ExoRock Surface Texture Trial
➤ 2020-2021 ➤ Brightlingsea, Essex ➤ Environment Agency ➤ JN Bentley
Problem
In the early stages of Exo Engineering, we faced significant knowledge gaps about which textures would best appeal to marine life. We knew that sheer, smooth surfaces represented poor opportunities for biocolonisation, but we lacked understanding about which alternatives surfaces and textures would be most beneficial.
Solution
In collaboration with the Environment Agency, Exo Engineering deployed 32 ExoRock units as part of pilot testing at Moverons Farm in Brightlingsea, Essex. This collaboration allowed us to assess the extent of biocolonisation the units would experience over one growth season from 2020-2021, while providing erosion protection for a dirt bank and its failing Canewdon block wall. These initial concepts sported a variety of textures on each side, providing us with as much data as possible on the influence each texture had on pioneer settlement.
Results
A year after deployment, the results were incredibly promising. The ExoRocks had been extensively colonised with an array of species, representing a great success for the team and demonstrating the bioreceptive capabilities of our units. Exo Engineering will use these findings to build confidence among our clients, evidencing that our Nature Inclusive Designs are effective at encouraging settlement of pioneer species.
The success of this project permitted us to expand the designs we use for our range of ExoArmours, carrying forward the most successful surface textures. These kinds of Nature Inclusive Designs not only provide much-needed habitats for coastal species, but can also help developers to achieve their Biodiversity Net Gain responsibilities.
