Farmers and Landowners meet in Postbridge to discuss Landscape Recovery

Dartmoor Farm Cluster hosted a gathering of newtake farmers and landowners on Wednesday 3 September, bringing together stakeholders from across their local project area for a morning of talks and a field visit. 

The event aimed to share knowledge, discuss priorities for the area, and consider what an ambitious Landscape Recovery scheme could look like for Dartmoor.

Speakers included representatives from the Collaborative Dartmoor Landscape Recovery (CDLR) initiative, as well as Jon Avon from the Duchy of Cornwall, who spoke about the ongoing Curlew and Waders Project. 

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The presentations set the scene for discussions on the future of land management and conservation in the upland environment.

Following the talks, attendees took part in a “walk and talk” session on Smith Hill and the Cherrybrook newtakes. 

Out in the field, Adrian Colston offered insight into Molinia grassland management, while Debs Deveney from the RSPB provided a wider perspective on bird populations and habitat needs.

Organisers said the event was a valuable opportunity for farmers, landowners, and conservation experts to exchange ideas and consider practical approaches to balancing farming with biodiversity recovery on Dartmoor.

Postbridge Village Hall hosted the meeting and Dartmoor Butchers provided pasties for those attending.