Fears for Lincolnshire wildlife and habitats after collision of tankers in North Sea
The Lincolnshire coast and its wildlife could be at risk from toxic chemicals after the collision of two tankers in the North Sea.
Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust has expressed concerns about the impact of the chemicals on seals, seabirds and habitats around the north of the county following yesterday’s tanker crash.
Cargo ship, The Solong, and the Stena Immaculate, a chemical tanker which was carrying jet fuel for the US military, were involved in a collision in The Humber Estuary yesterday morning (Monday, March 10).
Head of conservation, Tammy Smally, said the wildlife trust is monitoring the situation.
She said: “We are keeping a close eye on the situation, including the potential for pollution, and will work with the relevant marine authorities as is needed.
“The north Lincolnshire coast is at risk, including the Humber Estuary and the Lincolnshire Coronation Coast National Nature Reserve, which includes Donna Nook and Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes and was designated by King Charles III in 2023.
“The area is home to internationally important populations of seabirds and seals, and fragile habitats including saltmarsh, mudflats and seagrass meadows.
“Depending on wind direction and contaminants, we are also concerned about the Silver Pit farther offshore – a unique habitat for fish where seabirds and cetaceans feed. Much of the Lincolnshire coast offshore is within marine protected areas for habitat features such as sub-tidal sand dunes.
“Although the grey seals at Donna Nook are not currently pupping, the seals including juveniles are still in the area. They haul out on sand banks offshore and feed in the wider North Sea area.”
The population of seals at Donna Nook is already under pressure as last season’s numbers were down by about a quarter.
It is unclear what the cause of the decrease is, but it is suspected to be part of a wider slump across the entire east coast.
A statement issued by East Lindsey District Council leader Craig Leyland said: “Following the collision of the two ships in the North Sea yesterday, I know residents will be deeply concerned for those involved and the potential impacts of this on our coastline and communities.
“Humber Local Resilience Forum are leading the response to this incident. Colleagues from partner agencies across Lincolnshire are attending these meetings together with ELDC officers and offering mutual aid where appropriate.
“We know that our residents, especially those along the coast, will be worried about the potential impact of the collision as both ships were carrying dangerous cargos. Pollution could impact public health, the marine habitat, our beaches and local wildlife.
“The Humber LRF and the government agencies involved are aware of these concerns and we will, of course, share any updates from those agencies involved as more information becomes available and as the response and recovery progresses.
“Finally, I am sure you will join me in extending our sincere thanks to all those who have responded to this incident. This is an ongoing complex and dangerous situation and we must acknowledge the bravery of those who head towards the danger at times like these. Those individuals reflect the best of our local communities.”
