PhD research
UK whelk fisheries have become increasingly important to the UK shellfish fleet, with an annual turnover of £15.1–27.3 million between 2018 and 2023. Despite their economic significance, whelks are considered a data-deficient species, with no standardized approach to data collection or stock assessment.
Following the UK's departure from the Common Fisheries Policy, there is an opportunity to reprioritize fisheries management. The 2018 Fisheries White Paper and the Fisheries Act 2020 commit the UK to developing effective methods for the sustainable management of non-quota stocks. Due to concerns about the sustainability of the whelk fishery, it has been designated a top priority in the development of Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) that intend to achieve these policy objectives.
Given the current data limitations, managers will need to rely on input-based measures to regulate fishing effort, such as restrictions on pot numbers, gear modifications, or minimum landing sizes. These measures will impact both whelk populations and the livelihoods dependent on the resource. To assess the potential benefits and drawbacks before implementation, this PhD aims to develop a bioeconomic model that will enable managers to make responsible, informed decisions, supporting the transition to an analytical stock assessment.
