The MBA and University of Plymouth are currently engaged on a collaborative project funded by English Nature 'The application of biological-effects tools to inform the condition of European Marine Sites'. The overall aim of this work is to evaluate the feasibility and value of applying a rapid, cost-effective set of biological-effects measurements (biomarkers) on SAC designated features in England, which can then be deployed on a 6-yearly cycle. Ultimately, these tools will be used alongside ecological and other environmental (chemical) data to inform English Nature's condition assessment and advice to Government. Follow this link for further information

South West Marine Science Forum 'update sessions' : The SW Marine Science Forum hosted a couple of 'update sessions' in conjunction with the ECSA (Estuarine & Coastal Sciences Association) local meeting at the University of Plymouth, 6-8 April 2005 (see � Courses, Events and Conferences' ) .  

A further workshop is planned for November 2006 - details will be announced soon.

Recent developments include a NERC award under the �Knowledge Transfer' scheme. This scheme is aimed at aiding communication between the science base, industry and public sector organisations.

Key objectives for the SW Marine Science Forum under this scheme are:

1: To develop a viable platform for communication of research results and opinion on addressing water quality issues between the academic community in the South West and the user community (public agencies and industry).

Develop and expand SW Marine Science Forum

Form a core steering group to set objectives and focus on key issues

Develop an independent web-site for increasing communications

Report on key issues, limitations and research requirements

Hold annual conferences to discuss major themes and plan pilot project

2: To establish a central repository for information on SW Marine Sites and develop a GIS system to visualise and define the range of anthropogenic impacts as a future management tool

Collate physical, chemical and biological data in order to establish a better-integrated management system

- Produce GIS-based resource atlas on the ecological status of the Fal & Helford, outputs to include chemical and biological effects assessments; distribution and condition of habitats and species, information on biological changes evident from historic data; physical processes within the site.

3: To develop and implement a pilot project in one of the sites (the Fal and Helford cSAC)