Last updated: 18 January, 2026 @ 11:01
The famous Poole clam and cockle fishery is flying high — literally — after scooping a top national sustainability award for its pioneering use of drone technology to protect shellfish stocks.
The Poole Harbour Clam and Cockle Fishery has won the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Ocean Leadership Award, announced at a glittering ceremony at Edinburgh’s Signet Library.
The award recognises outstanding leadership in sustainable seafood — and Poole’s innovative approach has set a new benchmark for small-scale, sustainable fisheries across the UK.
Seafood tradition meets technology
Since the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (SIFCA), which manages and regulates the fishery, introduced the drones in 2022.
The move has transformed its officers’ ability to detect and deter illegal fishing across a complex estuarine system with sensitive habitats.
Pia Bateman, CEO of Southern IFCA, said the award reflects collaboration and innovation across the community:
“This award reflects the hard work, collaboration and innovation shown by everyone involved in the Poole Harbour Clam and Cockle Fishery,” she said.
“This technology has not only strengthened protections of sensitive marine habitats but also helped to champion and showcase responsible fishing practice, which ultimately ensures that the fishery continues to meet the highest sustainability standards set by the MSC.
“This initiative demonstrates how cutting-edge technology can be responsibly applied in small-scale fisheries to achieve world-class outcomes.
“It shows that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, and that where the right management tools are coupled with community stewardship, inshore fisheries management can lead the way globally.”
‘A beacon of sustainable fishing’
The drones provide the SIFCA with advanced imaging that aids both enforcement and research work.
They have become a fast-response tool especially in ‘difficult to access’ areas of the coastline and at night.
They are now an essential tool for enforcement, protection and research and have been instrumental in successful fisheries prosecutions.
For the 45 permit holders who work Poole Harbour’s clam and cockle grounds, the drone initiative has been a game-changer, helping keep the fishery fair, legal, and sustainable.
Incredible clams and cockles
Alex Holdgate, MSC Fisheries Outreach Manager UK and Ireland, said: “By integrating drones into fisheries management at this small-scale fishery, Southern IFCA has delivered a modern, innovative and highly effective approach that ensures the Poole Harbour Clam and Cockle Fishery continues to meet the highest sustainability standards.
“This initiative is a model of fantastic leadership on fisheries management and a blueprint for other fisheries worldwide.
“Importantly, it helps support the ongoing certification of the fishery, which provides incredible clams and cockles for UK consumers to enjoy, safe in the knowledge that they are from a sustainable source.”
Famous Poole clams and cockles
Cockle fishing has taken place in Poole since the 1900s and in 2018, the Poole Harbour Clam and Cockle Fishery was the first fishery in Dorset to receive MSC certification.
The fishery provides income for 45 permits holders in Poole Harbour, as represented by the Poole and District Fisherman’s Association, who work collaboratively with SIFCA to support and promote the sustainable fishery.
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