Menai Strait Partnership Forum- Impact Report

APRIL 2023

IMPACT REPORT MENAI STRAIT PARTNERSHIP FORUM

WWW.NORTHWALESRIVERSTRUST.ORG/MENAISTRAIT

IMPACT REPORT

About The Forum The Menai Strait Partnership Forum is a vital initiative established by the North Wales Rivers Trust and the Menai Strait Fisheries Order Management Association (MSFOMA) with funding from the Welsh Government Coastal Capacity Building Fund. The Forum's ultimate goal is to ensure that the Menai Strait region remains climate-resilient for business, recreation, and the environment, not just for today but for future generations.

This Forum serves as a powerful platform that brings together stakeholders from various sectors to share information, collaborate and work towards sustainable management and conservation of the Menai Strait. By tackling the challenges posed by climate change and human activities, such as habitat degradation, pollution, recreation, and cultural heritage preservation, the Forum aims to promote sustainable practices, foster cooperation among stakeholders, and advocate for the well-being of the Menai Strait and its communities.

Through the Forum's collaborative projects and initiatives, the Partners will work towards building a resilient Menai Strait that can withstand the impacts of changing environmental conditions and societal needs.

The Menai Strait Partnership Forum unites stakeholders with a shared interest in the unique natural environment, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage of the Menai Strait region. This collaborative platform fosters dialogue, cooperation, and coordination among government agencies, local authorities, environmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and local communities.

Through regular meetings, workshops, and events, the Forum will facilitate collaborative efforts to promote sustainable management and conservation of the Menai Strait. Stakeholders share information, exchange ideas, and discuss issues related to habitat conservation, pollution, climate change, navigation, recreation, and cultural heritage preservation. The Forum also plays a vital role in shaping policies, strategies, and actions related to the region and coordinating projects and initiatives to benefit the area and its communities.

Operating based on principles of inclusivity, transparency, and participatory decision-making, the Forum establishes working groups to focus on specific issues and projects, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered and decisions are made collectively. Ultimately, the Menai Strait Partnership Forum strives to achieve a sustainable future for the Menai Strait region that balances environmental conservation, economic development, and social well-being.

WEB RESOURCE

The Menai Strait is a distinctive strip of tidal water that separates the mainland of Gwynedd from the island of Ynys Môn (Anglesey) in North Wales. Spanning over 30 kilometers from Trwyn Penmon in the North to Abermenai Point in the South, the Strait is characterised by its unique geography and ecological significance.

Thirteen rivers flow into the Menai Strait, with nine originating from the mainland and four from Ynys Môn.

While the Menai Strait itself is not a river, the surrounding lands and close proximity to agriculture and urbanisation pose similar challenges to those faced by the rivers within the catchment area. The impacts of human activities, such as habitat degradation, pollution, and recreational pressures, as well as the effects of climate change, are significant concerns for the Menai Strait and its ecosystems.

Recognising the importance of addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable management and conservation of the Menai Strait, the Menai Strait Partnership Forum was established by the North Wales Rivers Trust and the Menai Strait Fisheries Order Management Association (MSFOMA). The Forum provides a collaborative platform for stakeholders to come together, share information, and work collectively towards ensuring that the Menai Strait is resilient to the impacts of climate change and human activities, now and into the future.

We have developed an online platform that provides easy access to data, statistics, and information about the challenges facing the Menai Strait. This platform incorporates existing data and information related to the issues affecting the Menai Strait, making it a valuable resource for individuals and potential stakeholders interested in the region. Through this platform, we aim to raise awareness, promote understanding, and foster engagement with the environmental, social, and economic issues that impact the Menai Strait. By providing accessible and up-to-date information, we strive to facilitate informed decision-making and collaborative efforts towards sustainable management and conservation of the Menai Strait. Check out the online hub below:www.northwalesriverstrust.org/menaistrait

why is the menai strait so important?

