 March 2025 | Issue 71
The days are getting longer and the first signs of spring have arrived. As the colder months draw to a close we're taking the time to reflect and update you on important changes surrounding the Exe Estuary Management Partnership. As well as, highlighting the amazing work, insights, and stories from our partners and stakeholders around the Exe Estuary. Celebrating the successes from last year and the progress we are working towards over the coming year, in increasing the sustainability of the Exe Estuary.
Team Changes within the Exe Estuary Management Partnership
Our Recent Team Changes have had Us Saying Farewell and Welcome to Some Wonderful People!
In our last edition we said farewell to Ellie Ward our wonderful Costal Support Officer and wished her the best of luck in her new role within the Natural Environment team at Devon County Council. Since then, we have had some further team changes, saying farewell to Bev Phillips the Maine, Estuaries, and Costal Officer as she goes on maternity leave, and welcoming Chloe Nunn as her maternity cover. As well as, welcoming Lauren Turner as the new Maine, Estuaries, and Costal Support Officer.
Bev Phillips
Bev has done an amazing job over the last year coordinating the Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP), her work has been invaluable to the delivery of the partnership. Working on multiple channels throughout the year, Bev has been a part of a variety of projects from planning the winter stakeholder forum to drafting a biosecurity plan to help with invasive species within the estuary. She has also been undertaking a governance review of the EEMP governance procedure, working hard to modernise the partnership structure to focus on engagement and collaboration between partners. Bev’s dedication and warm energy will be greatly missed over the next year, but we wish her all the best with her new arrival. Check out Bev's farewell article below.
Chloe Nunn
 Chloe In Action During One of Her Many Projects
Chloe is a marine ecologist and social scientist specialising in coastal resilience. She has been working across research, education, policy, storytelling, and industry for over 10 years and is excited to bring her expertise to the Exe Estuary. She’s experienced in partnership work and facilitating complex collaborations; a highlight of this work for her is learning from everyone’s perspectives. Having lived and worked across the North Atlantic and Arctic she’s always delighted when a job allows her to connect with places closer to home (Plymouth) and can’t wait to get out and about on the Estuary. Beyond her professional connection to the ocean, she can often be found on, in, or near the sea as a sailor, swimmer, water-skier (secret talent), photographer, and coast path hiker. She can’t wait to meet you on the Exe, and at our events! If you have any questions about, or ideas for the Partnership, she would love to hear them.
Lauren Turner
 Lauren Kitted Out Along the Exe Estuary (Photo Credit: Tom Davies)
Lauren’s role is to facilitate the work of the Marine, Estuaries, and Costal Officer and help with the delivery and coordination of the EEMP. Lauren started in post at the end of October and has been getting stuck in with EEMP related work. At first instance Lauren successfully launched the social media of the EEMP, creating engaging content educating on key wildlife and spreading awareness of sustainable estuary use. Check out the EEMP social media links below for updates on all things Exe Estuary, and weekly wildlife spotlights. Another part of her role is the development of our educational sessions; Lauren has created a new way to deliver our sessions that link to current school curriculums and environmental challenges within the estuary. Check out the article below on EEMP school sessions for more information on the content and delivery of our upcoming sessions.
Chloe and Lauren are excited to deliver an engaging year within their new roles. They hope to coordinate the EEMP throughout this year with exciting opportunities and projects.
Stay Connected To All Things Exe Estuary
Engage With Us and Keep Up to Date Across Our Multiple Channels and Platforms!
If you have any news or events that you would like to include in the next edition of the Exe Press newsletter, please contact us via our email address:
exeestuar@devon.gov.uk
Make sure to follow the EEMP social media pages for updates on all things Exe Estuary:
EEMP Instagram Page
EEMP Facebook Page
EEMP LinkedIn Page
Please note that the following articles do not necessarily represent the views or principles of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership.
 Bev Phillips In Action On Her Paddle Board
Update from Bev Phillips: Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer
A Fond Farewell as I Depart on My Maternity Leave and an End‑of‑Year Reflection working within the Exe Estuary Management Partnership
By the time you are reading this, I will be on maternity leave, which began at the end of February. It has been quite a year, and certainly not without its challenges, but also one full of progress, learning, and positive steps forward for the Partnership. With very little in the way of a handover or understanding of established processes when I started, it has been a year of piecing things together, building new approaches, and shaping the role into something more structured and resilient for the future. I am proud of what has been achieved, and grateful to partners for their support along the way.
