The Association of Severn Estuary Relevant Authorities or ASERA are re-launching the Good Practice Guidelines, with updated guidance on flying drones within the Severn Estuary area.

The Good Practice Guidelines have been developed by the Association of Severn Estuary Relevant Authorities to promote sustainable use of the Severn Estuary by all. The resource raises awareness for the special features of the Severn Estuary European Marine Site and aims to inform on recreational activities that could cause harm to the site, making sure that the site is protected for our future generations.  

This guide includes recommendations for many popular activities on the Severn, including dog walking, birdwatching, angling, wildfowling, and boating. The re-release focuses on the new legislation surrounding the use of drones and their licensing. This update states that all fliers must carry their documents of ownership, and mark their drone with the operator ID. In addition, the Good Practice Guidelines outline Estuary-specific guidance on staying safe and minimising impact to the site, such as avoiding disturbance to resting, feeding, and nesting birds and sensitive habitats like saltmarsh and Sabellaria alveolata (honeycomb tubeworm) reefs.