A NEW scientific study has revealed the distinct and ecologically significant nature of Milford Haven’s maerl beds, shedding fresh light on how one of Wales’ most fragile underwater habitats can be protected for the future.

Maerl beds are slow-growing, coral-like accumulations of red algae that form intricate structures on the seabed. These habitats support a wide range of marine species and act as important stores of blue carbon, helping absorb and lock away carbon dioxide.

The research, led by the University of Exeter with contributions from Natural Resources Wales (NRW), used Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to analyse maerl samples from Pembrokeshire to Cornwall. The data allowed scientists to assess genetic diversity across the region and identify the populations most at risk from environmental pressures and human activity.

Crucially, the study found that Milford Haven’s maerl bed is genetically distinct from other sites, underlining its uniqueness and highlighting the need for site-specific protection.

Dr Frances Ratcliffe, Senior Marine Environmental Assessment Officer for NRW, said:
“This research highlights the unique nature of the maerl bed in Milford Haven, showing it to be both highly genetically diverse and distinct from other populations in the wider region.
“We’re delighted to have contributed to this work, which makes the case for protecting this special habitat even stronger. Sadly, the bed is currently in a degraded state, and we hope the findings will help inform future efforts to safeguard these vital ecosystems for generations to come.”

Dr Tom Jenkins, the project lead, added: “This is the first research project to assemble reference genomes for two maerl-forming species and use Whole Genome Sequencing to study populations around the southern and south-west coasts of Britain.
“It reveals levels of genetic diversity and identifies populations dominated by maerl clones, which together could have implications for their vulnerability and resilience to future changes in climate and the environment.”

NRW is also leading a wider project examining declines in benthic habitats — ecosystems found on or near the seabed — to strengthen Wales’ understanding of underwater biodiversity. This includes research into herring in Milford Haven, sponge communities in the Menai Strait, and modiolus horse mussel reefs off the north Llŷn Peninsula. The work is funded through the Welsh Government’s Nature Networks programme.

Broad Haven and Dale crews joined overnight response as Storm Claudia battered Wales

COASTGUARD volunteers from Broad Haven and Dale were among those praised for their role in rescuing residents during severe flooding in Monmouth as Storm Claudia brought chaos across Wales.

The HM Coastguard Area 13 Flood Team, made up of officers and trained volunteers from across South and West Wales, worked through the night on Friday and Saturday (Nov 14–15) to evacuate people trapped by rising water.

Among those deployed were Simon Ashton, from Dale Coastguard, and Daniel Church, from Broad Haven Coastguard. The pair joined colleagues from Penarth, Cardigan, Mumbles, Port Talbot, and Porthcawl as part of a multi-agency response involving fire, police, and ambulance services.

A message from NCI Wooltack Point commended the local effort, saying: “Well done Simon & Dan, teamwork all round.”

Major incident declared
A major incident was declared in Monmouth in the early hours of Saturday after “severe and widespread” flooding affected the town and surrounding communities. Firefighters and coastguard crews carried out rescues, evacuations, and welfare checks throughout the night, as up to a month’s rainfall fell in just 24 hours.

The Fire Brigades Union said fire and rescue services were “stretched to the limit” as Storm Claudia triggered more than 80 flood-related callouts overnight across South Wales.

Tireless efforts
HM Coastguard said its flood teams worked “tirelessly through the night” in difficult conditions, rescuing stranded residents and supporting emergency partners on the ground.

Area 13 Flood Team members included:
Rhodri Wake (Area Commander), Tom Larkin and Steve Matthews (Senior Coastal Operations Officers), Richard Hoyle (Chepstow), Keith Smith (Penarth), Richard Davies (Cardigan), Ricki Criger (Llantwit Major), Ellie Goss (Mumbles), Simon Ashton (Dale), Patrick Martin (Port Talbot), Jonathan Runnels (Porthcawl), Daniel Church (Broad Haven), and Mark Parkin (Duty Coastal Officer).

AS WORLD leaders gather for COP30 in Brazil this November to address the global climate crisis, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is taking local action by opening the latest round of Sustainable Development Fund applications.

The Fund offers grants of up to £25,000 for community-led projects in and around the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park that reduce carbon emissions and help respond to the climate emergency.

Recent beneficiaries demonstrate the diverse range of projects the Fund supports. Southern Roots Organics (Awen Organics) in North Pembrokeshire received a grant of £12,400 to install solar panels, achieving 100% energy self-sufficiency within the first week and saving an estimated 2.6 tonnes of CO₂e annually. Already a net carbon-sequestering farm, the project enabled further emissions reductions while supporting their mission to grow high-quality organic produce and model a healthy, sustainable local food system.

Ocean Lab Goodwick, which hosts the Sea Trust Wales charity, was awarded £21,470 to install a 12.6 kWp solar PV system. The installation, completed in January 2025, is expected to significantly cut emissions and energy costs, allowing the charity to reinvest savings into vital community and conservation initiatives.

Nadia Tomsa from Sea Trust Wales said: “Despite numerous obstacles, the Ocean Lab PV project was completed thanks to strong teamwork and support from SDF. We’re proud to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and climate action, and we look forward to sharing the benefits of clean energy with our community.”

The installation also serves as a visible example of renewable energy in action, engaging local groups including the Repair Cafe and Youth Marine Biology Club.

Cilrath Acre, the charity behind Pembrokeshire Foodbank, received SDF support to install a compost toilet, enhancing comfort, hygiene and accessibility for volunteers and visitors. The project enhances the site’s sustainability while improving community wellbeing and creating opportunities for volunteers to engage with nature and regenerative land practices.

Applicants can apply for projects that deliver measurable carbon reduction outcomes. Projects may include installing renewable energy generation facilities such as solar panels on community buildings; initiatives to promote reduction in transport emissions such as electric charging points; community facilities that minimise waste such as water fountains; or other community-based carbon reduction initiatives.

The Sustainable Development Fund consists of money allocated from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and Welsh Government Sustainable Landscapes Sustainable Places Fund. Note, this fund is for capital expenditure only.

For information about eligibility, how to apply, and the application form, visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/sdf or contact [email protected].

The deadline for applications is the end of Friday 5 December 2025.