Conservation workers have deployed 20,000 native oysters in the Solent as part of the largest subtidal oyster reef restoration project ever undertaken in the UK.
The effort forms part of the Solent Seascape Project, led by ocean conservation charity Blue Marine Foundation.
Reversing a century of decline
The project aims to address a 96 per cent decline in native oyster populations in Solent waters over the past century.
Restoring the species to these waters represents one of the most ambitious marine habitat recovery efforts seen in the region.
Volunteers lead the way
More than 260 volunteers cleaned the oysters in preparation for their deployment over the course of the past week.
Their work made last week’s deployment possible, bringing a significant milestone in UK marine conservation within reach.
