Clean & Protect

Marine Crime

The greatest issue of public concern regarding crime on the Dart Estuary, is theft and vandalism of boats and their equipment. Marinas and boatyards can offer a reassuring degree of security. The 'quiet areas' are part of the charm of the River Dart, but these can present a soft target for boat thieves. Patrolling all of the river, all of the time, is an almost impossible task for the Harbour Authority staff and local police, who work in close liaison.

One way in which local boat owners can be actively involved in tackling this issue, is to become a local volunteer patrol person. The evidence suggests that most boat theft originates from outside the local area. Volunteer patrols can provide a much needed 'eyes and ears' assistance to the authorities by monitoring suspicious or unusual activity. Under a scheme co-ordinated by DHNA, experienced local yachtsmen can be recruited and trained to play this useful role. While on patrol, volunteers can also monitor other infringements to harbour rules such as speeding, reckless behaviour or acts of pollution - as well as just lending a helping hand when needed.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer river patroller (summer season) contact DHNA or call DEEM for guidance.

Find out how DEEM aims to help deal with marine crime in the Dart estuary by reading this extract from the Management Plan. The full plan can be downloaded at the end of the extract.

The full original plan can be downloaded at the end of the extract, however the latest 2006-2011 Periodic Review Dart Estuary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) can also be downloaded here. It is closely linked with the Management Plan for the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has a five year horizon.

The plan's guiding principles provide the context in which the aims are achieved and the actions carried out.