SEAGRASS: VITAL VALUABLE AND VANISHING


Understanding why the hidden habitats are so important and by adopting best practice, such as anchoring and mooring, you can play a big role in securing the biodiversity future of our seas.


What is seagrass?


Seagrasses form a key habitat of the seabed. They are most at risk from damage and are currently classed as a critically endangered species. The habitat that seagrass provides is essential to the marine ecosystem, it acts as a key breeding, feeding and resting ground for a variety of protected species such as seahorses, cuttlefish, stalked jelly fish, as well as rare seaweeds.


Rejuvenation project


The RYA has partnered with Natural England along with other organisations as part of an EU LIFE funded project, known as the LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES Project. The aim of the project is to improve the condition of five at risk seagrass bed habitats on the south coast and to reduce the negative impact of activities on the seabed, such as mooring and anchoring.


Ways you can help


As boat users we can have a positive effect on seagrass beds by making simple changes to our boating practices. One example is using a designated slipway whenever possible to land and launch your boat. This will avoid the hull, your feet and trailer wheels coming into direct contact with sensitive habitats in shallow waters and along the shoreline.


© Ocean Conservation Trust


Advanced Mooring Systems (AMS) have been designed to have less impact on the seabed. There are various AMS designs available, with changes often made to the chain or the anchor which are much more ‘seabed friendly’.


Avoiding shallow waters and being conscious of low tides will help ensure that your boat avoids coming into contact with or running aground on seabed vegetation. If you do run into seabed vegetation, stop immediately and lift your engine. You should then paddle away until you are clear of the vegetation. You should never use your engine to force your way out as it will damage the habitat and your engine!


Seagrass beds are rapidly declining and are becoming especially scarce in UK waters, but if all water users make a conscious effort to ensure that actions such as anchoring cause as little damage as possible, then there is a chance that we may be able to save this essential habitat.


Get social!


For more information on anchoring best practice, as well as water pollution and boating around wildlife, visit The Green Blue’s website: www.thegreenblue.org.uk


Visit The Green Blue at the show on stand B5 RYA DINGHY & WATERSPORTS SHOW 2022 09


SEAGRASS REPLANTING


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