A new report out today from the Campaign for National Parks – Health Check shows that even in our incredible National Parks, nature needs a lifeline. Only 6% of the total land area of National Parks is currently managed effectively for nature. Unique and precious habitats are under threat, and many species are at risk of disappearing entirely.
National Parks in England and Wales captivate the imagination and provide access to wild spaces for millions of people every year. But dig a little deeper and all is not as it seems. Nature is in crisis across the UK.
Shockingly woodland coverage in National Parks has flat-lined over the last decade. English National Parks have increased from a total of 14.9% in 2015 to 15.1% in 2020.
Disappointingly Dartmoor ranks as the 4th lowest National Park for woodland growth between 2015 and 2019 with 49ha of new woodland coverage. It also has the 4th lowest woodland coverage by area (12%) and the 6th highest potential for woodland coverage (31%).
While we recognise that Moor Trees has a vital role and responsibility to encourage and inspire more woodland restoration and expansion on Dartmoor we need to work with others to identify and unlock suitable sites to achieve our vision to help turn this around.
But with your help we can turn this around. We know that without protection as National Parks these wild places would be in a much worse state than they are today, but we need new powers, funding and support from our politicians if nature in National Parks is to thrive again. Which is why we are encouraging our supporters to email your Member of Parliament, local county, district or DNPA councillor either by using the Campaign for National Park’s toolkit or downloading this template letter.
It may not feel like a lot, but you have a powerful voice that deserves to be heard on issues that you care about. Together, we can make positive change for National Parks, people and the planet.
