NO-REGRETS Fieldwork begins!

The NO-REGRETS project recently concluded its inaugural survey, involving our early career scientists Janneke de Bresser (PhD, University of Groningen) and Jet Carabain (PhD, Wageningen University) in collaboration with Lina de Nijs (Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association) and Bram Couperus (Wageningen Marine Research). This fieldwork was provided by our project partners Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association).

The research primarily focused on monitoring changes in both biological and anthropogenic soundscapes through the use of sensitive hydrophones, allowing for a detailed assessment of how the acoustic environment shifts within wind farm boundaries. In tandem with these acoustic observations, the project analyzes the ecology of small pelagic fish to determine if offshore structures influence species composition or act as an attractant for schools of herring and sprat.

By integrating these findings with advanced spatial mapping and active acoustic transects -a technique similar to bat echolocation- the team can accurately track fish school density and movement. This integrated approach provides a comprehensive view of the ecological dynamics surrounding offshore wind energy developments and marks a significant first step in investigating the spatial distribution of marine life in these changing environments.