TOURISM IN THE STRAIT The Menai Strait is a natural wonder that has been attracting visitors for centuries. With its salt waters, iconic bridge, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife, it's no wonder that tourism has become one of the most important industries in the region.

Each year, thousands of tourists flock to the Menai Strait to experience its beauty and explore its many attractions. From sailing and kayaking to hiking and birdwatching, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The area is also home to a range of historical and cultural sites, including the magnificent Caernarfon Castle and the charming towns of Beaumaris and Menai Bridge.

One of the most popular tourist activities in the Menai Strait is wildlife watching. The region is home to a vast array of marine life, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, and a variety of seabirds.

Visitors can take boat trips to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures and witness their natural behaviors in their natural habitat.

The Menai Strait is also a popular destination for foodies, with its abundance of fresh seafood, including mussels, oysters, and lobster. Many restaurants in the area offer delicious and locally sourced dishes that celebrate the unique flavors of the region.

As the tourism industry continues to grow, it is essential to ensure that visitors respect the fragile ecology of the Menai Strait and engage in sustainable practices. This includes following designated routes for hiking, boating and kayaking and disposing of waste responsibly.

ECONOMY IN THE STRAIT The Menai Strait is not only a natural wonder but also a vital part of the Welsh economy. Fishing is one of the most significant industries in the region, and the Menai Strait plays a crucial role in supporting local fishermen and their families.

The area is rich in marine life, including shellfish, lobsters, and sea bass, making it a prime location for fishing.

In addition to fishing, tourism is another essential industry in the Menai Strait, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

From paddleboarding to seafood restaurants, there's a wealth of businesses in the region that support the local economy. For example, Halen Mon is a world-renowned salt company that harvests sea salt from the waters of the Menai Strait. Their products are sold around the world and are a source of pride for the region.

The Menai Strait is also home to unique and exciting attractions, such as the Anglesey Sea Zoo, which showcases the diverse marine life of the region. The zoo plays an important role in education and conservation efforts, highlighting the need to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Menai Strait.

With its thriving fishing industry, tourism, and local businesses, the Menai Strait is a vital contributor to the Welsh economy. It is essential to protect this fragile ecosystem and ensure its sustainability for future generations to come.

Photo: @halenmon

WILDLIFE IN THE STRAIT The Menai Strait is a unique environment that boasts an exceptional array of marine life and is of significant ecological importance. The Strait connects the Irish Sea to the north and the Menai Bay to the south, forming a narrow and sheltered channel that is home to a rich and diverse range of marine species.

The Menai Strait is renowned for its remarkable sponge and sea worm populations. The area is home to over 50 species of sponges, which play an essential role in maintaining the ecological health of the region. Sponges are filter feeders, which means they filter the water and remove harmful particles, such as pollutants, heavy metals, and excess nutrients. The removal of these harmful particles helps to maintain water quality and sustain the diverse range of marine life in the Strait.

Sea worms are also a significant part of the marine ecosystem in the Menai Strait. The area is home to over 100 species of polychaetes, which are a type of segmented marine worm. These worms play an essential role in the nutrient cycle by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients into the water, which supports the growth of other marine organisms.

The Menai Strait is also home to a variety of fish species, including sea bass, mackerel, and herring, which are important commercial and recreational fishery resources. The area also provides an essential breeding and feeding ground for seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and cormorants, which nest on nearby cliffs and islands.

The unique ecology of the Menai Strait is heavily influenced by its geography and hydrodynamics.

The Strait's sheltered waters create an ideal environment for marine life to thrive, while the strong tidal currents and mixing of waters between the Irish Sea and Menai Bay bring in a rich supply of nutrients and support a diverse range of species.

VOICES OF THE MENAI LOCAL INSIGHT: CHALLENGES AND AFFECTION FOR THE MENAI STRAIT

PLIGHT OF THE MENAI MUSSELS

The Menai Strait is renowned for its extensive beds of mussels and other shellfish. The nutrient-rich waters and ideal conditions make it a prime location for the cultivation of these delicious delicacies. The Menai Strait is home to some of the largest and most significant mussel beds in Europe, which support an array of marine life.

