JG20 participants. Photo © ASCOBANS Secretariat.
From 13 to 15 March 2024, Zandvoort, Netherlands, was the host to the 20th Meeting of the ASCOBANS Jastarnia Group, a gathering aimed at advancing the conservation of the harbour porpoise in the Baltic. This annual meeting brought together members of the Steering Group for the ASCOBANS Recovery Plan for Baltic Harbour Porpoises, commonly known as the Jastarnia Plan, alongside representatives working on the Conservation Plan for the Harbour Porpoise Population in the Western Baltic, the Belt Sea, and the Kattegat.
The Jastarnia Group serves as a forum for reviewing the progress of these action plans, sharing information on complementary initiatives, and fostering the implementation of effective conservation strategies. Over the course of the meeting, various action points were discussed, emphasizing the need for robust funding and research to ensure the sustainability of the harbour porpoise populations.
One of the key discussions highlighted the importance of securing national funding for regular SAMBAH surveys, which are vital for monitoring porpoise populations in the region. Additionally, the group emphasized the need for countries to prepare a BALTFISH Joint Recommendation that includes effective bycatch mitigation measures outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
National progress reports were presented by representatives from Denmark, Finland, Germany, Lithuania, and Sweden, showcasing the collective efforts undertaken in their respective countries. Sweden provided an update on its fishing efforts, reflecting a proactive approach to balancing fisheries with conservation needs. The meeting featured a variety of presentations, including research on the population assignment of harbour porpoises in the North and Baltic Sea using whole genome data. This research sheds light on the genetic diversity and distribution of these populations, informing conservation strategies.
Moreover, the use of acoustic reflectors in set nets as a potential bycatch mitigation measure was explored, offering promising insights into reducing accidental catches of harbour porpoises. However, the latest research presented at the meeting raised urgent concerns regarding the vulnerable Belt Sea harbour porpoise population, which has exceeded mortality limits and is facing a significant decline.
Looking ahead, the Jastarnia Group expressed commitment to maintaining momentum in their conservation efforts. The next meeting is scheduled to take place on 11-12 March 2025, continuing the dialogue and collaboration essential for safeguarding the future of the harbour porpoise in the Baltic Sea and beyond.
A joint session with the ASCOBANS North Sea Group was organised at the beginning of the meeting, and focused on bycatch, offshore renewable energy, underwater noise, and population assignment of harbour porpoises in North and Baltic Sea using whole genome data. The presentations are available on the meeting page.
The report of JG20 will be available online in due course.
Last updated on 18 December 2024