In order to assess the likely environmental impact of the development of renewable energy schemes around the Orkney Islands, the Scottish Government commissioned Marine Scotland Science to map relevant areas of the seabed. MSS subsequently requested Scottish Natural Heritage to provide commentary on the conservation status of species and habitats in the area. This study provided a description of the habitats observed by video during a survey carried out by MSS in 2009. The aim was to inform SNH and MSS on the habitats and species of the area, with a view to assessing their conservation importance.
See also 2008 corresponding survey: dad19c700b0445839c274631c2f3e163.