Studland Bay recommended as a Marine Conservation Zone

Studland Bay is being put forward as one of the new Marine Conservation Zones being created around the country as a result of the Marine & Coastal Access Act 2009. Together these will form a network of protected areas in our seas which aims to allow our marine wildlife to recover from past decline. Studland Bay has been selected because of its nationally important seagrass meadows, both species of British seahorse, nursery area for the endangered undulate ray, for its native oysters and other features.

Human activities can continue in Marine Conservation Zones as long as they do not damage the listed species and habitats within them.

The Wildlife Trusts around the UK are concerned that the network will not be as strong as it needs to be. They are giving people the opportunity to help their campaign to ensure that these sites are large enough, that there are enough of them and in the right places and that they are well-managed for wildlife. Show your support at www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish

Click here for more information about Marine Conservation Zones