On 2 September 2013 the Sportvisunie joined the VIBEG agreement. By signing it, organised angling took responsibility for Natura 2000 objectives in the North Sea coastal zone and on the Vlakte van de Raan.
What does the agreement mean?
The North Sea coastal zone (a strip of three miles seaward, from Bergen to Rottum) and the Vlakte van de Raan (southwest of the Netherlands, adjacent to the Voordelta) have Natura 2000 status. In the VIBEG agreement the parties commit to reducing fishing in these areas, to adapting fishing practices, or to temporary fishing closures. The Sportvisunie supports those arrangements and thus contributes to achieving Natura 2000 objectives and to healthier fish stocks in the North Sea.
Interaction between nature and recreational fishing
When VIBEG started in December 2011 the Sportvisunie did not take part. We quickly rectified that omission. Recreational fishing and nature appreciation fit well together. Nature increases opportunities for anglers. Anglers pay attention to clean water and a healthy environment and thereby provide valuable signals about the coast and marine life.
Multiple interests and commitment
Chairman Menno Knip and director Joop Bongers signed the covenant on behalf of the Sportvisunie and the federations. In the VIBEG Steering Group the Sportvisunie represents the interests of angling. At the same time the organisation contributes to the broader goal: better fish stocks and higher nature values.
The knowledge and networks that recreational anglers bring help drive innovation in the fisheries sector. Together with the other partners, the Sportvisunie is working on a package of fisheries measures aimed at achieving Natura 2000 objectives in the coastal areas.
Read also:
- Visionary article: 'Natura 2000 in the North Sea' (pdf)
- Access Restrictions Decree of 2013 with map annexes
In this way the Sportvisunie makes a concrete contribution to improved fish stocks and to achieving Natura 2000 objectives in the North Sea.