However, the recent Brexit trade agreement has impacted the industry, as the sale of mussels from the Menai to Europe has been halted and reduced due to water quality impacts.

Before Brexit, the Menai Strait was a major exporter of mussels to the EU, with over 90% of its annual production being sold to countries such as France, Spain, and Italy.

However, with the new trade deal, the EU has imposed strict regulations on the import of live shellfish, including mussels, from non-EU countries, citing concerns over food safety standards.

This has had a significant impact on the Menai mussel industry, with many growers struggling to find alternative markets for their produce. The loss of this vital market has put the future of the industry in jeopardy, as many businesses rely on the sale of mussels to support their livelihoods.

Despite this setback, local businesses and authorities are working to find new markets and solutions to support the industry. They are exploring opportunities to sell their mussels within the UK and promote their high-quality produce to domestic consumers.

The Menai Strait's mussel industry is a vital part of the region's heritage and economy, and it is crucial to support it in these challenging times. With its unique environment and abundance of fresh seafood, the Menai Strait will continue to be a valuable asset for the local community and a popular destination for tourists.

IMPACT REPORT

What are the risks?

Our vision for the Menai Strait is to ensure that it remains a thriving and sustainable place for wildlife, business, and recreation for generations to come. Recognising the risks and challenges that the Strait faces, we are committed to tackling these issues head-on as a united community.

By shining a spotlight on these risks and working collaboratively, we aim to develop effective solutions that promote the long-term resilience and well-being of the Menai Strait and its surrounding communities.

Our shared commitment to sustainable management and conservation will help safeguard the unique ecological, social, and economic values of the Menai Strait, ensuring that it remains a cherished and viable resource for present and future generations to enjoy.

Rivers: Vectors Of Pollution Thirteen rivers, nine from the mainland and four from Ynys Môn (Anglesey), drain into the Menai Strait. While these rivers bring much-needed nutrients to the Strait, they can also act as vectors for toxic pollution. Research indicates that a small percentage of global rivers, just 1%, are responsible for a staggering 80% of ocean pollution.

In 2021, the Menai Strait witnessed a concerning number of Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) releases, with a total of 4,913 occurrences that lasted for a cumulative duration of 42,631 hours. CSO refers to untreated raw sewage that is released into the environment during heavy rain events, and it can have detrimental impacts on marine and freshwater ecosystems. This highlights the pressing need to address and mitigate the negative impacts of CSO releases on the Menai Strait and its delicate ecosystems.

01

The recent published data showed numerous CSO's in the South Menai mainland catchment with no CSO data. This is concerning as we can not ascertain the potential damage or level these CSO's are causing.

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

Water quality in the Menai Strait is generally good, with some sections achieving seasonal mussel classification ranging from B to A. However, further improvement is needed to achieve higher levels of water quality. It should be highlighted that the accuracy of water samples taken may be affected by the occurrence of Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) releases, resulting in poorer water quality entering from the 13 rivers that flow in to the Strait.

This inconsistency may prevent a consistent A classification throughout the mussel zones, thus highlighting the need for measures to be taken to address this issue and improve water quality. As a partnership forum, collaborative efforts are ongoing with stakeholders and relevant authorities to identify and address sources of pollution, including CSO releases. By continuously monitoring and improving water quality, the ecological integrity of the Strait can be protected, safeguarding its sustainability as a crucial resource for wildlife, businesses, and recreational activities.

Climate Change The impact of climate change and the likelihood of more frequent and more severe weather presents an evergreater challenge for every part of society.

This summer, the UK experienced record temperatures of 40.3C and six separate heatwave periods. The hottest ever day was recorded in North Wales in July 2022. The impacts of a changing climate will be felt first — and most dramatically — through our rivers and water resources. There is the potential for disaster at both ends of the scale: predictions suggest than the frequency and severity of both flooding and droughts will increase as our climate continues to heat up and weather patterns change.