Highlights from the Past Year
Governance and Chair Recruitment
The governance review has moved forward significantly, with statutory partner meetings completed and recruitment underway for a new Chair in line with the 2026 structure. Work to support this transition has been a major focus, and I’m pleased with the progress made.
Personal Aircraft Code of Conduct
Another piece of work this year has been the development of the Personal Aircraft Code of Conduct, commissioned by South East Devon Wildlife. I picked up this project early on and myself and a colleague have taken it through the research, drafting, design and development stages to near completion. South East Devon Wildlife are now taking the document forward for the very final design and finishing touches with their designer.
This has been a particularly interesting and rewarding project, and it sits well alongside the other code‑of‑conduct work the EEMP has contributed to over the years. I am pleased with the progress made and the strong foundation now in place for South East Devon Wildlife to finalise and publish.
Events, Forums and Partnership Work
This year’s Autumn Forum was delivered successfully, with support from the Forum Chair and Vice Chair. Planning for 2026 events is underway, and relationships with partners continue to strengthen as we look ahead to the next phases of work.
Support Officer Role & Team Development
A full review of the Support Officer role took place earlier in the year, resulting in a stronger, clearer structure and—most importantly—bringing Lauren into post. She has been a fantastic addition to the team: focused, positive, creative, and proactive. She uses her initiative and problem‑solving skills brilliantly, and I’m confident she will continue to be an invaluable asset.
Schools Sessions
Our education programme has grown significantly. Lauren has continued to make excellent progress, with bookings coming in for this year’s sessions. We have expanded the offer to include the Natural Environment, Climate, and the History of the Exe, and we will be trialling in‑school sessions alongside site‑based ones. Sessions delivered in spring and summer 2025 were extremely well received and have helped shape the expanded programme for 2026.
Social Media
Our social media channels launched successfully and continue to gain followers. They have become a great way to showcase the brilliant work taking place across the Partnership. Thank you to those who have shared stories and images—we encourage you to keep them coming.
We will also be rolling out partner spotlights, so you may hear from Lauren requesting short profiles or updates.
Engagement Survey
As part of strengthening how we work together, Lauren circulated an engagement survey earlier in the year. Your feedback is helping us check how connected partners feel, how clear our communication is, and where we can improve collaboration going forward.
Website and Communications
Over the year, I have been working through updates to the website, responding to numerous public and partner enquiries, improving how information is shared, and beginning to build a clearer and more accessible online presence.
Biosecurity Plan
I have been developing a Biosecurity Plan for the Exe, which is nearing completion and will provide a useful foundation for future work.
Maternity Cover
My maternity cover, Chloe Nunn, has now started in post and will be leading on the Partnership’s work over the coming year. I am sure Chloe will do a great job and continue to build on the progress made.
Thank You
Thank you to everyone who has contributed, shared knowledge, collaborated on projects, and helped steer the work of the Partnership this year. It has not always been plain sailing, but your support has been appreciated—and the achievements are shared ones.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and constructive 2026. I look forward to seeing you again in early spring 2027.
 View of the Exe Estuary from Dawlish Warren Spit (Photo Credit: Tom Davies / Instgram: @tomD_photojournalist)
Exe Estuary Management Partnership Governance Changes
Coordinating a Governance Framework that Increases Efficiency, Collaboration, and Ensures Sectoral Interests are Represented
Since the last governance review in 2018 further inefficiencies and overlap have been identified through a coordinated review by the Marine, Estuaries, and Costal Officer in conjunction with our partners. The aim of the review was to identify further areas that could be simplified to make collaborative management across the estuary an easier process. As a result, a new governance framework has been proposed and is currently in the review stage. The new frameworks goal is still to support the achievement of the Exe Estuary Management Plan. By adopting the new framework, the hope is to utilise the coordination team’s capacity in a sensible way, enhancing engagement with community members as well as creating clearer communication channels and supporting partners.
Aim of the New Governance Framework
In achieving the aim of the new governance framework, the partnership is looking to reduce the number of meetings throughout the year, to provide a clearer approach to action setting rather than discuss and deliberation. As well as, establishing clearer guidance on decision making roles, and the structure of the partnership. The partnership will also adopt a more dynamic approach to Forum events which better align with the locational needs of community groups around the estuary.
