There should be more effective ways for fishermen to provide information on the environmental impact of marine developments. That is what Cefas scientists heard at recent NFFO ports visits in Barrow and Fleetwood. Cefas had been invited to the ports to discuss their role in marine development planning and answer questions about environmental impacts. Few others have the in-depth knowledge on local ecology of an area than fishermen, but too often the industry’s views are regarded as “anecdotal” and are discounted by scientists and consultants. In fact, treated in the right way they can form a powerful line of evidence. The meetings heard that there are also opportunities for fishermen to become directly involved in the planning of scientific studies and in data gathering at proposed site locations. Early and proactive engagement by developers in planning projects is key to successful collaboration, together with the support of government agencies such as Cefas.