Climate change has been at the forefront of environmental news with global temperature expected to increase by 1.5°C since pre industrial levels (IPCC). With an increase in temperature, sea levels have already increased by 104mm since 1994 according to Nasa. Climate change also brings an increase in extreme weather such as flooding and drought both have been in the UK news in the last few years. With the climate changing, North Wales’s infrastructure is under more pressure than ever to mitigate the changes.

In September 2022, Natural Resources Wales officers considered the effects of the rainfall on our waters and the local environment and stated there were significant concerns for the ecosystems and habitats, water supplies, land management and agriculture around the Anglesey, Dee and Clwyd catchments. Declaring a drought in these areas.

predicted flood risk maps

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on the Menai Strait, particularly in terms of rainfall and drought. As global temperatures continue to rise, the Menai Strait is likely to experience more intense rainfall events, leading to an increased risk of flooding and erosion along the coast. At the same time, climate change is also expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, which could have serious implications for water availability and biodiversity in the area.

The Menai Strait is an important habitat for a range of species, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, and changes to water availability and temperature could have significant impacts on these populations. In addition, the Menai Strait is a popular location for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports, and changes to the local environment could have economic impacts for the local community.

Land Use The land around the Menai Strait is used for catlle and sheep farming. In the post-Brexit era, farmers are required to expand their operations, which has led to the government's approval of previously banned chemicals. While these chemicals may assist farmers in their efforts to expand, they pose a significant threat to the wildlife in the Strait and its rivers as they leach into the watercourse.

Agricultural practices have a significant impact on water quality, primarily through the release of nutrients and chemicals such as pesticides into the water environment. The presence of microbiological organisms in manure can also lead to biological contamination. Furthermore, soil erosion and runoff exacerbate the problem by carrying sediment and other pollutants into the watercourse.

Climate change has also contributed to the degradation of water quality in the region. Intense rainfall events result in higher sediment loss from fields, which can lead to habitat loss and a process known as Eutrophication.

Eutrophication can result in the proliferation of invasive blooms, even in areas with significant tidal range like the Strait.

It is essential to take action to prevent further degradation of the water quality in the Strait and its surrounding rivers. This may include working to support farmers with more sustainable agricultural practices, reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and mitigating the impact of climate change. By doing so, we can protect the region's rich biodiversity and ensure its continued viability for future generations.

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

These chemicals and nutrients leach into the watercourse, leading to increased pollution and a reduction in water quality. The presence of microbiological organisms in manure can also lead to biological contamination, further exacerbating the problem.

The degraded water quality has a significant impact on the wildlife in the area. The increased pollution can lead to reduced oxygen levels, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic species to survive. Furthermore, the presence of harmful chemicals can be toxic to many different types of wildlife, from fish to birds and mammals that rely on the water for food or shelter.

Forever Chemicals Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that are highly persistent in the environment and have been detected in various ecosystems worldwide, including in the Menai Strait and its surrounding rivers.

PFAS can enter the water environment through several sources, including industrial discharge, firefighting foams, and wastewater treatment plants. Once released into the environment, they can accumulate in sediments, biota, and other organic matter, including microplastics.

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

Studies have shown that PFAS can have adverse effects on the wildlife in the Menai Strait and its surrounding rivers. For example, exposure to PFAS can result in developmental and reproductive problems in fish and other aquatic species. PFAS can also have negative impacts on the immune systems of wildlife, making them more vulnerable to disease.

In addition to the impact on wildlife, PFAS can also pose a potential risk to human health through the consumption of contaminated seafood. The presence of PFAS in the water environment can lead to the accumulation of these chemicals in fish and other seafood, which can ultimately end up on our plates.

LITTER Plastic has thousands of uses, its versatility and virtual indestructability practically unmatched in the world of synthetic materials.