Another important change is the shift to one partnership chair supported by one vice chair, to aid the coordination and delivery of the partnership. The call for applications is currently open, please see the Call for Chair and Vice Chair Applications below. If you feel passionately about the Exe Estuary landscape and our approach to estuary management now is your chance to help lead an incredible and dedicated partnership!
Timeline of Implementation
Our new governance framework will be launched on the 1st of April 2026, there will be an initial teething phase, so we appreciate your patience over the first few months as we adapt and set up processes, documents, and reviews of whether the implementation is succeeding or requires further adaption. We will be rolling out guidance and explanations of changes in general, and any specific details will be communicated to relevant partnership members so keep an eye out!
The framework underwent significant consultation, but it is not infallible. If our reviews find further inefficiencies or you have further suggestions, we would love to discuss this. We want the governance framework implementation to be a transparent and collaborative process.
The member renewal packs with all the information and new Terms or Reference to be signed, and membership confirmation for 2026/2027 will be available at the beginning of April. But if you are a new organisation, or new to the EEMP, and want to become a Partnership Committee member now is a great time to get in touch.
A Collaborative Approach to Implementation
We will do our best to clarify all communications and the changes, but if you require further clarification or want to provide further recommendations, please get in touch. We look forward to implementing this new framework, moving towards a more efficient and collaborative governance strategy, applying better protection and support to the beautiful landscape of the Exe Estuary.
 View of the Exe Estuary from Topsham Quay (Photo Credit: Tom Davies / Instgram: @topshamphotography)
A Call for Applications: Chair and Vice Chair of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership
Your Chance to be a Part of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership and Shape the Sustainable Use of the Exe Estuary
The Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP) is inviting applications for the voluntary roles of Chair and Vice Chair, to begin their three‑year terms in April 2026.
These roles are central to the strategic direction, good governance, and collaborative spirit of the Partnership. As part of our updated governance arrangements, both positions are now open through a transparent and inclusive election process.
Following the May 2025 local elections, the long‑standing practice of appointing an elected councillor as Chair is no longer in effect. The Partnership is now adopting a more democratic and open system to ensure leadership reflects the breadth of the estuary’s communities and stakeholders.
Under the new arrangements:
- The Chair and Vice Chair will serve three‑year terms
- A Chair may serve up to two consecutive terms, unless exceptional circumstances are agreed by the Executive Steering Group
- Both roles are voluntary and open to a broad range of applicants
- Elections will follow a formal, transparent process in line with other regional nature partnerships
Applications are welcome from:
- Any member of the Exe Estuary Management Partnership
- Members of the public with an interest in the estuary and its future
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to the aims of the EEMP
- The ability to act impartially, collaboratively, and strategically
- Confidence in chairing discussions and supporting inclusive decision‑making
- A willingness to represent the Partnership externally
The Chair will:
- Provide impartial, strategic leadership
- Chair Executive and Partnership Committee meetings
- Chair the Forum
- Work closely with the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer and Partnership Team to shape agendas and Forum themes
- Contribute to developing topics, speakers, and engagement activities
- Guide and support discussions, ensuring balanced and inclusive participation
- Represent the Partnership at external meetings and events
- Champion collaborative working across organisations, projects, and communities
- Support the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer and ensure alignment with Partnership objectives
The Vice Chair will support the Chair and act as their deputy, following the same nomination and election process.
To apply for either the Chair or Vice Chair role, please submit:
- A covering letter outlining:
- why you wish to apply
- what skills, experience, or perspectives you would bring
- how you would support the Partnership’s aims
Send Applications to: Exeestuary-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
Application Deadline: Wednesday the 1st April 2026
Start Date: End of April 2026
Voting will take place by the Executive and Partnership committee via secret ballot (electronic or in‑person), overseen by the Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer. All Executive and Partnership Committee members will be eligible to vote.
For more information or an informal discussion about either role, please contact: Exeestuary-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
 Exe Estuary Mangement Partnership Autumn Forum In Action
Exe Estuary Management Partnership Autumn Stakeholder Forum 2025
Reflections on an Engaging Evening of Discussions Regarding Shared Interests in the Future of the Estuary
The Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP) held its Autumn Forum on Monday 29th September 2025 at Ocean, Exmouth. The event, organised by Marine, Estuaries and Coastal Officer Bev Phillips, Chair of the Forum Ted Draper and Vice Chair of the Forum – Natasha Bradshaw brought together partners, organisations, and community members with a shared interest in the future of the estuary.
