Demonstrators gather in Augustenborg to advocate for fishing ban in Augustenborg Fjord

This afternoon, the crew of the mussel fishing boat Thyra encountered a large group of demonstrators at the port in Augustenborg, which included local anglers and the mayor. They share a common goal of advocating for a ban on bottom-trawling in Augustenborg Fjord. Recent research from Aarhus University indicates that this type of fishing increases the risk of oxygen depletion in the water.

Among the demonstrators was Lilli Hansen, who attended the protest with her son, father, and grandfather to express their dissatisfaction with the mussel fishing practices impacting the fjord. As the sun set, Hansen and her family displayed signs depicting the decline of fish stocks in the fjord over four generations. Hansen noted that her father and grandfather were commercial fishers, who can no longer continue fishing due to diminishing fish populations, a situation she attributes to the ongoing mussel dredging.

The Thyra, belonging to Wittrup Seafood, was legally docked and permitted to fish blue mussels in the fjord. Co-owner Stig Wittrup mentioned that the vessel adheres to strict environmental regulations and does not operate too close to the shore to protect essential seagrass ecosystems.

Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke acknowledged the protesters’ concerns and stated that negotiations are underway to establish Denmark’s first marine national parks, aimed at banning all bottom-dragging gear in Augustenborg Fjord.

Wittrup defended his fishing methods, arguing that halting local fisheries could lead to increased imports from countries with potentially lower environmental standards. He emphasized that Augustenborg Fjord has so far not experienced oxygen depletion, but the community remains worried that current practices could threaten its health.