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Manx Wildlife Trust and Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch sign Memorandum of Understanding.

Graham Makepeace-Warne

Today, Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) and Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch (MWDW) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The two organisations want to work together more effectively for the Manx marine environment and the conservation of marine megafauna.

As an Island nation, the Isle of Man has a host of marine species that visit our seas throughout the year. The most recognisable of these are the cetaceans and throughout the spring and summer months, many dolphins, whales and porpoises are seen all around the Island’s coast.

MWT and MWDW, through this MoU, aim to collaborate and work closely in the areas of marine conservation and through education and engagement with the marine environment. Citizen science is a big part of monitoring these magnificent species and both organisations will work together on the collection of data for marine megafauna whilst also helping to achieve the goals of the Isle of Man Biosphere.

The MoU, signed at the MWDW visitor centre in Peel, was signed on behalf of MWT by Leigh Morris, CEO, and Dr Lara Howe the Marine Conservation Officer. Lara was unable to attend on the day as  she was assisting the wardens with their return to the Calf for the remainder of the season. Leigh commented ‘The marine environment is a key part of our remit so we’re delighted to be working even more closely with MWDW.’ He continued, ‘At MWT we want to support other more specialist conservation NGO’s on Island to enable them to deliver the best possible outcome for wildlife.’ 

Signing on behalf of MWDW were Jen Adams, Secretary, and Bryony Manley, a MWDW Trustee. Jen said ‘we’re thrilled to be building on our relationship with MWT so we can work together to really get across our messages about marine conservation.’ And Bryony remarked ‘It’s important for nature conservation to have a joined-up message and for the different organisations to work together for the benefit of biodiversity in the Isle of Man’.

Both organisations are looking forward to working together more closely in the future around some of the Island’s most recognised and treasured visitors.

MWT are keen to work more closely with a range of organisations and groups across the Isle of Man to champion conservation and look at ways in which wildlife and the environment can support other sectors through a more synergistic approach.