The Otter estuary is an important area for biodiversity:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Otter_estuary_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1138681.jpg
With projects to restore the estuary itself:
Lower Otter Restoration Project
And, the lower reaches of the River Axe are particularly prized:
Seaton Wetlands wins national acclaim
Parallel to this work, there has been a lot of campaigning to increase the number of Marine Conservation Zones:
Marine Conservation Zones: again, not for Lyme Bay…
Making Plymouth Sound the UK’s first national marine park > public consultation opens
And now the government has just announced an extension of the MCZs:
Marine conservation zone designations in England – GOV.UK
The local press is very positive:
Massive expansion of Devon and Cornwall’s ‘Blue Belt’ announced
As is the Midweek Herald from earlier today:
Government moves to protect East Devon marine life
Axe and Otter estuaries now designated Marine Conservation Zones
The Axe and Otter estuaries are amongst 12 new Marine Conservation Zones created in the south west of England.
The expansion of the UK’s ‘Blue Belt’ was announced by Environment Secretary Michael Gove today (Friday May 31).
Among the species and habitats given greater protection by the designation are fan mussels, native oysters, tentacled lagoon-worms and the deep sea bed.
Mr Gove said: “The South West’s waters contain riches to rival the tropics – with the seas home to a vast array of animal and plant species. That’s why in this Year of Green Action we are increasing protection for these habitats, helping ensure they are safeguarded for generations to come.”