East Dartmoor National Nature Reserve

15/06/2026

News from the side lines. 🌊

Happy to see the translocated willow 🌳 and alder 🌲 trees thriving along the floodplain. These native species not only enhance biodiversity but also stabilise the soil 🏞️ and create vital habitats for wildlife 🐦.

We’re working towards restoring a natural balance and healthier ecosystem for the future! 🌱✨

By Chris Harbut.

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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11/06/2026

05/06/2026

🌟 As we wrap up National Volunteering Week, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers across the country in various organizations. A special shoutout to our incredible volunteers at East Dartmoor for their amazing contributions to Dartmoor’s national nature reserves! 🌿💚

Their dedication has fostered a fantastic and caring community, and together, their efforts make a tremendous impact on our work. 🙌✨

We are truly grateful for their commitment—they are the driving force behind so much of what we achieve here at Natural England, from survey work and habitat management to infrastructure maintenance, animal welfare, education, and engagement. 💪🌍

Thank you, volunteers! ❤️

By Chris Harbut.

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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05/06/2026

🌄 What a fantastic day up in the hills!

Part of the Kings series, Cheltenham Escarpment, one of the latest national nature reserve (NNR) declarations. 🌿✨

It was wonderful to see such a great turnout, with Natural England, partners, community groups, and dedicated volunteers all coming together. 🤝💚 The hard work, dedication, and passion for this area of natural beauty was evident throughout the day, and we were fortunate with the weather too! ☀️

We heard from fantastic speakers discussing the management of sensitive habitats, and we learned so much about the geography, geology, and industrial and natural aspects of the site. 🎤🌱

Networking is crucial! It’s vital to make connections and learn how other sites manage their challenges, often in creative ways. 🌍✨ It’s inspiring to see how they have built their volunteer community and educate/engage with the local community.

By Chris Harbut.

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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01/06/2026

🍂✨ What an amazing woodland event! 🎉 This weekend was filled with excitement as we explored the wonders of our woodland rainforests, discovering science, nature, birds, bugs, and the beautiful art of nature along with its intriguing sounds. 🌳🎤🪘🎶

With around 200 participants, the turnout was just right, thanks to the efforts of the Dartmoor National Park Authority. The joy on the kids’ faces truly said it all! 😄 We had a fantastic time seeing the natural world from different perspectives.

A huge thank you to all the behind-the-scenes volunteers and managers for their invaluable contributions in making this event a success. 🙌

By Chris Harbut

🎈 Don’t miss our next event: details to be released at a later date.

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at http://www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: East Dartmoor Woods

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11/05/2026

🌟 Thanks Volunteers! 🌟

A bit of satisfying graft. 🙌

We have been maintaining our section of the Granite Tramway, built by George Templar,🏗️ This historic site is a shining example of the protected Templar Way, stretching from Haytor down to the docks in Teignmouth. 🏞️

The arching beech trees and tall standing Douglas fir create a beautiful walk through the top of our valley.

By Chris Harbut

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at
Volunteering with Natural England: how to get involved - GOV.UK

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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09/05/2026

🌿 Respecting Wildlife in Our Nature Reserves 🌿

Let’s give nature the space it needs! When visiting your local National Nature Reserve (NNR), please remember to respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance. 🦉🐾

Why It Matters:

• You’re Not Alone: Thousands of visitors come to enjoy these beautiful spaces, and every action counts.

• Wildlife Needs Space: Disturbance can stress animals, affecting their natural behaviors and habitats.

How You Can Help:

• Follow the Country Code: Adhering to these guidelines supports nature recovery and helps protect our wildlife.

• Observe from a distance: Use binoculars or a zoom lens to enjoy wildlife without intruding on their space.

Thank you for your understanding and commitment to preserving our precious wildlife! Together, we can make a difference. 🌍💚

By Chris Harbut

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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08/05/2026

What a fantastic way to start the day! 🌅 Listening to the dawn chorus at Yarner Wood while carrying out survey work, the sound is incredible. The melodies of the pied flycatchers, blackcap, tawny owl, and others creates a beautiful symphony of nature. 🎶🐦

It’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of conserving our natural spaces. By giving nature room to thrive, we allow these wonderful sounds and sights to flourish. 🌳✨

GIVE NATURE SPACE. 🌍💚

How often do you get to experience that kind of serene environment?

By Chris Harbut

Interested in volunteering? Get in touch at www.gov.uk/volunteers.

Check out our blog: [East Dartmoor Woods](https://eastdartmoorwoods.org)

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08/05/2026

08/05/2026

A great start to the day, the chorus at Yarnerwood National Nature Reserve. East Dartmoor National Nature Reserve