1. Where is the Severn Estuary?
2. What is a European marine site?
3. Why is the Severn Estuary a European Marine Site?
4. Who are ASERA (the Association of Severn Estuary Relevant Authorities)?
5. Who are the Advisory Group to the management scheme?
6. What is being done for the management of the site?
7. Who should I contact for more information?

Where is the Severn Estuary? The Severn Estuary covers the upper reaches of the Bristol Channel on the west coast of Britain, between South Wales and the South West of England. A map shows the area of the Severn Estuary Special Protection Area for which the Severn Estuary is referred to as a European marine site.

What is a European marine site? "European marine sites" (EMS) are sites of European importance for nature conservation which include subtidal and/or intertidal areas. They include areas designated under the EU Habitats Directive as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and areas designated under the EU Birds Directive as Special Protection Areas (SPAs).

Why is the Severn Estuary a European marine site? The Severn Estuary supports populations of wild birds that are of European importance, and in recognition of this the Estuary was classified as a Special Protection Area (SPA) in 1995. The Severn Estuary is also a Ramsar site and a possible Special Area of Conservation (pSAC). A picture set and slideshow of important habitats and species are available.

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