Wadden Sea Seal Management Plan 2023-2027

The Seal Management Plan (SMP) is an instrument of the WSSA, providing conservation and management recommendations for the seal population based on the latest scientific knowledge. The SMP contains a comprehensive set of actions on research and monitoring, taking of seals, habitat protection, pollution, and the increase of public awareness which are or are to be undertaken by the three Wadden Sea states to achieve the goals of the WSSA. It is an essential instrument that seeks a balance between conservation and economic development and management of the area.

Every five years the plan is revised to meet the ongoing as well as new challenge of protecting the seals of the Wadden Sea. In 2022, the Expert Group Marine Mammals, in collaboration with the Task Group Management and relevant management authorities, provided recommendations for a new management plan.

This publication should be cited as: Common Wadden Sea Secretariat (2022) Wadden Sea Seal Management Plan 2023-2027. Common Wadden Sea Secretariat, Wilhelmshaven, Germany.