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The battle for conservation will go on endlessly. It is part of the universal battle between right and wrong.
(John Muir. John Muir Papers, 1858-1957)
Coastal erosion, pollution, litter, fly tipping, vandalism, oil spills and controlling invasive species are just a few of the problems the Park has had to face in its first 30 years.
Endangered life
Sea buckthorn, recorded in the area in the 1920s, has proved effective against erosion. It also provides a bird habitat. Clumps however have been controlled annually as the fast spreading suckers lead to nettles and ground ivy which in turn replace natural flora. Volunteer groups help in this conservation work.
Fencing, stones, lyme grass and in particular marram grass have been used to combat erosion. Marram grass with its tough creeping roots has been successful, stabilising sand in the Spike Island and dune areas.
Around the Seafield area efforts have been made to eradicate giant hogweed which causes a severe rash on contact with the skin. Invasive species, often simple bulbs or garden plants, have also been removed, their presence posing a threat to native plants.
Pond Life
Four legged pests such as moles and rabbits, whose burrows can damage fragile habitats, have also had to be controlled. Others creatures have been encouraged. Volunteers have assisted with improving the pond area at Hedderwick, on the site of the earlier lifeboat slipway.
The coastline to the west of Dunbar is rich in geological features. Sampling and recording by the British Geological Survey provides information on changes in sea level and erosion.
Human activity has left its mark on the landscape. In 1989 the Naval Bomb Disposal team were called when visitors discovered a live mortar. A controlled explosion was carried out.
Wilkie Haugh, quarried 200 years ago, required remedial work right in to the 1970s.
For over ten years Belhaven Bay has been awarded a Tidy Britain Group Seaside Award.
