What are the issues concerning Seahorses at Studland?
Studland is an important site for seagrass and seahorses. It is also a traditional and popular area for recreation offering an attractive, safe, shallow, sandy anchorage for boats and some seasonal moorings. It is generally regarded by mariners as a ‘safe haven’ as it is protected from prevailing South West winds. On summer days over 300 boats can be anchored and moored at Studland. There are many differing views on the protection needs of seahorses in this area. Some advocate total protection of seahorses and seagrass from the risks of disturbance or damage while others maintain that existing recreational activities can continue or even expand alongside thriving seahorse populations.