The Autumn Forum centred around two key themes shaping estuarine and coastal management locally: Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS) and Codes of Conduct. The timing of the event also coincided with the start of the Voluntary Wildlife Refuge season on the Exe Estuary, providing a timely opportunity to highlight the importance of protecting sensitive habitats, including the Exmouth Wildlife Refuge active from 15th September to 31st December.
The evening opened with welcomes from Ted Draper, Exe Forum Chair with attendees then hearing two focused presentations:
Local Nature Recovery Strategy
Presenter: Sarah Jennings – County Ecologist, Devon County Council
Sarah introduced LNRS as a new statutory tool under the Environment Act 2021, explaining how these strategies will help identify priority areas for nature recovery, habitat creation, and improved land management.
Codes of Conduct
Presenter: Claire Spence – Wildlife Warden, South East Devon Wildlife
They explored how existing estuary codes are working in practice and discussed the development of a new code relating to personal aircraft use on the Exe, which the EEMP has created on their behalf.
Workshops
Attendees then took part in two interactive workshops on LNRS and Codes of Conduct. Participants were free to engage in both discussions, focus on one topic, or make use of the space to network informally.
Additional updates
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Summer on the Exe – Grahame Manchester, Harbour Master’s Team
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Lower Otter Restoration Project – Dr Sam Bridgewater, Clinton Estates
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EEMP Future Governance – Martin Hutchings, Head of Flood & Coastal Risk Management, Devon County Council
Attendance and Reflections
Overall, it was a pleasant evening with constructive discussion and strong engagement from those who attended. The workshops, in particular, generated thoughtful contributions, and feedback highlighted that people valued having the chance to take part in open discussion.
However, we were disappointed with the final turnout. Although 85 free tickets were booked and fully allocated, only 45 attendees arrived, with just one apology received.
Given that the EEMP operates with very limited funding and staff capacity, this was understandably disheartening. As a result, we have taken this into account when considering how future forums and engagement events will be delivered. Organising events of this scale requires significant time and resources, and we must ensure that our efforts reflect meaningful levels of participation.
Following the event, we also received feedback that some local councillors were unable to attend due to a clash with a council meeting. We will take this into consideration when setting dates for future forums. However, this does not explain the high number of registered attendees who did not attend on the night.
Despite the turnout challenges, the Autumn Forum proved to be a positive and productive event. Attendees engaged enthusiastically with the workshops, provided valuable insights, and shared constructive feedback. The discussions will feed into ongoing work across the estuary, supporting the development of LNRS workstreams, refinement of Codes of Conduct, and improvements to governance processes.
We thank everyone who joined us and contributed to the evening. Your involvement remains vital to shaping the future of the Exe Estuary.
 Pupils Getting Stuck in During the 2025 Cycle of our Educational Session
New Educational Series Launching in 2026
The Exe Estuary Management Partnership School Sessions Have Been Updated in an Exe-citing New Format
The Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP) is pleased to announce the launch of a new educational series for schools, rolling out in 2026. The previous educational sessions implemented interactive learning though outdoor engagement at Exmouth local nature reserve. Whereas this new programme has been designed to deepen pupils’ understanding of the Exe Estuary while supporting curriculum learning and school climate action goals.
The educational series is structured so that schools engage with three linked educational sessions surrounding one topic. These include two classroom-based sessions followed by one outdoor session on or around the Exe Estuary. Each session builds on the knowledge gained in the previous one, with the final outdoor visit providing real-world context and hands-on learning to reinforce classroom teaching. The series offers three themed topics for schools to choose from, with each session surrounding a different subject within each topic. An example of the series topic themes and session content includes, The Natural Environment Series, The History and Heritage Series, and The Climate Change Series.
One Overview of the Series Topic:
The Climate Change Series
Session 1: Journey Around the Estuary – This session explores the different choices of traveling around the estuary, and their importance to the environment. With the Exe Estuary Trail providing context for how to access green travel options.
Session 2: The Estuary’s Natural Environment – This session focuses on the what, how, and why aspects of estuary animals living in certain estuarine habitats. Touching on the threats they face within their habitats, and how they indicate this.
Session 3: Vulnerable Areas of the Estuary – This is an outdoor session located at a vulnerable area of the Estuary. It is an interactive session with the environment setting and providing real life context to the what and why aspects that make an area vulnerable.
