Research & Monitoring

Research and Monitoring

University of Southampton research at StudlandFrom the start of the SBMP’s journey, and particularly given the historical contention in the bay, it was crucial to the partnership that restoration of the seagrass should be evidence driven. To support this a dedicated Research and Monitoring Group (RMG) was created, consisting of representatives from numerous academic institutions, conservation organisations and statutory bodies. As a partnership we are very fortunate to be working with leading experts in marine conservation, with experience across numerous fields including marine ecology, social science, oceanography, marine policy and coastal dynamics. Many of the members of the RMG have been involved directly in working in Studland Bay, bringing the benefits of a wealth of local experience to the team. The main aims of the Research and Monitoring Group are:

• Audit existing monitoring and research in Studland Bay
• Monitor the impacts of the eco-moorings within the VNAZ
• Identify future research opportunities
• Support the communication of high quality, evidence based information.

University of Southampton – Mapping seagrasses in Studland Bay Research Project, May 2022

As part of our monitoring programme we have a time-lapse camera installed overlooking the Voluntary No Anchor Zone. This camera takes multiple still images a day during the season when the full set of eco-moorings are out in the bay, and remotely sends them back to our Research and Monitoring Team. The images are then processed by software at the University of Southampton which can tell us the number of boats utilising the bay, and help us to understand any patterns in boat activity. Having a better record and understanding of this will help us better protect the seagrass beds in the bay.