Working At Sea

For groups wanting to help rewild marine areas, a different challenge comes up. Most of the seabed around Scotland is owned by the monarch but managed by Crown Estate Scotland, a public body. Taking ownership of the seabed isn’t an option - but becoming more formally involved in managing the seabed is. Between 2021 and 2024, Orkney Islands Council had a trial partnership with Crown Estate Scotland to make decisions about the seabed around Orkney more democratic. Meanwhile, as the Scottish Government shapes the future of Scotland’s marine protected areas, there might be more opportunities for communities to influence how their local seas are managed. 

Activities may also be regulated by the Marine Directorate, NatureScot (if affecting biodiversity - planting seagrass, for example) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency or SEPA (if affecting water quality). Placing a structure such as an artificial reef may require a Marine Licence. 

Rewilding Britain explain how marine rewilding works on their website, include active interventions as well as passive interventions. You can also learn about marine rewilding projects around Britain, including The Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST), the Native Oyster Network and Seawilding.