Making the Series Applicable and Relevant
The sessions have been aligned alongside educational curriculums, ensuring that schools gain clear educational value from participating. Learning outcomes are embedded throughout the programme, supporting pupils’ knowledge development, and environmental awareness.
In addition to curriculum links, participation in the series can contribute towards schools’ Climate Action Plans. Engaging with education around climate change, and sustainable practices helps schools demonstrate meaningful action and learning in response to the climate emergency. The programme encourages pupils to think about how human activity impacts the estuary and how positive actions can help protect this vital environment.
Delivering the New Educational Series
The EEMP educational series is designed to be engaging, interactive, and inspiring. It offers pupils the opportunity to learn both in the classroom and outdoors, while fostering a stronger connection to their local environment.
We are delighted to report that several schools have already expressed interest in taking part. Schools that would like to find out more or register their interest are encouraged to get in touch.
For further information, please contact the Marine, Estuaries, and Coastal Support Officer at: Exeestuary-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
 Charlotte Smith in the Countryfile Episode at Exmouth Marina
Exe-citing Countryfile Spotlight on the Exe Estuary
Did you Catch the Countryfile Episode that Aired at the Start of this Year Spotlighting the Exe Estuary?
Just before Christmas, the team from Countryfile headed to Devon to film a special feature on the beautiful Exe Estuary. On Sunday 18th of January viewers were treated to the results of the filming when the episode aired on BBC One.
The programme, presented by Charlotte Smith and Adam Henson, explored the communities working tirelessly to protect this remarkable landscape where the Exe River meets the sea. The Exe Estuary is one of the UK’s most important wildlife havens, particularly during the winter months when vast numbers of wading birds gather on its mudflats and surrounding marshes.
Wildlife, Winter Wonders, and Waterways
Charlotte took to the water with the local harbourmaster Grahame Forshaw, and his team, offering a unique perspective on the estuary’s busy waterways. Showcasing their daily inspections of the waterways and discussing how their work changes throughout the year with the influx of water users during the summer months. With up to 2,000 boats moored within the estuary during peak seasons, and an average of 300 boat movements a day, requiring daily monitoring, the harbourmaster and his team work tirelessly to keep all water users, including the birds, safe.
Charlotte also took a trip on Stuart Line Cruises with local birdwatchers spotlighting the popular recreation of ‘birding’ that draws in many visitors to the estuary each year. Particularly, when rare species are spotted within the estuary, visitor numbers increase, and this year one ‘birder’, Grahame Madge, spotted a Lesser-crested Turn which has not been recorded in Devon since the mid-1980s. A reminder of the significance of this habitat and how striking a balance between conservation and recreation is so important for the sustainability of the estuary.
Adam visited the next generation of the Dart family running Darts Farm located by the Clyst tributary that feeds into the Exe Estuary. Focusing on how the farm utilises the seasonal flooding of the tributary during the winter months, and how they adapt their farming strategies during this period. By encouraging the flooding, they shrink their farmland by 40 acres and create further wetland habitats for wintering birds visiting the estuary.
Conservation in Action
Winter is a particularly spectacular time on the estuary. As highlighted in coverage of the episode, the colder months see dramatic flocks rising and wheeling across the sky, with the estuary serving as a crucial refuge when northern Europe freezes. The water, mudflats and surrounding fields together create a rich feeding ground for winter life, and the tens of thousands of birds that visit each year.
Adam spent time with our partners South East Devon Wildlife spotlighting their dedication to safeguarding the estuary and its wildlife. Reflecting on the strong partnership approach that underpins the observation in the area, that we are proud to be a part of. Heading out with South East Devon wildlife’s, Neil Harris (Habitat Regulations Delivery Manager), and Claire Spence (Wildlife warden) on their patrol boat, we saw how the team protect the wintering wildlife from disturbance highlighting their ‘Share The Space’ approach to estuary management. Asking the public and water users to avoid the wildlife refuges around Exmouth and Dawlish during the months of December to March. The episode also showed their engagement pop-ups located onshore around the refuge, run by Katie Jones (Wildlife Warden) and Lauren Turner (Marine, Estuaries, and Costal Support Officer) during the episode, aiming to educate the public on the importance of avoiding the refuges during this period.
Adam also visited a brand-new nature reserve, Yonder Oak Wood, where an innovative approach to conservation is underway. Where the Woodland Trust have planted around 18,000 trees for a woodland creation project. As well as the creation of ‘Frankenstein’ trees using dead and decaying wood to create tree like structures, making new habitats and boosting biodiversity. It was a powerful example of how thoughtful land management can encourage wildlife to thrive.
