Dozens of eco-moorings installed along Studland to help nature

The Studland Bay Marine Partnership (SBMP) has nearly completed the installation, which will protect several species including seagrass and seahorses, off Studland Bay. 

Seven have been installed so far, with the remainder being completed by the end of June, with 10 installed in 2021. 

The installation of eco-moorings provides an environmentally friendly alternative to regular anchors, which can damage the seabed and seagrass meadows, and allow wildlife to thrive beneath the shore. 

Two seahorses (Image: Neil Garrick-Maidmen)

Made possible with £66,000 raised through crowdfunding and corporate partners such as SEA LIFE and the SEA LIFE TRUST, planners hope to raise enough for an extra 57 eco-moorings by 2024. 

Neil Garrick-Maidment, founder and executive director of the Seahorse Trust said: “This latest installation is once again a huge achievement for Studland Bay and the broader conservation sector. 

“Since the beginning of this project, we’ve seen awareness and interest in protecting seahorses rise, with the public coming alive to the importance of this magical species.” 

The plan for long-term management is for the SBMP to take ownership and management responsibility for all eco-moorings, funded through daily mooring fees as well as private sponsorship. 

David Brown, of the National Trust in Purbeck and chair of the SBMP: “The National Trust welcomes around 1.5 million people to Studland Bay every year and seeing the next batch of eco-moorings going in is a fantastic symbol of positive progress for one of our most treasured coastal places.  

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“A few years ago, recreational boating and seagrass conservation appeared to be in conflict, but the Studland Bay Marine Partnership has brought together conservationists, boaters, local communities and public authorities, and we have worked together fantastically.  

“We all recognise the importance of seagrass beds for biodiversity and in the fight against climate change, and we are working hand in hand to protect and restore Studland’s seagrass whilst still enabling boat users to enjoy the bay. The eco-moorings are key to this.” 

Chris Brown, head of marine programmes at SEA LIFE, said: “Seagrass provides a vital home to a diverse variety of animals including the stunning spiny seahorse, and in taking part in underwater seahorse surveys in Studland, I’ve witnessed first-hand the unintentional damage anchor chains can make to the seagrass habitats.  

“The work of the Studland Bay Marine Partnership is crucial in helping to protect important species like them, and the surrounding ecosystems, for the future.”