Litter Picking 
on the Reserve

The Chesil Beach and Fleet Lagoon are habitats of national and international importance. Sadly, wind, tide and storms bring in litter, from plastic bottles to fishing gear. Removing it really can help, but on Chesil we must take extra care about how, when and where we do it.

The Reserve is not an ordinary beach clean site. Some areas are hard to reach, and the habitats are fragile. Walking over vegetation, pebbles or lichen-rich areas can cause damage and disturbance, even when people are trying to do the right thing. In some places, litter may be caught deep in scrub or close to wildlife, and trying to remove it can do more harm than good.

How you can help

Litter picking is a positive way to care for the coast, and we are always grateful for the support of volunteers. To help protect Chesil’s wildlife and habitats, organised litter picks should be planned with the Nature Reserve team in advance, ensuring they take place in suitable locations, at the right time of year, and with minimal disturbance.

• Please pick only in areas agreed with the Reserve.
• Make sure the organiser has an access permit.
• Keep groups small — no more than 10 people.
• Visit at recommended times of year and frequency.
• Bring suitable safety equipment and complete a risk assessment.
• Leave anything that is tangled deep in scrub, close to wildlife, or would mean disturbing habitat.
• Do not bring dogs or other animals onto Chesil or the Fleet shores during litter picks.

A Big Thank You to Volunteers

So far this year, we have been delighted to welcome groups from Wessex Water, Dorset Conservation Volunteers, East Fleet Farm and Weymouth and District Wildfowler Association, who have rolled up their sleeves for a number of litter picks on the Reserve. Together, they have collected over 72 bags of litter, as well as a large quantity of larger mixed items, including vehicle tyres, wrecked dinghies, tables and chairs, drums and containers, fishing gear, large plastic and metal items, and old buoys.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has given their time and energy to help care for Chesil. Carefully planned litter picks like these make a real, positive difference and help us protect the wildlife and habitats that make this place so special.

Inspired to organise a litter pick?

Please contact the Chesil and Fleet Nature Reserve first so that we can talk through permissions, timing, access and safety with you and help you plan a safe, positive day.