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29 Sept 2025

How you can help restore Dartmoor’s woodlands this October

Join Moor Trees and South West Lakes Trust in restoring Dartmoor's native woodland at Venford Reservoir - volunteer to support Devon’s temperate rainforest revival and enhance local biodiversity

Venford reservoir seed collecting Oct '24 Credit- Moor Trees

Venford reservoir seed collecting Oct '24 Credit- Moor Trees

Two environmental charities are marking their 25th anniversaries by joining forces for a special event on Dartmoor.

South West Lakes Trust and Moor Trees are inviting volunteers to Venford Reservoir on Sunday 12 October 2025 for a day of seed collecting. 

The event will support efforts to restore Dartmoor’s native woodland and help improve habitats for wildlife.

The reservoir site was once a commercial conifer plantation but after the trees were felled in 2023 the South West Lakes Trust have been working to restore the area with the help of Moor Trees and local volunteers. 

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Around 1,000 native trees have now been planted alongside areas of natural regeneration.

During the event, South West Lakes Trust staff will explain the history of the site and why the change from conifers to native woodland matters for nature and climate. 

In the afternoon, Moor Trees will lead the seed collecting in nearby woodland and moorland areas. 

Seeds such as acorns, hawthorn, blackthorn, holly, birch, and crab apples will later be grown at Moor Trees’ community nurseries before being replanted on Dartmoor.

James Platts, Chief Executive of South West Lakes Trust, said: “We are celebrating our 25th anniversary this year with a year-long programme of events. Fellow environmental charity Moor Trees are also celebrating their 25th anniversary, so it is a wonderful opportunity for us to mark this joint milestone with an event at Venford Reservoir.”

Helen Aldis, Chief Executive of Moor Trees, added: “Coming together on projects such as the restoration of Venford demonstrates the vital role of charities working in the landscape to create a mosaic of restored natural habitats for future generations to enjoy. If you love Dartmoor and love nature, we encourage you to come along and get involved.”

The free event begins at 10.30am and no prior experience is needed, refreshments will also be provided.

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