We need robust "fit for purpose" Wildfire Mitigation...

Peak District Moorland Group

Hope Valley Farmers joined with Bradfield Farmers last week for a Moorland Assessment Workshop.

The new Sustainable Farming Incentive includes a Moorland Standard where farmers and landowners assess their moorland to qualify for a payment. Peat depth, vegetation height and structure, species diversity and the presence of bog mosses are all measured.

We had a lively debate about the merits (or otherwise) of the recommended system - our conclusion was there is lots which needs to be improved to make it a practical tool.

We also heard from the Wentworth Estate about their landmark Peak District National Park Wildfire Report. Wildfire is the greatest risk affecting the Peak District moorland and this report sets out a practical mitigation strategy which can help to both lessen the likelihood of wildfires occurring but also ensure that if they do happen, they can be brought under control more effectively.