Investigating Domestic Abuse in Rural Communities
Alongside the environmental focus, the programme included a hard-hitting report investigating domestic abuse in rural communities, asking whether support systems are adequately serving those in the countryside. Highlighting some tough data, the episode noted that domestic abuse victims from rural areas are half as likely to report abuse than victims located in urban areas, so on average in rural areas the abuse lasts about 25% longer. It was an impactful reminder that rural life, while often idyllic, can also present unique social challenges. You can get information and support for some of the issues raised within this episode at BBC Action Line or call on 088000 888 809 where lines are open 24 hours a day, free of charge.
Showcasing a Local Treasure to a National Audience
Broadcasted at 6pm on Sunday 18th of January, the episode brought the Exe Estuary to a nationwide audience, celebrating both its natural beauty and the dedication of the people who care for it. A fitting tribute to one of Devon’s most treasured landscapes, that we are immensely proud to be a part of.
For those who missed it, the programme is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
 South East Devon Visitor Survey
Help Shape the Future of South East Devon’s Wild Spaces
Have you recently visited the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve, Exe Estuary, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish Countryside Park, or Ridgetop Park?
South East Devon Wildlife, which helps to protect these spaces, wants to hear about your experience!
Whether you’re tackling trails, fishing along the estuary, or strolling through the countryside, South East Devon Wildlife wants to know how you enjoy our area’s natural spaces.
Share your feedback by 30th April to help us enhance visitor experiences and protect these essential landscapes.
South East Devon Wildlife works to protect internationally important nature reserves for future generations, working for East Devon, Exeter and Teignbridge councils, in partnership with Natural England, the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and the Exe Estuary Management Partnership.
Understanding how people use and value these spaces is essential in ensuring they remain healthy and accessible for future generations, and are not impacted by increasing recreational pressures.
This survey is you chance to feedback and inform decision about how these sites are manged, in relation to access, conservation, and education, helping to balance public enjoyment with wildlife protection.
Complete the survey to share your visits, map your routes, and tell us what matters to you. Your insights will shape how we care for these landscapes.
To complete the survey, visit SEDW Survey
 Latest Designs of the Exmouth Eco Action Tuk Tuk
Eco Action in Exmouth
The Delivery of Exmouth Town Council's Award-winning Climate Strategy is Well Underway
As part of Exmouth Town Council’s award-winning Climate Strategy, we’re taking climate and nature action directly into the community with a new electric mobile eco hub.
A recycled Italian tuk-tuk, sourced locally from Tukxi in Axminster, is being sustainably refurbished and fitted with solar panels to create a bright, engaging learning space on wheels. The solar-powered tuk-tuk will visit school fairs, festivals, sports days, and other local events across Exmouth. Painted orange and blue like the Exmouth Cup, you won't be able to miss it!
Powered by the Sun and Fuelled by Community!
This mobile eco hub will share practical, affordable advice on key themes including nature, waste, food, energy and transport. With interactive displays and accessible information, it will promote active travel, plant-based food choices, retrofit projects and reusable initiatives such as the Exmouth Cup scheme, reusable period products and our Real Nappy campaign.
While Exmouth’s static eco hubs continue to grow, this mobile version will allow us to reach more communities and connect with residents who may not otherwise engage. We’ll be listening as much as talking — gathering ideas, answering questions and encouraging volunteering, biodiversity projects and community-led action.
Coming to a Street Corner Near You!
From celebrating local green spaces to offering advice on tree planting, rewilding or reducing household waste, the tuk-tuk will be both a showcase for sustainable transport and a practical tool for empowering Exmouth to ‘tread more lightly’ and shape its own net-zero future.
For more information about Exmouth Town Council's Climate and Nature strategy, please check their website or contact Climate Officer Zoey Cooper: zoey.cooper@exmouth.gov.uk
 Clair (SEDW Wildlife Warden), Elaine (Let Birds Be Competition Winner), Amanda (Stuart Line Cruises)
Stuart Line Cruises and South East Devon Wildlife Collaborations
Strong Collaboration Between These Organisation Has Lead to Greater Protection for the Exe Estuary's Wintering Wildlife
The winter season saw collaboration and partnership working at its peak, with organisations such as South East Devon Wildlife and Stuart Line Cruises working together to protect the wintering birds that rely on the Estuary each winter season.