Since first developing plastic in 1907, we have melded and moulded the material to fulfil our needs and desires. From bags and milk bottles to agriculture and transportation, plastic is everywhere, useful and convenient.

It isn't just large pieces that pose a threat, however - microplastics are in colossal quantities, sometimes in parts of the ocean that have never been seen by humans before.

Sadly 1 million sea birds and 100,000 mammals die every year from the affects of marine litter. This has to change.’

Sian Sykes

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

Litter can negatively impact the Menai Strait in various ways, such as affecting businesses that rely on the area, reducing property values and investment. It can also harm the tourism industry by detracting from the natural beauty of the area. Litter can also impact recreational activities, making them less enjoyable and posing a risk to public health.

Additionally, wildlife can suffer from the ingestion of litter or entanglement, leading to injuries or death.

INVASIVE SPECIES Invasive species can pose a significant threat to the biodiversity and ecology of the Menai Strait and the North Wales region as a whole. These species can outcompete native species for resources, such as food, water, and habitat, leading to a loss of biodiversity. This can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, such as the disruption of food webs, changes in nutrient cycling, and alterations to physical habitat.

Invasive species can also cause economic impacts on the region. For example, invasive species like the American signal crayfish can reduce the abundance of native crayfish and damage fisheries, leading to a loss of income for those who rely on these resources. Additionally, invasive species like the Japanese Knotweed can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, resulting in costly management and restoration efforts.

Climate change can exacerbate the impacts of invasive species by altering the timing of biological events, such as the timing of plant flowering, and changing environmental conditions. This can create new opportunities for invasive species to establish themselves in the region and outcompete native species.

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

The Menai Strait and its surrounding areas are at risk from invasive species, which can have significant impacts on the native wildlife and ecology. Invasive species are non-native plants and animals that are introduced to an ecosystem, either intentionally or unintentionally, and can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat.

One example of an invasive species in the Menai Strait is the Japanese Knotweed, a plant that can grow rapidly and cause damage to buildings, infrastructure, and native vegetation. Another example is the American signal crayfish, which can outcompete native crayfish and also carry a disease that is deadly to them.

Invasive species can have a range of negative impacts on the Menai Strait's ecology and economy, including the loss of biodiversity, damage to habitats, and reduced fisheries yields. Additionally, they can increase the cost of management and restoration efforts.

The Menai Strait need the community to help with early detection and rapid response programs and the use of biological control methods. It is essential to continue monitoring and managing invasive species to protect the native wildlife and preserve the ecological integrity of the Menai Strait for future generations.

The Inaugural Menai Strait Partnership Forum: Fostering Collaboration and Sustainability

The Menai Strait Partnership Forum brought over 65 members of the local community together on the 23rd of March to deliver an evening of bilingual expert talks from 7 individuals and organisations. Each shared the potential risk and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Menai Strait.

The Forum was dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of the Menai Strait for wildlife, recreation, and business. Through collaborative efforts, the Forum worked towards finding ways to address the issues and protect the ecological integrity of the Strait.

The belief that a better future for the Menai Strait was everyone's business drove the Forum's collective efforts. By working together, the Forum aimed to create positive impacts and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Menai Strait for the benefit of all stakeholders.

7 keynote speakers

66 Delegates

1 community forum established OUR CAUSE APPEARED ON 2 NATIONAL RADIO INTERVIEWS & NUMEROUS LOCAL PRESS.

Building Solutions

' A great opportunity to learn more about the issues facing the Strait and our community' Nerys J

keynote speakers

Alan Winstone Chairman oF MENAI STraIT FISHERIES ORDER MANAGEMENT Association

lAURA oWEN sANDERSON CEO nORTH wALES rIVERS tRUST

sian sykes psyched paddleboarding & plastic free anglesey

DR Lewis Le Vay Bangor University School of ocean sciences

keynote speakers

james wilson mussel fisherman and business' owner

REBEKAH BOOTH ANGLESEY SEA ZOO

RHUN AP IORWERTH politician and MS - Ynys Môn

watch the first forum meeting here

The Menai Strait Partnership Forum is a place for everyone 'The Menai Strait Partnership Forum is a place for everyone who cares about this important area to finally get together and not only discuss its current threats, but to collaborate on solutions. The success of the first event shows that there is a hunger for this type of forum in the community; people are keen to get connected and make a change. No one knows what local communities need better than locals, so with a place to gather and support from partners like MSFOMA and the North Wales Rivers Trust, amazing things are sure to happen.'

