Jersey Marine Park

The UK dependency of Jersey, off the north-west coast of France, controls 2,455 sq. km of territorial sea. The island’s unique marine ecology supports more than 3,000 animal and plant species, in habitats ranging from kelp forests, seagrass and maerl beds to gravel and sand beds. The area is home to some of the most diverse clam beds in Northern Europe, and to huge 12-metre tides that create 30 sq. km of inter-tidal area at each low ebb. This rocky zone and its outlying reefs contain flooded gully and waterfall habitats found nowhere else in the region. Jersey’s waters are also rich in sites of cultural, archaeological and historical significance. 

However, more than 93 per cent of Jersey’s seabed is unprotected, with only 6.5 per cent designated as marine protected areas (MPAs). In 2022, the island’s government began to develop a Jersey Marine Spatial Plan (JMSP), and, in October 2023, it announced a proposal to create a Marine Park by expanding the MPAs to cover 30 per cent of territorial waters.   

This marked Jersey’s first ambition towards the goal of 30 by 30, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver meaningful marine protection. If achieved, it could make Jersey the fourth most protected marine territory in the world.  

Blue Marine’s campaign for a marine park has been integral in persuading the government of Jersey to propose the measures. We have been active in Jersey since 2018, initially supporting a PhD to monitor the island’s existing MPAs. Much of Blue Marine’s research has contributed to the evidence base that underpins the JMSP.  

From 2021, our local team of two has been based on the island, engaging with the fishing industry, educating local communities and children, partnering with government and local organisations, and leading local research to help inform better management. Our ‘snorkel trail’ and low-impact seafood initiatives have also helped to strengthen the sustainable use of Jersey’s seas.  

Fishing is a core part of Jersey’s heritage, and many key commercial species rely on healthy habitats to feed, breed and thrive. The proposed Marine Park will protect habitats, improve biodiversity and help to secure the long-term health of commercial fishery species.   

Low-impact fisheries such as potting, rod and line, netting and scallop diving will benefit from having safe spaces to operate. Marine Park status could also draw in tourism while providing branding opportunities for local sustainable seafoods. Perhaps most importantly, the protection of these habitats can also help to mitigate climate change.