On Friday, benthic surveys, which involve filming the seabed and collecting sand samples to examine the flora, fauna and marine life in the sand, were begun, and will continue while the weather holds. The company is using a high-resolution camera that will record the life living in the top layer of sand. All of the above information will be the subject of several months laboratory work.
Also, Saturday saw the start of the vibrocore survey which is being carried out by the specialist 24 metre survey vessel, “MV Flatholm” which is owned and operated by Cornish company Coastline Surveys Ltd. This work involves collecting core samples of sand from beneath the seabed, which will primarily be used to assess more precisely the extent and characteristics of the tin deposits in the seabed sand. The boat started in Perran Bay on Saturday and is currently working its way down the coast to St Ives Bay where, depending on weather, it anticipates completing the marine surveys in the next few days.
Talking about the survey work, John Sewell, Commercial Manager for Marine Minerals Ltd , said:
“We have been lucky with the weather so far this weekend which has allowed us to make good progress with the surveys. In addition to the scientists and geologists who have been conducting and overseeing the survey operations, we have also invited members from local groups so that they can see first hand the work we are doing. We are acutely aware of a number of sensitive issues that need to be considered and so are pleased that we were joined today by the Chairman of Hayle Harbour Advisory Committee, John Bennett and Hayle Town Councillor, Harry Blakeley. Tomorrow a representative from the St. Agnes Quay Fishermen’s Association will also be joining us on the boat.”
[mappress] Press Release, February 18, 2013