Lend a hand at Hawns and Dendles native woodland

 Join Assistant Ranger Stuart for a day of practical conservation work at beautiful Hawns and Dendles wood, near Cornwood. This is the seventh in a series of volunteer days taking place on this special site.  

Due in part to deer grazing pressure, native tree regeneration has been challenging. In this session we will focus on removing old tree guards and redeploying where necessary to help protect young trees from being munched.  

Additionally, we will begin to dismantle of a large section of redundant deer fencing. We will have to monitor the fence line for nesting birds; in their presence this activity may be swapped for tree tube removal.  

Thanks to volunteer involvement; we are making real progress on this site, removing artificial barriers and opening it up for wildlife. We are helping to create a space for nature!  

The work will take place on Wednesday 8 May, from 10am to approximately 3pm.  

How to get involved

Register your interest by emailing Assistant Ranger Stuart Hooppell at shooppell@dartmoor.gov.uk who will provide more details.  

An approximate 2km uphill walk is required to get to the work location. The terrain is rugged so volunteers must be reasonably fit and sure-footed.  

Dressing warm and waterproof is essential as is sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots. All tools will be provided, but please bring a hot drink and lunch.

Some background

Hawns and Dendles is an oak/beech woodland found on the southern edge southern Dartmoor. Much of the site became a commercial plantation in the 1960s which was clear-felled in the mid-90’s before being purchased by Dartmoor National Park Authority in 1997. Since then the goal has been to encourage regeneration of the native trees.