An update by South East Devon Wildlife
Last year’s Exmouth Wildlife Refuge, active from 15 September to 31 December was one of the most successful yet. South East Devon Wildlife’s Wardens reported the least disturbance they’ve witnessed for the season, thanks to exceptional public cooperation. Brent geese, wigeon and dunlin are among the overwintering birds who were given the space to rest and feed for longer before undertaking their huge migrations north.
Alongside this positive refuge season, the Let Birds Be competition helped reinforce responsible behaviour across the estuary. Running from September to November, the monthly prize draw attracted more than 1,200 entries. The competition used a series of quiz questions to encourage participants to avoid the Exmouth and Dawlish Warren Wildlife Refuges during sensitive periods. Three winners - Michael, Elaine and Sue - received guided Stuart Line birdwatching cruises for two and FSC winter bird guides. Their excitement to see species up-close such as curlews and avocets reflects the public appreciation for the estuary’s unique wildlife.
Together, record low disturbance levels, strengthened engagement, and the success of the Let Birds Be campaign highlight a community deeply committed to protecting overwintering birds. With low disturbance at feeding grounds, more self-aware user groups, and the continued presence of Wildlife Wardens, the Exe Estuary continues to thrive as one of the UK’s most important wintering sites - supporting more than 20,000 migratory birds to return safely to their breeding grounds year after year.
A Reflection on the ‘Let Birds Be’ Campaign
As another winter season on the Exe Estuary draws to a close, all of us at Stuart Line Cruises have been reflecting on the vital importance of the ‘Let Birds Be’ initiative. Our estuary is far more than just a beautiful backdrop; it is a global service station for thousands of migratory birds that rely on these specific mudflats for their very survival.
Working alongside South East Devon Wildlife, we have seen first-hand how much of a difference the designated Wildlife Refuges at Exmouth Duck Pond and Dawlish Warren make. These areas provide a sanctuary where birds can rest and feed undisturbed - a critical necessity when you consider that a single 'flush' caused by human presence can cost a bird the vital energy it needs to survive, especially after a long migration.
While our business is built on sharing the beauty of this region, we believe that education and conservation must come first. The ‘Let Birds Be’ campaign, led by South East Devon Wildlife, has been invaluable in fostering a culture of respect among all water users. By observing the exclusion zones and keeping a distance, something our Guided Bird Watching Cruises offer naturally, we ensure that the Exe remains a thriving, world-class habitat.
The diversity of life on the estuary is a delicate balance. We are proud to support the work of the Marine, Estuaries, and Costal Officers and Wildlife Wardens who protect these feeding grounds. As we move into the spring, we encourage everyone to carry the spirit of this campaign forward: let us enjoy our stunning coastline while ensuring the birds have the space they need to thrive.
The Exe belongs to all of us, but for the winter, it truly belongs to the birds.
 Stuart Line Cruises Guided Bird Watching Cruise
Stuart Line Cruises: A Great Way to Explore the Exe Estuary
Stuart Line Cruises Operates All Year Round, Promoting the Glorious Landscape that is the Exe Estuary
They offer seasonal themed events and special day events throughout the year, alongside their regular cruises.
During the colder months they offer Winter Cruises around the estuary, departing from Exmouth Marina, these circular cruises travel along the peaceful waters of the estuary to Powderham Castle and along to the mouth of the estuary at Exmouth seafront. Indoor heated lower deck have large windows which are great for viewing estuary wildlife, and outside upper decks with plenty of fresh air and blankets.
During the autumn and winter months they also offer Guided Bird Watching Cruises, ideal for anyone wanting to see the many thousands of birds that migrate to the area o rest and feed in the estuary.
Check out the Stuart Line Website for more information on the amazing cruises they offer, you won't be disappointed!
Follow their Instagram and Facebook pages to keep updated and informed on the fantastic cruises and events they offer throughout the year.
Exe Press: Newsletter Distribution
Have Your Say on How You Would Like to Receive Our Newsletter!
A few years ago we made the decision to shift this newsletter to digital only. We want to know if you think we should keep it that way! Please answer three short questions about the Exe Press Distribution, we would love to hear your views.
Exe Press: Newsletter Distribution Survey
We look forward to reviewing you responses and improving the accessibility of our newsletter, with your contributions we can continue to develop how we increase connectivity around the Exe Estuary and wider community.
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