The Severn Estuary, located on the southwest coast of Britain, is where three major rivers—the Severn, Wye, and Avon—meet the sea. Renowned for its immense tidal range, the second highest in the world, and its distinctive funnel shape, the Severn Estuary is a rare and remarkable natural feature both in the UK and globally.
This dynamic estuary is home to a rich tapestry of natural, cultural, and geographical wonders. It is managed and enjoyed by a wide range of organisations, communities, and individuals, reflecting its importance as both a natural habitat and a place of cultural significance.
Due to its unique characteristics and biodiversity, the Severn Estuary is protected by several conservation designations. To learn more, please visit our Habitats and Species page.
Founded in 1998, ASERA was created to help Relevant Authorities work together to meet their legal responsibilities under the Habitats Directive. Rather than tackling these complex duties alone, member authorities join forces through ASERA to manage the estuary’s unique habitats and wildlife more effectively and efficiently.
By pooling resources and expertise, ASERA provides a cost-effective solution that benefits both the environment and the organisations responsible for its care. Today, ASERA represents the majority of Relevant Authorities on the Severn Estuary, driving collaboration and coordinated action to protect one of Britain’s most extraordinary natural assets.
ASERA’s primary focus is the development and maintenance of a unified management scheme for the Severn Estuary European Marine Site (EMS). This scheme ensures that the activities of the Relevant Authorities are coordinated to meet the conservation requirements outlined in the European Habitats and Birds Directives, safeguarding the estuary’s unique habitats and species for future generations.
ASERA is made up of 19 organisations, each playing a vital role in managing and protecting the Severn Estuary.
Our members are:
Each organisation brings unique expertise and resources to ensure the Severn Estuary is managed sustainably and responsibly.
ASERA is made up of 19 organisations, each playing a vital role in managing and protecting the Severn Estuary.
Our members are:
Each organisation brings unique expertise and resources to ensure the Severn Estuary is managed sustainably and responsibly.
The Severn Estuary is protected by a variety of nature conservation designations, highlighting the importance of its unique habitats and diverse species.
To learn more about these designations and the incredible landscape they protect, visit our Habitats and Species pages.
A wide range of resources are available to help you learn more about the Severn Estuary, covering a variety of topics from its natural environment to tackling disturbance on the coast.
