Extensive report into Burry Inlet cockle deaths finds pollution is not to blame

A three-year investigation into the cockle deaths that damaged the fishery in the Burry Inlet has concluded that pollution is not to blame.

In one of the most in-depth studies of its kind, the Welsh Government-commissioned investigation looked at all the possible causes for the mortalities that have damaged the industry since 2002.

The study, led by experts from Hull University, ruled out the vast majority of possible causes of the mortalities. The report concluded that a combination of parasites, over-crowding and conditioning of the cockles after spawning is likely to have contributed to the mortalities.

The Agency wants to recognise the invaluable input from the cockle working group that includes scientists, regulators, the cockle industry and community representatives in compiling the report. The next step is for all concerned to draw up a management plan which will include specific measures to overcome the likely causes of the mortalities. Once agreed, the plan should give the industry the tools it will need to hopefully manage the fishery and start to minimise the risk of cockle mortalities occurring in the future.

The report has been handed to the Welsh Government, who will also review the proposed management plan when completed, to support the aim of creating a sustainable cockle fishery in the Burry Inlet. The study was funded by the Welsh Government and Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science).

Chris Mills, Director, Environment Agency Wales, said: “This report is another step in the effort to re-establish the Burry Inlet cockle fishery as a sustainable and viable industry for the people who fish here – but at the same time protect sufficient the cockles for the important bird life in this Special Area of Conservation.”

“This study is the starting point for a management plan for the industry to tackle the causes of these mortalities. We will now work with the cocklers to draft this management plan and give them the opportunity to regain control over their fishery and its future.”

“We want to thank all those who have worked so hard and contributed to this study, including the local industry, who are working with us to find a long term solution to return this fishery to its former glory.”

Environment Minister, John Griffiths said: “I would like to thank Environment Agency Wales for coordinating this important investigation around the mortality of cockles in the Burry Inlet. I know it has been a very emotive issue and it is positive that there is no evidence to link water quality to the cause of the mortality of cockles.”

“The Welsh Government will now consider the findings of the report in full and will work closely with Environment Agency Wales and local communities to ensure the ongoing and sustainable management of the cockle beds.”

Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Alun Davies said: “I welcome the report. It is good news that the water quality has been ruled out because it means we are a step closer to finding the root cause of the mortality of cockles and to addressing the issue that has affected the livelihoods of the cockle gatherers for some time.”

“I will consider the report in detail and hope we can now work together with the cockle gatherers to find a way to manage the cockle beds in a way that is sustainable for the future.”