Aurora H

Building Solutions As part of our detailed research and education efforts on the issues facing the Menai Strait, we kicked off some engaging discussions before and after our Forum. These discussions were aimed at understanding the community's perspective on the challenges faced by the Strait and brainstorming potential solutions to fix them!

We wanted to make sure that everyone's voice was heard and that the community's insights were taken into account as we worked towards innovative solutions. Through lively conversations, we gathered valuable input and feedback on the environmental, social, and economic issues affecting the Menai Strait.

As part of our exciting research and education efforts on the issues facing the Menai Strait, we kicked off some engaging discussions before and after our Forum. These discussions were aimed at understanding the community's perspective on the challenges faced by the Strait and brainstorming potential solutions to fix them!

IMPACT- Pre forum questionaire

No Concerns 8%

At the launch of our online information platform, which aimed to provide the latest data and information on the Menai Strait and its surrounding land and rivers, a series of baseline questions were asked to the community to assess their perspective on the issues facing the Strait.

The results of the study indicated a notable level of concern among the community regarding the future of the Strait. Specifically, 92 percent of participants expressed apprehension about the future of the Strait, highlighting the pressing need for effective and immediate action.

This feedback reinforces the importance of collective efforts to increase awareness, engage the community, and drive innovative solutions to protect and preserve the Menai Strait. With such a high level of concern and commitment from the community, there is a great potential to work together towards a sustainable future for the Strait.

Concerned about the future 92%

The launch of our online platform and the baseline study represent essential steps in our ongoing efforts to ensure that the Menai Strait remains a viable and sustainable place for wildlife, recreation, and business.

The pre-questionnaire conducted as part of our baseline study revealed that the community's primary concern regarding the Menai Strait was sewage, with 45.5% of respondents expressing worry about this issue. Litter and climate change were the next most significant concerns, with 13.6% of participants expressing apprehension about these topics.

Other issues of concern included tourism pressures and chemicals and pesticide use, which were reported by a smaller percentage of participants.

These findings highlight the pressing need for action to address the sources of pollution and environmental degradation in the Menai Strait, such as reducing sewage and litter, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and promoting sustainable tourism and agriculture practices.

By addressing these concerns, we can work towards creating a more sustainable and resilient Menai Strait for the benefit of wildlife, recreation, and business, and for the community as a whole.

FORUM FEEDBACK The community's desire for increased education and community involvement in addressing the challenges facing the Menai Strait was a common theme in the forum feedback. This sentiment was reflected in the development of the Menai Strait Partnership Forum, which aims to bring together stakeholders to find innovative solutions to the issues facing the Strait.

Among the solutions suggested by the community were initiatives to: tackle agriculture pollution in the surrounding catchment.

CSO and sewage discharges.

Litter clean-ups.

Additionally, there was interest in exploring innovative approaches such as pilot studies to improve water quality and tackle climate related flooding and drought.

The FEEDBACK DEMONSTRaTED THAT THE TOP KEY OBJECTIVES FOR THE FORUM MOVING FORWARD WERE: 1) MORE EDUCATION ON THE ISSUES FACING THE MENAI STRAIT FOR THE WIDER COMMUNITY. 2) mORE cOMMUNITY iNVOLVEMENT IN BUILDING SOLUTIONS INCLUDING COMMUNITIES ALONG THE 13 RIVERS. 3) MORE NATURE BASED SOLUTIONS FOR FLOOD MANAGEMENT 4) MORE INTERVENTIONS TO TACKLE WATER QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY FROM POLLUTERS.

post forum questionaire The post-forum feedback questionnaire revealed that the community's primary focus was on the environment and community, with a desire for greater power to inform and influence government legislation on the key issues affecting the Menai Strait. Notably, the forum had a significant impact on the community's awareness and understanding of the issues at hand.

