Non-native species are those that have been introduced, either intentionally or unintentionally, outside of their natural range. Invasive non-native species (INNS) are those that can pose considerable threats to the marine environment. They can adversely impact marine habitats and species by smothering and outcompeting native species. They can also have detrimental economic impacts on industry and recreational activities.

Preventing the introduction of INNS is recognised as the most effective management option, especially in the marine environment where eradication and containment are often not possible. Biosecurity plans present pragmatic, ‘good practice’ measures to reduce the risk of INNS movement via pathways identified as high risk. An estuary wide approach to biosecurity planning is a way to guide everyone using this environment to carry out best practice and behaviours.

Click on the image below to open the full PDF or click here to download a PDF of the plan.

Stour and Orwell Marine Biosecurity Plan v2.0

In 2022, Natural England commissioned an ‘Audit, review and prioritisation for marine invasive non-native species biosecurity planning in England to identify potential gaps and prioritise locations for further biosecurity planning. The Stour and Orwell Estuaries area was highlighted as a priority for the development of a biosecurity plan, being identified as a potential hotspot for marine INNS introductions.

A partnership of organisations with responsibilities and interests in the sustainable management of the estuaries was formed to progress and jointly fund the development of the plan: Natural England, Harwich Haven Authority, Associated British Ports, Port of Felixstowe & Trinity House.

Stakeholder engagement and buy-in is an essential component of biosecurity planning to ensure proposed actions are realistic, achievable and will be acted upon, as well as to help secure ongoing support and implementation of the plan. The information and actions within this plan have been developed following a series of local stakeholder workshops attended by a wide range of organisations and sectors across the Stour and Orwell Estuaries. The project partnership would like to thank all those who contributed to the creation of this plan for their involvement, support, interest and feedback, without which the project would not have been feasible.