Smart buoys protect Falmouth seagrass

Developed by Mylor Mooring Services, the buoys are designed to keep their mooring chains off the seabed without using traditional float systems, reducing environmental impact.

The project is a collaboration between Falmouth Harbour, the Ocean Conservation Trust, Mylor Mooring Services, and Cornwall Council, and raises the total number of protective markers in the area to 26.

“Blue Meadows has given us a great opportunity to work with like-minded partners on a project very close to our hearts,” said Ollie Hill of Mylor Mooring Services.

“We are acutely aware of the impacts we all have on the environment and we are really proud to be able to add these buoys to our growing portfolio in this precious part of the world.”

The new Port Notice Advanced Mooring System markers safeguard the seagrass bed off Trefusis Point, joining other installations in St Mawes Harbour and the Helford River.

These buoys are helping preserve around 30 hectares of crucial seagrass habitat, which supports marine life, captures carbon, and provides ecosystem services.

With over 44% of the UK’s seagrass lost since 1936, due to human activities, the initiative represents a significant step in protecting these vital underwater ecosystems.

The installation of the buoys has been funded by Cornwall Council as part of an offset payment received by Falmouth Harbour in relation to Armed Forces Day last year. It is hoped the same design will be used for other marks over sensitive seabeds as soon as possible.