The Summer of Nature Recovery trainees had the pleasure of hearing from Isabel Carlisle of the Bioregional Learning Centre (BLC) about the work being done on the Saltmarsh Project on the River Dart, which has been running for 2.5 years.
What is the Saltmarsh Project?
A partnership between the BLC, Environment Agency, Duchy of Cornwall and Dart Harbour & Navigation Authority to restore and enhance a number of the 28 areas of saltmarsh habitat in the upper Dart estuary. Physical restoration includes 1) creating embankment constraints to protect upper saltmarsh from sea level rise and 2) removal of constraints to allow saltmarsh to move further inland.
Why is Saltmarsh so important in combatting Climate Change?
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- Excellent carbon store – sequestering more carbon in its vegetation and mudflats than any ecosystem other than Tropics saltmarshes;
- Improves water quality, absorbing excess phosphates and nitrates;
- Enhances biodiversity, offering a habitat for a variety of species;
- Provides flood and coastal defence, absorbing tidal and wave energy.
What is one of the main challenges?
One of the aims of the Project is to promote ‘Recreation and Wellbeing’, making the saltmarsh a place for people to enjoy, so the Community Engagement aspect is key – how to go about getting people to fall in love with muddy saltmarsh! It was interesting to hear how the BLC is working to enhance the appeal of saltmarsh to more than just birdwatchers. One initiative was an event at Totnes cinema where ecology experts and local artists collaborated to provide insights into the restoration of these fragile ecosystems; the five pieces are unique and designed to appeal to people in different ways (via art, music, dance, etc.) – well worth a look on the BLC website!
How can we get involved and/or find out more?
Keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities, and community events such as a Summer Bird walk at the Sharpham Saltmarsh on Saturday 17 August 2024.
For more info on the Project, see https://bioregion.org.uk/project/thesaltmarshproject/
✍ Becky Cooper – Summer of Nature Recovery Trainee
August 2024
