Funding secured for Dartmoor’s iconic ponies

The future of the Heritage Dartmoor Pony, an iconic yet endangered breed native to Dartmoor National Park, has received a significant boost with new funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT) announced the grant as a major step forward in their mission to protect and conserve this beloved breed. With only 300 Heritage Dartmoor Ponies remaining on Dartmoor, the breed is classified as "at risk" by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. The funding will enable the DPHT to begin a comprehensive conservation plan aimed at increasing the pony population, preserving genetic diversity, and raising awareness about their vital role in Dartmoor's ecology and heritage.

Mike Lithgow, chairman of the DPHT, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received this grant funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which is a massive vote of confidence in our charity and our work to protect the Heritage Dartmoor Pony. This funding will enable us to take our conservation efforts to the next level and make a real impact on the survival of this iconic breed.”

The grant will support key initiatives, including:

• Education and outreach: Development of online resources and educational programmes to engage schools and communities in conservation efforts.

• Conservation grazing: Strategies to manage biodiversity and combat invasive species such as purple moor grass.

• Collaboration with stakeholders: Working closely with hill farmers, conservationists, and organisations such as the Duchy of Cornwall.

• Community engagement: Hosting guided walks and consultation events to promote awareness and advocacy for the ponies.

The Dartmoor pony is an intrinsic part of Dartmoor’s landscape and cultural identity, with roots tracing back thousands of years. These ponies have historically played a role in local agriculture and land management, contributing to the biodiversity of the moor through conservation grazing.

Debbie Leach, who led the successful grant application, spoke about the breed’s significance: “Heritage Dartmoor Ponies are an intrinsic part of the fabric of Dartmoor National Park, and it is essential that we take action to protect them. This funding will enable us to do just that.”

The DPHT’s conservation plan will address the multiple challenges faced by the breed, including:

• Grazing restrictions: Ensuring ponies have adequate access to grazing land.

• Land ownership changes: Collaborating with new landowners to maintain suitable habitats.

• Market decline for geldings and colts: Promoting sustainable uses for surplus ponies.

The charity aims to increase the pony population to 500, the minimum number required to maintain genetic diversity and reduce risks of inbreeding.

The DPHT will also engage with a new Dartmoor-wide land use management group to ensure the ponies are included in future conservation and land management plans. Their work seeks to balance ecological preservation with cultural heritage, ensuring the ponies’ survival for future generations.

For more information about the Heritage Dartmoor Pony and how to support the DPHT’s work, visit dartmoorpony.com.