About the event

Seagrass meadows are vital marine habitats, important for supporting biodiversity, storing "Blue Carbon" and many more ecosystem services. The Solent supports internationally important seagrass meadows, but over 90% have been lost in the last 100 years and they are still under threat. Tim Ferrero and Ellie Parker will introduce these fascinating habitats, their conservation and ongoing efforts at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to restore seagrass meadows to their former extent.

Dr Tim Ferrero is a marine biologist and conservationist working at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT), raising awareness of the marine life, habitats and protected areas of the Solent. Tim's work at HIWWT contributes to delivery of the HIWWT’s "Wilder Solent" vision, marine data collection and dissemination, citizen science and marine education and engagement. Tim is currently leading HIWWT's efforts to restore seagrass habitats through our "Solent Seagrass Restoration Project" and "Solent Seascape Project". Tim also leads voliunteer-led surveys work on the EU Life recreation ReMEDIES project, seeking to reduce recreational impacts on seagrass.

Ellie Parker is the Marine Officer of the Solent Seagrass Restoration Project at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Ellie’s work at HIWWT includes responsibility for the Solent Seagrass Champion volunteer programme, educating and engaging local communities on marine life and seagrass habitats in the Solent and delivery of seagrass restoration work.