87 eco-moorings to be installed at Studland Bay in April

If you’re planning a trip to Studland Bay over the next few weeks, then you may witness some exciting changes being delivered as part of the Studland Bay Marine Partnership (SBMP). 

The SBMP was set-up following Studland Bay’s recognition as a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) in 2019. It aims to manage the area in a way that allows nature to flourish, as well as support recreational activity.

Installation of Advanced eco-Mooring Systems (AMS) 

A key part of the project is the installation of AMS in Studland Bay. AMS allow recreational boaters to moor without dropping an anchor into vulnerable seabed habitat. Each AMS has a helical screw anchor which is driven into the seabed and attached to the mooring buoy via an elastic rode which stretches and contracts with the tide, avoiding scouring the seabed.

Deployment of the existing AMS will commence on 08 April 2024, quickly followed by an additional new 57 AMS, bringing the total AMS to 87 in the bay by the end of April. The successful installation of the new AMS in April will be weather dependent.

New marker buoys

Distinctive yellow marker buoys signposting the Voluntary No Anchor Zone (VNAZ) to water borne visitors have now been installed along the zone’s seaward perimeter by the Ocean Conservation Trust. Until the new AMS are installed it is advised that boat users moor outside of the VNAZ or on one of the ten "winter buoys" available. 

Information boards telling the story of Studland Bay and raising awareness of its ecological importance are also soon to be installed for visitors on the shoreside. 

To learn more about the Studland Bay Marine Partnership visit the Dorset Coast Forum Partnership website.