Scottish Seals 
The Scottish Government has responsibility for the conservation and management of seal populations in Scottish waters on the basis of independent scientific advice provided by the Natural Environment Research Council's Special Committee on Seals.
Scottish Seals Forum
In October 2002 a Scottish Seals Forum was established to bring together stakeholders with an interest in seal issues. The Forum provides an opportunity to exchange information relevant to the conservation and management of Scottish seal populations and is supported by a Working Group which carries forward the work of the Forum between meetings.
Annual Advice on Seal Populations
Under the Conservation of Seals Act 1970, the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has a duty to provide scientific advice to government on matters related to the management of seal populations. NERC has appointed the Special Committee on Seals (SCOS) to formulate this advice.
This advice is given annually based on the latest scientific information provided to SCOS by the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU). SMRU also provides to government scientific reviews of applications for licences to shoot seals, along with information and advice in response to parliamentary questions and correspondence.
The annual report form SCOS consists of general information on Scottish seals, information on their current status, seal survey techniques, and addresses questions raised by the Scottish Government (in collaboration with the Scottish Seals Forum). The latest SCOS advice can be found at the following link.
Moray Firth Seal Management Plan
The Moray Firth Seal Management Plan is the first strategic attempt to address the whole issue of the impact of seal predation on salmon fisheries in a co-ordinated way. It will seek to answer many outstanding questions, in particular, the extent to which seals affect salmonid fisheries and whether this can be effectively addressed through focused seal management. Further information about the plan (including Questions & Answers) can be found at the dedicated site.
top