The Humber Management Scheme (HMS) is undertaking a key piece of work to understand the impact of recreation on the protected birds of the Humber. This is a particularly important piece of work to help to understand the reasons for fluctuations in bird numbers on the estuary.
WHAT IS RECREATIONAL DISTURBANCE?
Many locations around the Humber Estuary are used by us Humans as a place to unwind, relax or enjoy recreation. Unfortunately, and often unknowingly, these recreational activities can have a negative impact by either disturbing wildlife or damaging protected habits - this is known as recreational disturbance.
CURRENT WORK
We're currently collecting data on recreational disturbance around the Humber Estuary. The aim is to gain a better understanding of when and where recreational disturbance is occurring, how it impacts protected species and habitats, and how we can help mitigate it. Each year, HNP produce a recreational disturbance report for our partners based on the data we've collected and analysed. We also work closely with partners at Humberside and Lincolnshire Police on projects such as Operation Seabird.
2013-14 ORNITHOLOGICAL WORK
Ornithological work took place across 10 sites along the estuary to measure how birds respond to recreation.
Humber winter bird disturbance study 2013-14
2011-12 VISITOR SURVEY WORK
The first comprehensive survey of recreational activity which takes place around the estuary took place in 2011-12. This data will be used to help us understand the impact of recreation on the protected birds.
2010 DESK BASED STUDY
This study brought together existing information to advise on the best approach to understand the impact of recreation.