A major scallop conservation exercise is under way in Douglas Bay, which has been closed to towed fishing gear until 2011.
In the past few days 26,000 two year-old scallops have been placed in the 'protected' environment, with the aim of producing a dense population from which offspring, or 'spat', will settle on fishing grounds in Manx waters.
The location was chosen after lengthy consultation with local fishermen and fisheries scientists, as DAFF Minister Phil Gawne explains (audio file attached):
The Douglas Bay initiative follows a similar exercise in the south of the Island, described by Mr Gawne as 'extremely successful'.
Researching your Manx family history can be a very interesting and rewarding hobby. Trace your roots in the Isle of Man with our helpful of guide.