Regarding the post-forum survey results, sewage and water quality remained the top concern at 42.9%.

However, there was a noticeable increase in the proportion of the community expressing concern about climate-related issues such as flooding and drought, which rose to 19%. Additionally, the concern for agriculture and land use practices saw a considerable increase from 0% before the conference up to 14.3%. Litter remained in the top four key issues with a concern of 14.3%.

100% Concerned about the future of the Menai Strait 100%

The post-forum questionnaire revealed that people in the catchment area are increasingly concerned about the impact of land use and agricultural practices on the Menai Strait. Water quality, particularly with regards to sewage spills, remained the top concern. The keynote speeches highlighted the impact of flooding and drought on water quality, wildlife, and businesses, and it was clear that this was recognised as a significant risk for participants. Litter also remained a concern, with Plastic Free Anglesey campaigner Sian Sykes explaining the impact of flytipping on the Strait.

Voices of the People: A Community-Led Perspective on the Issues and Opportunities.

The community forum members were clear in their feedback about the direction they would like to see the Menai Strait Partnership Forum develop:-

45.8% OF THE COMMUNITY WANT TO SEE IMPROVEMENTS focused on improving THE water quality FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ECONOMY AND RECREATION. 29.2% WANT TO SEE THE FORUM ENGAGE WITH POLITICIANS,COUNCILS AND POLICY MAKERS TO CHANGE AND IMPROVE LEGISLATION FOR THE MENAI STRAIT ENVIRONMENT, RECREATION AND TOURISM 95.2% WANT TO SEE continued COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN PLANNING AND MOVING THE FORUM FORWARD through collaborative solutions.

WHERE NEXT? Here's our roadmap to success:

APRIL '23 Assemble a top-notch advisory team to represent all key areas and establish a rock-solid partnership agreement.

MAY '23 Develop plans under three core pillars.

JUNE '23 Rally the community to join our cause and host an exciting event to brainstorm creative solutions that safeguard the Menai Strait.

JUNE '23 Seek targeted grants and funds to turn THE MENAI STRAIT PARTNERSHIP FORUMS vision into reality

3 CORE PILLARS Our plan to protect the Menai Strait revolves around three key pillars: Economy, Environment, and Recreation.

ENVIRONMENT

ECONOMY

RECREATION

COASTAL MANAGEMENT

FOOD INDUSTRY

PUBLIC ACCESS

FRESHWATER

AQUACULTURE/ FISHERIES

ENVIRONMENTAL CODE

AGRICULTURE

AGRICULTURE

EDUCATION

BIODIVERISTY

TOURISM

PRESERVATION

URBAN

LAND USE LAND USE

Under Economy, we aim to promote sustainable economic growth, job creation, and community development, while also preserving cultural heritage and natural resources.

Under Environment, we focus on conservation and restoration of the Menai Straits coastal and river's ecosystems, protection of biodiversity, and implementation of responsible waste management practices.

Under Recreation, we strive to promote public access to water-based activities, develop parks and recreation areas, and foster community-led conservation and restoration projects, all while promoting environmental education and stewardship.

Our comprehensive approach under these three pillars aims to ensure a sustainable future for the Menai Strait, for both present and future generations.

MORE DETAILS AT : WWW.northwalesriverstrust.org/menaistrait

If you would like more information on our next event or any further details about getting involved then contact community lead:oisin@northwalesriverstrust.org Make sure you put MSPF in the subject header.

If you would like to be considered for a position on the MSPF advisory panel then email:laura@northwalesriverstrust.org Make sure you put MSPF in the subject header.