To boost local marine conservation work, Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) will be launching its new Seahorse Adoption scheme at the 2016 County Show on 3rdand 4thSeptember 2016.
The new Adoption scheme comes after it has been identified that marine wildlife in Dorset is struggling. In response to this, DWT has launched the Dorset Marine Conservation Fund to try and help increase marine conservation work and protect vulnerable species, such as the enigmatic seahorse. All profits from seahorse adoptions will go towards the Dorset Marine Conservation Fund.
For a one-off donation of £20 as a gift to yourself, or someone special, adopters will receive a certificate, seahorse fact sheet, marine conservation leaflet, a pin badge and a soft toy seahorse.
DWT Living Seas Manager, Peter Tinsley said, “Like many marine habitats, ecosystems which support the seahorse population are in decline, due to pollution, unsustainable fishing and climate change. By adopting a seahorse, your donation will help provide the vital funding required to secure a brighter future for our seas, which can then be enjoyed for many generations to come.”
Dorset is home to both species of seahorse found in the UK; the short-snouted seahorse and the spiny seahorse.
The first 10 people on each day of the County Show to adopt a seahorse will receive a free *Concise Seashore Wildlife Guide. Visit stand number 02 in the countryside area, where DWT will have displays about marine wildlife, marine litter and how you can help reduce it, and also how to make your garden wildlife friendly. There will also be the opportunity to become a member of DWT and chat to our wardens about wildlife where you live and the work we do in Dorset.
Communications Manager for the Dorset County Show, Tony McDougal said, “I am delighted that Dorset Wildlife Trust has chosen the Dorset County Show to launch its important Seahorse Adoption scheme. Dorset has a fabulous marine environment and it is vital that we all protect and enhance conditions for our endangered coastal species.”
The County Show is on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September from 9am – 5pm at Dorchester Show Ground, approximately one mile from Dorchester town centre, DT2 7SD.
To adopt a seahorse online, visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/seahorseadoption or find out more about our Marine Conservation Fund here: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/dmcf.
