Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening at East Head?
Events change quickly at East Head, the sand dunes at the entrance to Chichester Harbour. The East Head page gives up to date information and lots of background details and photographs.
Should I worry about Bird Flu? / What should I do if I see a dead bird?
See our guidance sheet for more information.
Why do I often see dead cuttlefish washed up on the shoreline?
Around June, cuttlefish breed, the female only breed once, and they die soon after laying their eggs.Sad but true.
Why do I see lots of dead crabs on the shoreline?
These aren't dead crabs but shells they have grown out of. As crabs grow they discard their shells which look complete and are often mistaken for dead crabs.
Is anything being done about the floating green weed in the harbour?
This weed is largely generated as a result of excessive nutrients in the water. (Technically seaweeds are algae, in this case Enteromorpha species.) It is particularly prominent in summer because it grows well in warmth and sunlight. The Conservancy recognises that it is a problem for boat users, and also when it washes ashore as it is unsightly and smelly, and for wildlife, as it smothers intertidal plants and animals.
However, as the root cause is the nutrients it is not something that the Conservancy can deal with on its own. Research by the Environment Agency has shown that over 90% of nutrients in the harbour come in through the harbour entrance. The other small contributions are made by the sewage treatment plants, the streams feeding into the harbour which receive inputs from further afield and 'diffuse' pollution from around the shore.
The EA as the responsible agency are taking steps to improve the situation; any enquiry or comment should be addressed to: Peter Midgley Environment Agency Saxon House Little High Street Worthing West Sussex BN11 1DH
How do I advertise in the Harbour News?
Contact Ali Beckett for a media pack. Rates start from £140 for a quarter page advert. Bookings are taken from July and are usually sold out by September.
Who manages Pagham Harbour?
Contact West Sussex County Council at County Hall or Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve Visitor Centre on 01243 641508
Who manages wildfowling in Chichester Harbour?
Wildfowling is managed by the Chichester Harbour Wildfowlers. See the wildfowlers section.
How can I get involved in voluntary work?
There are lots of opportunities for people to work with the Conservancy on a voluntary basis. See the Getting Involved section.
How can I or my son/daughter arrange to do work experience at the harbour office?
We take a limited number of students each year on work experience programmes. See the work experience section.
How can I get a copy of one of the harbour information boards? AND Who makes the harbour information boards?
Contact Neil Pafford, Designline, Jubilee House. Park Way, Havant, Hants, PO9 1HH
023 9249 2999 http://www.designline-graphics.co.uk
Who make up the Harbour Conservancy?
The Conservancy consists of 15 members. See the leaflet Chichester Harbour Conservancy or for a list of current members see the section Committee Members.
What is an AONB?
AONB stands for Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is just one of the many designations that work to protect the harbour. For more information see the section on Harbour Designations.
How can I see the agenda and minutes for the Conservancy and Advisory meetings?
The agenda and minutes are regularly posted on the Committee section of this website.
How can I purchase harbour dues?
Harbour dues are on sale from the Harbour Office or the patrol staff afloat. You can download an application form from this site and send it to the Harbour Office. You will then receive a harbour dues plaque that needs to be affixed to your boat to show you have paid.
What is the best way to get over Chichester Bar?
The bar is normally dredged to approximately 1.5m below chart datum to give a depth of 2m at mean low water springs. For more information see the navigation section.
Someone has hit / stolen my boat - who should I report it to?
Stolen vessels should be reported to either Chichester or Havant police. Please also complete an incident report and we will aim to help you once we have the details.
How can I get a mooring in Chichester Harbour?
The Conservancy have about 600 maintained moorings which are let on a yearly basis. Mooring sites are also available where you provide your own mooring tackle. Contact the moorings officer with any questions. Alternatively try the marinas and boatyards for moorings.
Where can I learn to sail in Chichester Harbour?
There are a number of sailing clubs and schools. See the list under sailing clubs and schools.
How do I join the Friends of Chichester Harbour?
The membership is £5 per year, though many people donate more. See the Friends website for more details.
Are there any jobs available with Chichester Harbour Conservancy?
Occasionally permanent jobs become available. We also take on a number of seasonal staff for patrol and ranger duties. See the Harbour Staff section for current details.
How do I arrange for a school visit to Chichester Harbour?
Have a look through the information on the Learning Zone, the contact our Education Team.
Where is the Harbour Office?
We are located by the water in the village of Itchenor. Click here for directions and a map.
Any other questions?
Either email yur query to the Harbour Office or try the Harbour Forum.
