Our story
The partnership was formed in 2020, shortly after Studland Bay was designated as a Marine Conservation Zone. It is made up of conservation charities, boating organisations, academics, statutory bodies, community groups and local businesses.
The first major step came in 2021 when The Seahorse Trust and marina developers, boatfolk, led on the installation of 10 eco-moorings. These offered an innovative and practical way to reduce pressure on the highly sensitive seagrass meadows.
Following the success of those first moorings, we gained a licence to expand the scheme. In 2024, with funding from the Marine Management Organisation, partner organisations and many private donors, we increased the number of eco-moorings to 87.
In 2025, Carbon Neutral Britain became our principle supporter.
Photo: The National Trust
Our mission
"Marine Conservation Zones are nationally important assets, and we recognise that the successful management of sites requires strong local engagement and support. The excellent work of the Studland Bay Marine Partnership demonstrates the value of local coastal partnerships and how they can lead to the recovery of marine habitats."Jess Churchill-Bissett, Head of Marine Conservation, Marine Management Organisation
Photo: Dorset Coast Forum
The challenge
To bridge this divide, we launched an engagement programme with the boating community. Our ambassadors are themselves boaters, meaning they can listen and empathise, but also inform, excite and inspire people about the project.
"We are proud to be the principal supporter of the Studland Bay Marine Partnership, a project that reflects our commitment to driving meaningful climate action here in the UK alongside our verified offsetting initiatives around the world. Protecting and restoring seagrass habitats in Studland Bay delivers a powerful dual benefit: enhancing marine biodiversity while also capturing and storing carbon via biomass and organic matter in marine sediments. These vital ecosystems play a crucial role in the fight against climate change, and by supporting their preservation, we are investing in a more resilient and sustainable future for both nature and communities.''James Poynter – Director, Carbon Neutral Britain
Our partners
Our core partners include:
- Dorset Coast Forum
- Dorset Wildlife Trust
- Natural England
- Representatives of Poole Harbour and Christchurch Harbour sailing clubs
- Studland Parish Council
- The Crown Estate
- The National Trust
- The Royal Yachting Association
- The Seahorse Trust
- University of Southampton
Our supporters
In addition to the core partners, many of whom have contributed funds as well as time, the following organisations have all financially contributed to the project since 2021:
- Carbon Neutral Britain (principal supporter)
- boatfolk
- Environment Agency (Championing Coastal Coordination scheme)
- GSA Capital
- Home Grown Hotels / the Pig on the Beach
- H2Eco
- Knoll House Hotel
- Marine Management Organisation (Fisheries & Seafood Scheme)
- Ocean Conservation Trust
- Richer Sounds
- 2150 Venture capital fund
Many individuals have also contributed to the project through private donations. We are grateful to you all!
"We’re proud to be ambassadors for the Studland Bay Marine Partnership, sharing the story of our precious seagrass meadows and the vital work being done to protect them. We connect with people from all walks of life, on and off the water, and it’s inspiring to see how warmly they respond when they learn just how important this conservation project is."Tracey Waters, ambassador, Studland Watersports