Derry set to host major marine science conference

Loughs Agency is set to host the highly anticipated SeaMonitor-STRAITS Conference, which takes place at the picturesque Guildhall in the heart of Derry.

The two-day conference takes place this Thursday (23rd) and Friday (24th February).

This event offers an exciting opportunity for the SeaMonitor project partners, led by Loughs Agency, to share their findings and showcase the benefits of tracking aquatic life in our seas and rivers.

The project has utilised state-of-the-art acoustic telemetry equipment to track a range of marine species, including salmon, seals, basking sharks, cetaceans, and skate.

This two-day conference will provide a platform for the team to present their findings and highlight the importance of tracking these species for conservation and management purposes and will be attended by an international delegation of almost 100 marine scientists, academics, and political representatives.

The SeaMonitor Conference will also serve as the official launch of the STRAITS project, which has received funding from the European Union as part of the Horizon 2030 Initiative.

The project aims to continue the work of SeaMonitor and ensure the landmark counter in the North Channel is redeployed and integrated with other major counters across Europe through collaboration with the European Tracking Network (ETN).

In addition to Loughs Agency, SeaMonitor project partners include Atlantic Technological University, Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute, Marine Institute, University College Cork, Queen’s University Belfast, University of Glasgow, University of California (David), and Ocean Tracking Network.

Further information and content about the conference will be available on the Loughs Agency website and social media platforms.