Dr David Walton is closely involved in developing plans for the management of South Georgia. Since it is not covered by the Antarctic Treaty special legal protection is needed. This is an exciting opportunity for BAS to use our expertise, along with others, to assist the South Georgia Government in developing a successful management plan. For example, we are looking at research to improve the management of the sustainable commercial fishery, especially important as illegal catches of patagonian toothfish elsewhere in the Southern Ocean jeopardises the future of this species. We need to look at how we protect scientifically important sites while still allowing access to South Georgia and develop policies for managing introduced species like reindeer.
Modern conservation needs more scientific management.
15 minutes West, and is approximately 170 km long by 2-30 km wide. It was a centre for Southern Ocean whaling industry until the end of the whaling era in 1965. Grytviken whaling station is now a museum and important tourist attraction. Administrative matters at South Georgia are dealt with by a Marine Officer based at King Edward Point. The British Antarctic Survey is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council and is responsible for the majority of the UK Government's research in Antarctica.