The Lower Otter Restoration Project is a managed realignment scheme that is restoring the Lower Otter Valley to more natural conditions. The project is being delivered because the existing 200-year-old sea defences were in danger of failing and were becoming increasingly hard to maintain. This was already impacting on public infrastructure, local businesses and homes, and recreational facilities. The river is being reconnected with its floodplain enabling the tide to come in and go out as it once did. The restored site will create 55 hectares of valuable estuarine habitat, mitigate the impacts of climate change and deliver benefits for people and for wildlife into the future. The major partners in the Lower Otter Restoration Project include Clinton Devon Estates, who own the land around the estuary, and the Environment Agency, the government body which has responsibility for improving resilience to climate change, flood defence, increasing biodiversity and improving habitats and water quality.

The tour will enable CLA members to walk the site and learn about the background to the project, its implementation and key features. It will be led by Rick Lockwood, Otter Estuary Ranger who is employed by the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust, on behalf of Clinton Devon Estate.

There will be lots of walking involved please ensure to wear sensible footwear and clothing.

Meet at the Otter Estuary carpark, South Farm Road, Budleigh Salterton, EX9 7AZ .                           What 3 Words- https://w3w.co/storm.perfumed.depending