Steart

Steart is a small coastal village located in Somerset, England. It lies on the western edge of Stert Island and is situated near the village of Burnham-on-Sea. The area is known for its salt marshes and mudflats, which are part of the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve. This environment is crucial for wading birds and other wildlife.

Historically, Steart has been associated with coastal defense and has seen various infrastructure projects aimed at managing the coastline and its associated erosion. The Steart Marshes, a large-scale habitat restoration project, has transformed former agricultural land into a thriving wetland ecosystem. This project, undertaken by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT), aims to improve biodiversity, provide flood defense, and offer recreational opportunities.

The village itself is relatively small, with limited amenities. Its primary characteristic is its close proximity to the Bristol Channel and the unique estuarine environment. Access to Steart is often by a single road, which can be affected by tidal conditions. The landscape is dominated by open skies, vast expanses of salt marsh, and the presence of the sea. It is a location that appeals to nature enthusiasts and those interested in coastal ecology.