits, the Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum will continue to play a key role in formulating new and amending old management actions. Argyll and Bute Council will coordinate and administer the Forum and will be the principal agency coordinating implementation of the management actions.

Argyll and Bute Council will: 5.1 Continue to coordinate the activities of the Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum.

Facilitate implementation of management actions identified in the Loch Creran Marine SAC Management Plan.

Update and revise the Loch Creran Marine SAC Management Plan as directed by the Forum.

Develop and encourage research projects that will aid future management of the site.

Continue to increase awareness and understanding about the SAC.

The Forum will meet annually, or when necessary, if issues arise which should be addressed urgently.

LOCH CRERAN 5 IMPLEMENTATION Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Implementation Phase Management Actions

IMPLEMENTATION

5.2 Implementation Phase Management Actions

IMPLEMENTATION PHASE ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & TASKS

FISHING 5.2

Benthic Dredging Fishermen should be informed of the SAC designation and any management actions for the site through the Secretaries of the Fishermen's Associations, through local Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA) Officers, the Scottish Inshore Fisheries Advisory Group (SIFAG) or via vessel lists.

Benthic Trawling In the interim period until a statutory zoning plan is finalised, the local zoning plan will continue to be publicised and distributed.

Fishermen should be informed of the SAC designation and any management actions for the site through the Secretaries of the Fishermen's Associations, through local Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA) Officers, the Scottish Inshore Fisheries Advisory Group (SIFAG) or via vessel lists.

Creel Fishing In the interim period until a statutory zoning plan is finalised, the local zoning plan will continue to be publicised and distributed.

Whelk Fishing In the interim period until a statutory zoning plan is finalised, the local zoning plan will continue to be publicised and distributed.

Shellfish Diving The Forum recommends that statutory measures should be introduced to prohibit harvesting from horse mussel beds in Loch Creran.

AQUACULTURE

Finfish Farming The Forum recommends that relevant/competent authorities ensure that any future finfish farming developments are not sited over biogenic reefs, as there is potential for smothering from organic waste products.

LOCH CRERAN 5.2 Implementation Phase Managemnet Actions Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation Operations Charter Boat Scuba Diving Anchoring Boat Moorings Shellfish Farming ACTIVITY VHF withlocalusers. and yachtclubs.Informationmayalsobeprovidedlocallyifyachtscommunicatevia Sailing ClubsAssociation,RoyalYachtingyachtchartercompanies,sailing West HighlandAnchoragesandMooringsAssociation,HighlandsIslands through additionstoAdmiraltyCharts,cruisingguides,localinformationpoints,the However, marinerswillbeinformedofthelocationsandencouragedtousethem will bedifficulttoensurethatvisitorsLochCreranusethesepreferredareas. identified inthezoningplanforloch(AppendixIV).TheForumrecognisethatit In anattempttodiscourageindiscriminateanchoring,preferredanchorageareasare www.scotland.gov.uk Moorings Pack methodology outlinedintheLochCreranMarineSAC:PrivateandCommercial biogenic reefbeforemooringsaredropped.Thissurveyshouldfollowthe mooring placementbeprecededbyadiversurveytochecktheareaisclearof The Forumrecommendsthatrelevant/competentauthoritiesensurefuture www.scotland.gov.uk Moorings Pack the methodologyoutlinedin the areaisclearofbiogenicreefbeforetheyaredropped.Thissurveyshouldfollow of futuremusselfarmingmoorings/anchorsbeprecededbyadiversurveytocheck The Forumrecommendsthatrelevant/competentauthoritiesensureplacement for smotheringfromshellsandorganicwasteproductsbelowshellfishlines. mussel farmingdevelopmentsarenotsitedoverbiogenicreefs,asthereispotential The Forumrecommendsthatrelevant/competentauthoritiesensureanyfuture www.scotland.gov.uk Moorings Pack methodology outlinedinthe is clearofbiogenicreefbeforemooringsaredropped.Thissurveyshouldfollowthe placement offinfishfarmmooringsbeprecededbyadiversurveytocheckthearea The Forumrecommendsthatrelevant/competentauthoritiesensurefuture SNH ScottishMarineWildlifeWatchingCodeonceitispublished. The Forumcoordinatorwillensurethatallmembersareprovidedwith copiesofthe stations andinterpretivesignageistobeplacedatstrategicpointsaround theloch. Underwater Instructors(NAUI)clubs.Thisinformationwillalsobeavailable atlocalair Professional AssociationofDivingInstructors(PADI)andNational Associationof has beendevelopedfordistributiontoallSSAC,BSAC,Sub-AquaAssociation (SAA), designation andpreferredconductwhilstdivinginthearea.Adivecode (AppendixV) Education isthemostappropriatetooltoincreaseawarenessof the marineSAC available fromtheScottishExecutive,PortsandHarboursBranch available fromtheScottishExecutive,PortsandHarboursBranch available fromtheScottishExecutive,PortsandHarboursBranch MANAGEMENT ACTIONS&TASKS or fromTheCrownEstatewww.thecrownestate.co.uk. or fromTheCrownEstatewww.thecrownestate.co.uk. or fromTheCrownEstatewww.thecrownestate.co.uk. IMPLEMENTATION PHASE RECREATION &TOURISM Loch CreranMarineSAC:PrivateandCommercial Loch CreranMarineSAC:PrivateandCommercial Implementation Phase Management Actions

IMPLEMENTATION

IMPLEMENTATION PHASE ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & TASKS

EFFLUENT DISCHARGES/DUMPING

Trade Effluent All existing discharges within the Loch Creran SAC are to be reviewed by SEPA now that the European Commission has adopted the site. If SEPA feel that an existing discharge is likely to have a significant effect on the site they will make an appropriate assessment of that discharge as required by the Habitats Regulations and will either 5.2 affirm, modify or revoke the discharge consent to ensure the integrity of the site is not being threatened by the continuation of existing activities.

