News
New scheme launched to record underwater finds and protect the UK’s marine heritage
A scheme to help protect the nation’s marine heritage by encouraging the recording of archaeological and historical objects found by marine users in English and Welsh waters was launched at the British Museum in London yesterday (Thursday 21 July).
Called the Marine Antiquities Scheme (MAS), it is a joint initiative funded by The Crown Estate, modelled on The British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme for onshore finds, and managed by Wessex Archaeology.
The scheme evolved from the realisation that each year divers, fishermen, recreational boat users and other coastal visitors discover many interesting objects and sites while at sea but until now had no way to centrally record them for the wider public benefit.
As part of the scheme, a support team comprised of archaeological experts will research each of the finds submitted to find out more about its origins and history. The information will be published on a public database that is available for all to access.
The database provides opportunities for wider research and awareness as it is openly accessible to anyone interested in learning more about the history hidden under the waves.
Central to the Marine Antiquities Scheme is a simple-to-use app that makes recording finds an easy process and gives finders immediate feedback as well as instructions on their statutory obligations, including the need to report any wreck to Receiver of Wreck.
The app is available to download now from relevant app stores for iOS and Android phones and tablets.
The Crown Estate’s Matt Clear said: “The Marine Antiquities Scheme provides a way to record all types of underwater finds and at the same time it will help to both protect and improve the knowledge of our shared underwater cultural heritage.
“The scheme mirrors the highly successful onshore recording initiative, the Portable Antiquities Scheme, which has proved hugely successful with more than one million objects recorded since its inception in 1997.
“Given its location, people often don’t realise how much activity happens on the seabed, from renewable energy through to cables, pipelines and aggregate extraction. As active managers of this natural resource, we have funded MAS through our stewardship programme to secure the future of our marine heritage whilst also supporting its responsible and sustainable development over the long-term.”
The MAS app allows users to locate, record and submit information about archaeological material discovered anywhere within English or Welsh waters from the Mean Low Water Level.
They can also do it on-line via an electronic recording form located on the scheme’s website www.marinefinds.org.uk.
Chris Bayne, Chief Executive Officer of Wessex Archaeology said: “The Marine Antiquities Scheme provides a means for people to take a truly active part in front line research into our past and allows them to make real contributions towards the understanding and the preservation of our marine heritage.
“Users will benefit from the very best expert knowledge available and will have free, open access to the most up to date information. It will be fascinating to see what people do with this capability in the future.”
Michael Lewis, Head of Portable Antiquities and Treasure at the British Museum said: “The Portable Antiquities Scheme has been a tremendous success, ensuring that many thousands of archaeological finds discovered by the public are recorded and add to our knowledge of Britain’s past.
“We hope that the Marine Antiquities Scheme can emulate this success, preserving the record of marine heritage for the future.”
Photos: Image of the Marine Antiquities Scheme app home page and an Admiralty telescope manufactured by W. Ottway and Co. for the War Office discovered in the south coast region.
Gear News
Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
Whether you are a beginner or a professional diver – with the three new main regulators from DYNAMICNORD, everyone will find their favourite regulator. They all look super stylish.
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Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
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Marine Life & Conservation
Paul Watson Released as Denmark Blocks Japan’s Extradition Bid
Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
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