Great news for Sussex’s seahorses!
The Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority Marine Protected Areas Byelaw 2023 has just introduced new fisheries management for the Beachy Head East Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ), helping to safeguard some of Sussex’s most valuable marine habitats and threatened species, such as the native oyster, blue mussels and short-snouted seahorse.
This inshore site spans a total of 195km² along the Sussex shoreline near Eastbourne. It was designated an MCZ in May 2019 to allow for fisheries management policy to protect specific features. Bottom-trawling is now prohibited from Zone 1 (164km²) of the area to protect sensitive habitats and species. Low impact fishing, ie rod and line fishing, or static gear with nets and pots will continue. (Access for bottom-trawling has been permitted in Zone 2 (28km²) where it is reported that sensitive features are not present.)
A big round of applause to Sussex IFCA for again donning their ‘big fish pants’ and securing long-term protection for our Sussex marine life.
A year on from the Kelp Summit 2025
How time flies…it’s been a year since over 200 scientists, conservationists, fishers and more, gathered in Brighton at our Kelp Summit 2025. We are still learning from the wealth of presentations, conversations and workshops - marine brain fodder which will serve to guide our work for many years to come.
As a reminder of the day, take a look at the Kelp Summit 2025: Event Summary Report or watch a short video capturing the excitement of the day.
Hear from SKRP on the Arun Valley Line podcast
Our own Nikki Oliver can be heard talking all things SKRP on the Arun Valley Line podcast, created by Whistlestop Arts. This free podcast showcases the wonderful people and stunning places on this scenic train route. Nikki was interviewed on the banks of the River Arun, for Series 2: Episode 4 - Littlehampton.
“Discover the magic of the Arun Valley Line, where the journey is as beautiful as the destination.”
Otto: Children’s book by local author and 9yr-old illustrator
A unique creative partnership between a veteran Sussex writer and a nine-year-old illustrator has resulted in the publication of Otto, a new children’s book aimed at readers aged 7–12.
Otto tells the story of an octopus whose home is destroyed by debris dumped from a ship. With help from his friends, Otto sets out to clean up the reef and restore it to health – with a little assistance from some humans along the way.
A portion of the profits from Otto will be donated to support SKRP’s ongoing research work.
SKRP celebrated in pictures by students of local primary school
We celebrated World Art Day by showcasing the ‘kelptastic’ artwork created by the year 4 students of St Paul’s School, Brighton. The children were inspired by the project and as part of their annual art exhibition, created underwater masterpieces!
Watch out Sea-lvador Dali, Leonardo Da Fin-ci, Frida Kelp-o and Clawed Monet!
See you back here next month for more News from the Blue!