Dartmoor National Park Authority

About Us

Dartmoor National Park Authority

The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) exists to secure for the public good the conservation, enhancement, enjoyment and understanding of the special qualities of Dartmoor: its landscape, wildlife and cultural heritage.  Our role is clearly defined by Parliament in our two statutory purposes, which are to:

• conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park
• promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area by the public.

In carrying out this work, we are also required to:

• seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the National Park.

Some of what we do

• we operate three National Park Information Centres;
• we run a variety of events such as guided walks and educational activities;
• we operate a Ranger service to provide practical support;
• we support and work with communities within the National Park;
• we manage a number of properties including woodland and commons and operate a number of car parks and toilet facilities;
• we develop and maintain access opportunities to the countryside encouraging responsible use;

Our priorities for 2009/10:

• managing climate change;
• maintain a viable farming community that delivers a range of public benefits;
• promote development that is good for Dartmoor;
• maximise access and understanding for all sectors of society;
• improve the organisation’s planning and performance management;
• delivering sustainability;
• maximise resources;
• promote the work of the Authority and enhance understanding of what we do;
• all land, buildings and services provided by the Authority will be clean, safe and fit for purpose.

Page updated 7 December 2009