New study provides first clear evidence that eco-moorings can restore damaged seagrass meadows

These findings provide some of the clearest evidence yet that practical conservation measures can reverse damage to seagrass meadows which are one of the world's most valuable ecosystems. Seagrass habitats store carbon, support biodiversity and help protect coastlines from erosion, yet they are declining globally due to pressures including pollution, coastal development, physical disturbance and climate change.

The research, conducted by Kira Dunn as part of her MSc in Marine Biology with Oceanography at the University of Southampton, analysed annual monitoring data collected since eco-moorings were first installed by the Studland Bay Marine Partnership in 2021.

Using side-scan sonar surveys, historical satellite imagery and five years of monitoring data, the study tracked recovery across 39 damaged areas of seabed. Researchers found every anchor chain scar examined showed signs of recovery once ongoing disturbance had ceased.

In the area where 10 trial eco-moorings were installed in 2021, the size of bare patches in the seagrass decreased by an average of 93.6 per cent between 2021 and 2025, shrinking by around 57 square metres each year.

In a second study area, where traditional chain moorings remained until 2023, the scars reduced by 65.4 per cent, equating to around 15.9 square metres per year. Crucially, researchers found no significant change between 2021 and 2023, suggesting recovery only began once alternatives to traditional anchoring became available.

Studland Bay was designated a Marine Conservation Zone in 2019 and is home to one of the UK's largest seagrass meadows, supporting numerous marine species including the protected spiny seahorse and the occasionally recorded short-snouted seahorse. The bay also became a Voluntary No Anchor Zone in 2021, helping reduce disturbance to the sensitive habitat.

Kira Dunn, who graduated this year with a MSc in Marine Biology with Oceanography, said: "This was a really rewarding and positive project to work on. The results clearly show that seagrass is recovering in areas where physical disturbance has been removed. It's incredibly encouraging to see how quickly this important habitat can regenerate when given the opportunity."

Dr Ken Collins, Emeritus Research Fellow & Diving Officer at the University of Southampton and supervisor of the study, added: "This research provides robust scientific evidence that eco-moorings are an effective tool for seagrass conservation and restoration. The findings support the continued use and expansion of eco-mooring schemes, not only in Studland but in other sensitive marine environments where seagrass habitats are under pressure. Studland Bay is becoming a powerful example of how practical conservation measures can reverse habitat damage and deliver measurable environmental improvements."

The study concluded that recovery in both areas occurred naturally once ongoing damage had ceased, demonstrating the potential for seagrass habitats to recover when physical disturbance is removed.

David Brown, Chair of the Studland Bay Marine Partnership steering group, and lead ecologist for the National Trust, said: “These results are incredibly exciting, and a huge encouragement to all the organisations and individuals who have given so much time and support to the partnership. We had previously mapped all the anchor scars in the seagrass, and this research shows that every one of them is healing, with new seagrass growing back.

“The impact has been beyond our expectations, and thanks to robust monitoring and research, we have the science to prove how the eco-moorings benefit seagrass and all the species that rely on it.”

The Studland Bay Marine Partnership, formed in 2021, brings together organisations and individuals committed to protecting and enhancing the seagrass meadows while still allowing people to enjoy the bay. To find out more, visit the Studland Bay Marine Partnership website at: www.studlandbay.org