Sewage Effluent All existing consented discharges within the Loch Creran SAC are to be reviewed by SEPA now that the European Commission has adopted the site. If SEPA feel that an existing discharge is likely to have a significant effect on the site they will make an appropriate assessment of that discharge as required by the Habitats Regulations and will either affirm, modify or revoke the discharge consent to ensure the integrity of the site is not being threatened by the continuation of existing activities.

Marine Littering and Encourage current and future local businesses, including boat operators, to participate Dumping in an accredited environmental management system.

Identify funding possibilities and/or physical assistance to help current and future local businesses, including boat operators, to participate in an accredited environmental management system.

Promote the existence of the SAC, encouraging homeowners, recreational visitors and boat owners/operators to dispose of litter properly.

Promote a strategy of land-based disposal in the correct facilities.

SHIPPING AND BOAT MAINTENANCE

Boat Hull The Forum recommends that Pollution Prevention Guidelines for Marinas and Craft Maintenance and should be circulated to all Forum members and those businesses employing the use of Antifoulant Use antifoulant treatments. Use of these Guidelines is to be encouraged within marine SAC areas.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Scientific Research The Forum recommend that any proposals to undertake marine research involving potential damage to the conservation interests of the site should have clear outcomes which will benefit the long-term health and management of the conservation interests. In general, there should be a presumption against destructive research.

LOCH CRERAN 5 IMPLEMENTATION Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MONITORING 6 6 MONITORING Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MONITORING Site Condition Monitoring

6.1 Site Condition Monitoring

Although site condition monitoring is not a requirement of the Habitats Directive, there must be surveillance of the resource and Member States have a duty to report to the European Commission Environment Directorate General every six years1 on the status of their marine SACs.

In order to contribute to the UK’s reporting commitments, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) will conduct site condition monitoring to assess the general health and extent of the conservation interest and also to determine if there have been any changes in habitat distribution or any significant

disturbance. SNH will conduct small-scale emergency monitoring within the six-year period if activities 6.1 are reported which may be seriously damaging the conservation interest of the site. Information gathered through routine monitoring carried out by other organisations, e.g. Fisheries Research Services and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, in fulfilment of other legislative requirements would also contribute toward meeting these reporting commitments.

It is imperative that a component of site condition monitoring, or other research projects are directed to address management issues highlighted in the Activities and Management Measures section of this plan, in order to inform decisions on future management. It has been agreed that the SNH marine SAC monitoring team will consult the Forum on their proposed monitoring strategy before undertaking site condition monitoring, in order to identify areas that may be sensitive to impact.

SNH monitoring team communicate with Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum to determine monitoring strategy

Undertake monitoring Report back to European Commission Report presented to Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum

Argyll Marine SAC Management Forum meet to discuss results and amend management plan if necessary

1 The next report will cover the period from January 2001 to December 2006.

LOCH CRERAN 6 MONITORING Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MONITORING Compliance Monitoring 6.2 Compliance Monitoring

Argyll and Bute Council will continue to take a lead role in the coordination and administration of the Forum. They will be responsible, along with the relevant statutory authorities, for ensuring that users of the area are following the site management plan.

In a coordinating role, Argyll and Bute Council will be in a position to implement and monitor the success of the management actions outlined in this document. They will report annually to the Forum on progress and will coordinate implementation tasks in collaboration with relevant Forum Members. 6.2 Management actions are currently voluntary therefore compliance needs to be monitored at a local level. It is hoped that users working within the site will take on the role of stewards of the area and advise visitors, when possible, if they are in breach of any of the locally agreed measures. However, if any Forum member suspects that illegal practices or significant damage is occurring within the SAC, they should contact the appropriate relevant authority, or follow the procedure outlined below:

Report suspected damage to Argyll and Bute Council Marine & Coastal Development Unit and Relevant/Competent Authority

Is activity subject to any regulatory Is the activity unlicensed e.g. anchoring, controls e.g. fishing license, or illegal e.g. dumping? discharge consent?

Relevant/competent authority Marine and Coastal Development Unit investigate and take action as necessary investigate on behalf of Argyll Marine under appropriate legislation SAC Management Forum

Individual/Company informed Report made to Argyll Marine SAC of marine SAC designation and any Management Forum management measures in place.

CASE CLOSED Agrees to stop Does not agree to stop damaging activity damaging activity

Activity monitored Forum meets to discuss and report made to how further pressure Argyll Marine SAC can be applied Management Forum

CASE CLOSED

LOCH CRERAN 6 MONITORING Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation MONITORING Review of Existing Consents

6.3 Review of Existing Consents

Under Regulation 50 of the Habitats Regulations, all relevant and competent authorities are required to undertake a review of all existing consents, permissions or other authorisations within the site and are required to either affirm, modify or revoke any consent, permission or other authorisation to ensure the integrity of the site is not being threatened by the continuation of existing activities. These reviews are now due to take place, as the SAC has become a European Site. 6.3

LOCH CRERAN 6 MONITORING Argyll Marine Special Marine Argyll Areas ofConservation