Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is launching a campaign over the Easter holidays to encourage local people and visitors to enjoy crabbing, the eco-way. Using hooks, mistreating crabs and littering whilst crabbing is a serious problem but could be avoided with DWT’s 5 key guidelines.
The guidelines are:
1. Use bait bags instead of hooks;
2. Have fewer than 3 crabs in a bucket at any one time;
3. Replace the water frequently;
4. Keep the water in the shade;
5. Don’t leave litter.
DWT’s staff and volunteers will be out at Weymouth Harbour during the Easter holidays, talking to crabbers and giving out fun bucket stickers with the eco-crabbing pointers.
The DWT Fine Foundation Chesil Beach Centre, Portland, will also be holding an exhibition throughout the Easter holidays to celebrate eco-crabbing with crafts and games.
DWT’s Wildlife Skills Trainee and project lead, Steph Aburrow, said “The exhibition will be great fun, and is one for all the family. It is a chance for you to learn about the life cycle of a crab, see a crab moult that is bigger than a dinner plate, take part in a crab themed trail around the centre and even go searching for some real crabs yourself. Whilst you are there you can indulge in some delicious food from Taste* Café and go on a lovely coastal walk.”
Steph added “Crabbing is fun for all ages and gets people engaging with marine life which is great. All we are asking is that people just take a moment to care for the marine wildlife and protect it for future generations. Please help us to make the campaign a success. Follow our guidelines, spread the message and share your eco-crabbing pictures with us using #EcoCrabbing and see how everyone can help to make a difference.”
To find out more about the eco-crabbing campaign please call Steph at the Chesil Beach Centre (DT4 9XE) on 01305 206191 or email at [email protected].
