High tech survey of north coast sea bed gets under way

The first detailed seabed survey of inshore waters off the north coast since Victorian times is now under way.

Survey vessels using sophisticated echo sounding technology are sweeping waters between Malin Head in County Donegal and Fair Head in Country Antrim. The data gained will be used to provide more accurate maps and to study the topography of the sea floor.

The bathymetric survey, as it is known, is being co-ordinated by the DoE’s Environment and Heritage Service in partnership with the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Marine Institute of the Republic of Ireland. It has been awarded funding of €2,133,408 from the EU INTERREG Progamme.

Environment Minister Arlene Foster said that the survey would provide a basis for more accurate nautical charts. She said:

“It is remarkable to think that the last time these coastal waters were surveyed the technology used was lead lines lowered to the sea floor and positioning was by sextant reading. Now, thanks to the EU funding, we will have the benefit of modern technology and world class expertise.

“The results will be shared on an east-west and north-south basis for the benefit of all users of this maritime area. They will contribute towards increased safety for commercial and recreational sailors and fishermen and an enhanced knowledge of the biological, geological and archaeological features of this underwater area.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The EU Interreg IIIA Programme addresses the economic and social disadvantages which can result from the existence of a border. It does this by promoting the creation of cross border networks involving and benefiting local communities. The programme covers all of Northern Ireland and the six border counties of Ireland.
2. Members of the public may see the survey vessels sailing close inshore or “mowing the lawn” (the phrase used to describe the series of parallel tracks required to ensure total coverage of the seabed).
3. Pictures of one of the survey vessels and a chart showing the area surveyed to date are available from DoE Press Office on 028 90540014
4. Media contacts

Maritime and Coastguard Agency Press Office: +44 (0)2380 329414Marine Institute Contact Press Office: +353 (0)91 387 200

Department of the Environment(NI) – 02890 540014. out-of-hours call EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 076 9971 5440.