Trawling in the Vicinity of Nord Stream Will Be Possible
Nov. 30, 2007 | Zug | Nord Stream today held a seminar with fishermen’s associations and authorities from Sweden and Denmark in Malmö, Sweden. Several presentations addressed the possible impact of the planned natural gas pipeline on fish and fisheries. Discussions among expert attendees, including marine biologists, lawyers, engineers, fishermen and authorities, revealed that as soon as the construction process is finished, trawling over the pipeline would generally be possible. Restrictions imposed during the construction process would be lifted afterwards. Impact on fish stocks through e.g. noise and sediment plumes will occur temporarily only during pipe-laying activities. The seminar was attended by roughly 25 people from the concerned regions in both countries.
“Nord Stream strives to keep the impact on fishery as small as possible. We plan to discuss every step in close coordination with the concerned fishermen’s associations,” stated Dr. Dirk von Ameln, Permitting Director Nord Stream AG.
Jesper Juul Larsen, Chairman of Esbjergs Fishermen’s Association from the Danish North Sea coast, shared experiences from similar projects that proved successful for both fishermen and the offshore industry. Larsen’s formula for success: no severe restrictions, dialogue and, most importantly, information exchange. Additionally, Robert Misund, Norwegian Board of Fisheries, and Jarle Kolle, StatoilHydro, provided insights on Norwegian experience with trawling in the vicinity of pipelines. Due to the large number of offshore pipelines constructed and operated in the vicinity of its coasts, Norwegian authorities found methods to accommodate the needs of the fishing industry and high-profile energy projects, such as advising involved parties on technological best practice.
Dr. Dirk von Ameln and Luigino Vitali, engineer and fishery expert from Snamprogetti, profiled the possible impact during construction and operation of the pipeline. During construction, a temporary safety zone in the works zone will need to be delineated. Once the pipeline begins operation, smaller, permanent safety zones may be necessary. However, trawling in general will be possible and not be adversely affected.
Throughout the course of the project, Nord Stream will intensify the contacts with the fishery associations to work out solutions that are in the interest of both fishermen and the countries needing gas transported by Nord Stream to meet their energy requirements.
