Are you interested in learning more about one of the most important marine habitats on the Isle of Wight and mainland? If so, you are invited join an evening of talks and discussion about seagrass meadows.
Seagrass meadows are underwater flowering plants that grow in shallow waters around our coast. They provide numerous benefits, including providing habitat for marine species, serving as a nursery ground for commercial fish, storing carbon in the ocean floor, stabilising coastlines from erosion through storms, and cleaning our water. However, seagrass meadows are under threat due to human impacts.
Arc Biodiversity & Climate, Artecology’s mother company, has been busy working with project partners to bring together an Isle of Wight Seagrass Symposium. The event will include talks by organisations leading seagrass meadow research and conservation work, with updates on work done so far and opportunities to contribute to ongoing work. There will also be open discussion around seagrass meadow restoration on the Isle of Wight and in the Solent, and a chance to meet and share ideas. Tea and coffee will be provided too!
The speakers for the event include the Isle of Wight UNESCO World Biosphere’s own Ian Boyd of ARC Biodiversity & Climate, Dr. Richard Unsworth of Project Seagrass, and Swansea University, Dr. Tim Ferrero of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, and a fourth speaker who will be confirmed later.
This event is FREE to attend, and has been made possible by Cowes Yacht Haven's Cowes Town Waterfront Trust. Talks will be live-streamed to the Project Seagrass Facebook page for those who are unable to attend in person. Book your free ticket here.
Seagrass meadow restoration on the Isle of Wight and Solent is being undertaken by many different organisations, working with local people to guide the work. If you have any questions about the event, please contact info@projectseagrass.org.
The event will take place at Cowes Yacht Haven, Vectis Yard Marina Walk, Cowes PO31 7BD on Tuesday the 18th Apr 2023 at 19:00 - 20:30.
You can get there on foot or public transport, buses drop at the Red Jet terminal, Fountain Quay. There is no parking at Cowes Yacht Haven, but parking is available on-street in town, at St Mary's Road Car Park, Northwood House Car Park, and M&S Car Park, all a short five-minute walk to the Yacht Haven. Berths are also available if you prefer to come by boat.