Interpretation boards help boat users navigate sensitive seabed habitats

 

As part of a major effort to protect and raise awareness of the Isles of Scilly’s fragile seagrass habitats, interpretation boards have been installed at key locations around the archipelago. These boards aim to raise awareness to both residents and visitors about the critical role that seagrass meadows play in supporting marine biodiversity and mitigating climate change, while also providing guidance on how to protect these vulnerable habitats.

The Isles of Scilly, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, are home to some of the UK’s most important seagrass beds. Seagrass meadows act as nurseries for many marine species, including commercially important fish, they increase carbon storage, and reduce coastal erosion. However, these sensitive seagrass meadows are under threat from human activities such as anchoring, boat traffic, and pollution.

The new interpretation boards, funded by the LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES project, installed at popular access points and Quay’s, highlight the internationally recognised marine wildlife that can be enjoyed in Scilly. They explain how to avoid damage and disturbance to seabirds, seals and seagrass meadows and provide practical advice on anchoring and mooring to minimise disturbance to marine habitats.

Dale Clark, Harbour Master for the Duchy of Cornwall commented:

“St. Mary’s Harbour is proud to support the LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES project in its efforts to protect and preserve the unique seabed surrounding the Isles of Scilly. As part of this initiative, we have installed an informational board on St. Mary’s quay to share valuable insights about the local marine environment and promote responsible boating practices. In addition, we have updated our website and brochure for visiting yachts, providing essential information to help boaters protect the islands’ sensitive habitats. By raising awareness among all visitors, we aim to contribute to the ongoing conservation of these important marine ecosystems. For more information, visit our website St Marys Harbour – The traffic hub of the Isles of Scilly  or speak to a member of our team at the harbour office.”

Commenting on the project Dean Whillis, from Tresco Island said:

“We are thrilled to work with our partners to help raise awareness of the special marine life in the Isles of Scilly. Tourism is vital to our economy here in Scilly, but it is essential that we manage it in a way that respects the environment. These new seagrass awareness boards are a step in ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy our natural resources responsibly, safeguarding them for future generations.”

 

Jules Webber, Natural England ReMEDIES site lead for the Isles of Scilly, said:

“It’s been fabulous to collaborate with our partners here in Scilly to create these information boards, made possible by the LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES project. It’s so exciting to see these awareness boards in Scilly helping to empower residents and visitors to anchor more sustainably, avoid sensitive habitats and record seagrass sightings. The seagrass meadows here in Scilly are in excellent condition, lets continue to work together to ensure this vital habitat and other marine life can continue to thrive, Save Our Seabed“

CEO for the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Branscombe, said:

“Seagrass meadows are vital to the health of our marine environment, but they are often overlooked. These awareness boards will showcase their importance, along with other marine wildlife, and offer simple actions that everyone can take to protect them. We will continue working with partners to ensure our marine wildlife is protected and appreciated. For more information about the important work we do visit Homepage | Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust”

Download our Infographic or our Natural Capital Assessment to find out more about Isles of Scilly seagrass.