Moor Trees marks 25 years with summer walks exploring Dartmoor’s ancient woodlands

A Devon-based conservation charity is launching a series of guided walks and talks this summer to mark its 25th anniversary and raise awareness about the importance of native woodland restoration on Dartmoor.

Moor Trees, which has been working since 2000 to re-establish native broadleaf woodland in the region, will be hosting events throughout the season in collaboration with local experts, landowners, and environmental specialists.

The aim is to inform and inspire the public about the significance of ancient woodlands and temperate rainforests, both of which are under threat but remain vital for biodiversity, carbon storage, and natural flood management.

Moor Trees collects seeds locally and raises saplings in its community tree nurseries, using them to create new habitats across Dartmoor.

The charity’s long-term goal is to contribute to a more nature-rich, tree-covered landscape by 2050.

As part of the initiative, it works to connect woodland corridors, integrate trees into the farmed environment, and support projects that reduce water runoff and enhance climate resilience.

The summer programme begins with a walk on Friday 6 June at Harford Moor, exploring the upper catchment of the River Erme.

Participants will learn about natural flood management techniques, peatland restoration, and one of Dartmoor’s rare fragments of temperate rainforest.

The walk will be led by local guide Dartmoor’s Daughter, with input from experts involved in the Dartmoor Headwaters Natural Flood Management Project and Moor Trees volunteers who planted trees at the site earlier this year.

The second event takes place on Friday 1 August at Shaugh Prior and focuses on Dartmoor’s rainforest habitat.

Led by lichenologist April Windle and photographer Tom Dauben, the walk invites participants to observe both the minute and the panoramic, from mosses and lichens to the broader woodland ecology. The event also includes a photography element, with advice on capturing the moor’s natural light and a prize for the best image shared on social media.

A third event is planned for later in the summer, with details yet to be confirmed.

Moor Trees hopes the anniversary walks will encourage more people to learn about and support its work.

A spokesperson said the events are designed to get people "talking about the change we are making and wish to see,” adding that sharing the story of woodland recovery is a key part of building momentum for nature restoration across the UK.

More information and booking details are available via the charity’s social media channels and website.