PEOPLE living in and around East Dartmoor are being invited to a series of free information events to find out more about plans to protect and enhance the area’s unique landscape and wildlife.

The events will provide an opportunity for local residents to learn about the proposed East Dartmoor Landscape Recovery Scheme, ask questions and hear how communities could become involved in the project.

Three in-person sessions are being held at Bovey Tracey Library and Ashburton Arts Centre, with an additional online event: Tuesday, September 15, 3pm at Bovey Tracey Library; Monday, September 21, 7.30pm at Ashburton Arts Centre; Tuesday, September 29, 6pm at Bovey Tracey Library and Wednesday, October 7, 6pm via the internet

The scheme is being developed by landowners, farmers, conservation organisations and local communities, with the aim of securing the long-term future of East Dartmoor and improving opportunities for wildlife.

The project is expected to begin in 2027/28, subject to funding confirmation from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Devon Wildlife Trust is leading the development phase, working alongside partners including Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Biodiversity Records Centre, Natural England, the National Trust, Oxygen House, RSPB, the University of Exeter and The Woodland Trust.

East Dartmoor is home to a diverse landscape of tors, moors, mires, heaths and species-rich grasslands. Its wooded valleys are particularly important, containing internationally significant temperate rainforests, also known as Atlantic oak woodlands.

The area has also become a refuge for a wide range of wildlife species facing threats elsewhere.

Residents can find out more about the scheme, its ambitions for nature and ways to get involved by attending one of the free events.

Tickets can be booked via Devon Wildlife Trust’s page on Eventbrite.