In-field Recordings of Adds and Risk-Based Mapping of Potential Impacts to Target and Non-Target Species

Descriptions

The use of Acoustic Deterrent Devices (ADDs) at fish farms to deter seals is common practice in the coastal regions of the west coast of Scotland. This practice aims to reduce stress to farmed fish and damage to nets and livestock. Other non-target species are potentially impacted by this practice, and those of greatest concern are whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans). One key knowledge gap lies in noise level measurements of the devices in the real-world and how the sound emitted from these devices propagates into the marine environment. With a better understanding of this, through gathering in-field sound/acoustic recordings, it would allow for a more robust assessment of the potential for impact to target (seals) and non-target (cetaceans) species through risk-based mapping approaches. The tenderer will undertake in-field sound/acoustic recordings of ADDs at an enclosed inlet / bay and an open water site, neither of which should be associated with an existing / operational fish farm. These recordings will be used to back-calculate source levels of ADDs and to produce risk-based maps for marine mammals.