16 February 2005
Recreational activities by Hunts on Dartmoor
Dartmoor National Park Authority (NPA) welcomes the recognition of the Hunting Act 2004 by all of the Hunts on Dartmoor. The Hunts have advised the NPA that they have undertaken to comply with the law. They will mirror their existing activities as far as the law will allow, which means that they may exercise their hounds, hold cross-country rides and ‘trail hunts’ (following a scented trail). They have also said that they will seek the permission of landowners, farmers and tenants wherever such activities are planned.
The Hunts are in discussion with the National Park Authority concerning the future management of ‘hunting activities’, particularly trail hunting, as legal organised recreational pursuits. The Hunts are keen to develop a protocol or code of practice which takes account of the NPA’s guidance to all event organisers. It is intended to have this in place in advance of the Hunts recommencing activities in the autumn of 2005.
The National Park Authority will work closely with the Hunts and other organisations to maintain the tradition and spectacle of activities associated with hunts, whilst ensuring that full respect is afforded to the conservation of Dartmoor, to the enjoyment of other recreational users and the interests of local residents.
Ends
For Further Information
Jeff Haynes, Director of Understanding and Enjoyment, Dartmoor National Park Authority
John Weir, Head of Communications, Dartmoor National Park Authority
Mike Nendick, Communications Officer, Dartmoor National Park Authority
Tel: (01626) 832093
Agendas for full Dartmoor National Park Authority meetings and Dartmoor National Park Authority planning meetings are available on the Authority's website .
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News Releases from all UK National Parks (external link, opens new window)
Notes for Editors
Devon and Cornwall Constabulary: Force Policy and Procedure Guideline D179 – Hunting with dogs:- http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/v3/publrep/foia/Operations/index.htm (external link, opens new window)
The five Hunts operating within the Dartmoor National Park are the Dartmoor, Lamerton, Mid Devon, South Devon and the Spooner’s and West Dartmoor.
Three of the five Hunts plan to meet, on Dartmoor, on Saturday 19 February 2005, but will only engage in activities which are completely within the law.
The Hunts perform services to the local farming community such as pest control and the disposal of 'fallen stock'. The Hunts will continue to undertake legal fox and pest control as far as the law allows.
The NPA seeks to influence the planning, location and organisation of all recreational events on Dartmoor in order to conserve the natural and cultural environment, and to prevent conflict with the interests of farmers, local communities and other people using the moor.
National Parks cover 10% of the land area of England, Wales and Scotland. They are of special value to the whole nation because of their great beauty, their wildlife and cultural interests and the opportunities they offer for quiet enjoyment. However, they are not nationally owned - the land is in the hands of many landowners or occupiers including farmers. Over 33,400 people live inside the Dartmoor National Park and many millions of visits are made to it each year.
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This page last updated 16 February 2005
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