The Poole Harbour Steering Group provides a framework for coordination between statutory bodies who have responsibilities in Poole Harbour. Its members work together to review, prepare and implement common plans and policies including the Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan and Poole Harbour Management Policies.

In addition the Poole Harbour Steering Group enables these authorities to coordinate and exercise their responsibilities as Relevant and Competent Authorities with respect to the Poole Harbour Special Protection Area (SPA) under The Conservation (Natural Habitats, & c.) Regulations, 1994.

The Steering Group aims to promote the sustainable use of Poole Harbour, balancing and resolving conflicts of interest. By seeking to stimulate, through shared information, co-operation and action, an appropriate balance between competing demands placed on the harbour and create a culture of openness and communication.

Members of the Poole Harbour Steering Group : Dorset County Council
English Nature
Environment Agency
Poole Borough Council
Poole Harbour Commissioners (Chair)
Purbeck District Council
Southern Sea Fisheries Committee

NEW - Bait Digging Code of Conduct for Poole Harbour

 
Estuaries and Harbours are amongst the richest areas for wildlife, with the wealth of life living in the mud and on the shore, they provide an abundance of food for other animals. Amongst the creatures living here are the Rag, Lug and King Ragworms. These are of course highly sought after bait for fishing.
The collection of bait for fishing has taken place for hundreds of years. The public right to fish includes the right to dig bait for one's own use, although there is no public right to dig to sell commercially.
With the status of Poole Harbour as an internationally important site for the birds which feed on these mudflat worms. The Poole Harbour Steering Group have over the past 18 months drawn together a new Code of Conduct for Bait Digging in Poole Harbour. It is hoped that when people go to dig for bait they will observe the code and by doing so will not only ensure that there is plenty of bait available for everyone in the future, but will also ensure that the harbour will remain an important haven for other wildlife.

Linked Pages:
 
Poole Harbour Special Protection Area
Poole Harbour Commissioners licence for works under the Poole Harbour Act 1914
Environmental Sites in Poole Harbour
English Nature
Environment Agency
Poole Borough Council
Purbeck District Council
Southern Sea Fisheries District Committee