Our work on Rottingdean Beach
FES has adopted Rottingdean Beach in order to participate in the national Adopt-A-Beach Campaign administered by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS).
The Foundation has amassed some excellent data records over the years, based on persistent and systematic attendance. These records make it possible to analyse and see the trends over the years or for every season. It is then possible to compare and contrast these snapshots or trends with those of other beaches elsewhere throughout the country.
Creating standards such as this is always scientifically important. Not only do we clean the beach every quarter, but we also collect the data and send it to the MCS, which is trying to combat beach pollution by stopping it at source. This is the long-term success that conservationists aim for.
Looking out for local wildlife
However, we also have other conservation interests in the district as Rottingdean Beach is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). As we carry out our beach-cleaning duties we collect shells and carcasses of other natural phenomena, such as cuttlefish husks and mermaid's purses.
We also look out for basking sharks, turtle tracks, birds and other wildlife sightings. Moreover we report stranded or washed-up animals such as jellyfish.
We know that the area around Rottingdean Beach has a resident local population of seahorses, as specimens have been washed up on the beach as well as nearby in the marina. Our own Seahorse Plan could develop in this area, but is hampered by a lack of funding.
Further along the South Coast is the Jurassic Coast, Britain's only natural World Heritage Site, which also offers much potential for wildlife promotion. Like Andy Mydellton, the Jurassic Coast Team are involved with the UNSECO Schools group.