The beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast is a big draw for tourists and residents alike, many enjoying a boat trip or water sport in the stunning coastal environment. Now a new voluntary code of conduct is in place to ensure all recreational water users can minimise the disturbance to marine wildlife in the area without ruining their leisure time. The Pembrokeshire Marine Code is being launched on Sunday, May 29, with well- known wildlife TV presenter, Iolo Williams. The code has been designed and developed by local boat operators and consists of a simple set of guidelines for individual water users, while boat operators and dive clubs are provided with zoning maps for individual species along with detailed guidelines. Everyone can help by following the code. For example, if you want to go on a boat trip, you can use an operator who has had specialist training and knows how to keep wildlife disturbance to a minimum. This means the long-term future of the marine environment in Pembrokeshire is protected. You can also help as an individual water user, by keeping your distance and being aware of your surroundings. Fore more information on the Pembrokeshire Marine Code, contact Vicky Swales on 01646 696134 This is the code for individual recreational water users: • Be considerate. Keep your distance from marine wildlife and do not touch, feed or swim with it. You should also avoid hauling out or mooring close to young animals as this could distress nearby parent animals and prevent them feeding or approaching. • Keep your distance and an even speed. Stay at least 100 metres away from marine wildlife and nesting/breeding sites where possible and remain no longer than 15 minutes. You should also avoid erratic movements and changes in speed. • Think about where you are going. Try to steer clear of cliffs, gullies and enclosed bays as many wildlife species use these areas to breed. • React to what is around you. Allow marine wildlife to go where they want. If they approach your watercraft you should remain on steady course and maintain a safe, navigable speed. • Protect what you see. Help to look after marine wildlife by avoiding unnecessary noise. If you observe deliberate disturbance or harassment of wildlife, report it to the Police Marine Unit on 01646 621162. If possible, take photographs or video the incident and write a description of what you have seen. By following the code you will help ensure Pembrokeshire's wildlife is protected. You will also reduce the risk of committing an offence. Boat operators have more specific zoning maps and individual species guidelines, tailored to their particular area.
