Dartmoor Nature Alliance launched to restore wildlife

The newly formed Dartmoor Nature Alliance (DNA) has announced its mission to restore the natural environment on Dartmoor, which they believe could become one of the best wildlife habitats in Europe. 

Despite significant public investment, the group claims that nature on Dartmoor is in a poor state, with only 16 per cent of its Sites of Special Scientific Interest in a favourable condition, according to last year’s Fursdon Review.

The DNA was established this week by local ecologists, environmental advocates, and land managers who are alarmed by the ongoing decline of wildlife in Dartmoor National Park.

The group emphasises the need for bold collaborations and innovative solutions to address the challenges facing Dartmoor's ecology.

Harry Barton, chairperson of the DNA, stated: “By every measure, nature on Dartmoor is in trouble and, despite years of investment, the situation is not improving. This is a National Park; nature should be flourishing here, but instead, across thousands of hectares, it’s in an appalling condition.”

With the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) currently underway, the DNA highlights Dartmoor’s importance in achieving national and global biodiversity targets, specifically the goal of restoring 30 per cent of land for nature by 2030. 

Mr Barton pointed out that, despite the UK government’s commitment to this target, only 2.93 per cent of land in England is effectively protected and well-managed for wildlife.

Last week, organisations including National Parks England and major wildlife charities reached out to the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Steve Reed MP, to advocate for a greener vision for the National Parks.

Tony Whitehead, a nature campaigner and member of the DNA’s core group, acknowledged the positive efforts to restore peatlands and the work of some farmers and conservation groups but stressed that these initiatives need to be expanded quickly to reverse the current situation.

“We recognise that there is some good work happening on Dartmoor, particularly the efforts to restore the peatlands, and by some farmers and other dedicated groups on Dartmoor. But this needs to be scaled up massively and urgently if we are to turn the fortunes of Dartmoor’s beleaguered wildlife around.

“We do not see commitment and ambition here from decision-makers. Instead, we see nature consistently considered as an afterthought and continually losing out, as part of dismal political compromises driven by small groups of vested interests that do not have nature’s interests as a priority. We want to change this; we want nature to have a strong voice and a vibrant future on Dartmoor.”

The DNA aims to promote sustainable land use that benefits both people and nature. 

Nick Viney, a regenerative farmer and DNA core group member, noted the potential of Dartmoor’s natural resources to enhance water security, nature-friendly farming, and community well-being.

He said: “Dartmoor’s nature offers us all a wealth of opportunities, be it water security, nature-friendly farming, or recreation and well-being. We want bold collaborations and imaginative solutions as demanded by these deeply challenging times in which we live”.

The DNA plans to provide leadership for nature on Dartmoor, collaborating with key figures to push for political change and implement transformative actions for a greener environment. Elena Grice, the group’s secretary, expressed a vision for Dartmoor as a thriving wildlife haven and encouraged public involvement in campaigning for nature conservation.

“Dartmoor has the potential to be one of the most outstanding places for wildlife in Europe. Our vision for Dartmoor is a place where nature is in the ascendancy. We know thousands of people share this vision, and we want them to be at the core of our work. We want as many people as possible to actively campaign for nature here, regardless of their background, knowledge, or skills. Dartmoor belongs to all of us, and we should all have the opportunity to have our say in how it is managed.”

The Dartmoor Nature Alliance is calling on the community to unite and work towards a future where Dartmoor’s wildlife flourishes, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem for generations to come.

To register interest in supporting DNA, people can email info@dartmoornature.org.uk