and I was down in Dorset with The SeaLife Trust and The Seahorse Trust , helping install their new Eco Moorings .
Normally , mooring chains swing around and gouge out huge circular holes in the seagrass bed . The Eco Moorings are designed to minimise impact on the seagrass , and by association the seahorse , while still allowing boat users to enjoy the marine environment , something key to keeping folk onside with ongoing conservation efforts . A 2m screw is driven into the seabed with a footprint of only 16cm . This is connected to the mooring buoy by an elastic rope , and so allows for the rise and fall of the tide .
I have new found respect and curiosity for seagrass , especially now knowing what fantastical creatures may be found there . It is an especially rewarding habitat for snorkelling , as it normally lies a short distance off often sheltered shores and in shallow water – the perfect snorkel site .
Snorkelling in such areas in the hope of seeing a seahorse is not discouraged , but you must follow strict and sensible protocols . For more information on how to safely and respectively snorkel at a seagrass ( and potential seahorse ) site and how to conduct surveys and report any sighting , go to theseahorsetrust . org .
The data gathered by ‘ citizen scientists ’ is becoming increasingly important to our understanding of the marine environment , and strengthens campaigns to protect such places . So , take a snorkel across the marine meadow , and do let the Seahorse Trust know if you strike gold and see one of our most beautiful marine creatures . It will be a memorable snorkel , and you ’ ll be doing your bit to save an iconic species and a much under-appreciated habitat . �
A closer look at a seagrass bed
PHOTO : DAN BOLT
Seagrass protects shallow seabeds and beaches from erosion
For more information on snorkelling with BSAC go to bsac . com / snorkelling Looking to introduce snokelling into your club ? Find out more at bsac . com / snorkellinginstructor
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