Controlled Burning

The current Defra consultation on heather burning is beginning to fall apart under the weight of its own failings – and it’s critical that we act now to make our voices heard.

These frequently asked questions are taken from the scientific paper: Post-burning responses by vegetation on blanket peat sites on a Scottish grouse moor.

The Guardian’s recent article highlights the growing global threat posed by uncontrolled wildfires and the devastating scale of smoke pollution now affecting human health.

Controlled burning of heather on UK moorlands is often used to support red grouse management, but its effects on peatland health are frequently questioned.

Time is running out to respond to Defra’s consultation on heather and grass burning. The deadline is 25th May, and it’s vital that those who understand the uplands - the people who live, work, and manage this land - make their voices heard.

Natural England’s recent evidence review on heather burning was presented as a definitive scientific update. Instead, it stands as a case study in how selective methodology, excluded expertise, and misrepresented findings can produce a flawed and unbalanced document.

Another spate of wildfires over the weekend, including one that has destroyed 12,500 acres of land on Dartmoor, highlights the growing concern over the risk of wildfires as dry conditions persist.

This study from Scotland looked closely at how prescribed burning - known as muirburn - relates to wildfires across the country.

This video taken by a gamekeeper shows the difference between wildfires and controlled burns on moorland.

The Moorland Association has prepared its draft response to Defra’s consultation on Heather and Grass Burning in England. While our first and strongest recommendation is that this consultation be paused, we’ve also made sure to respond in full should the Government press ahead.

Read our advice on how to complete Defra's Heather Burning consultation.

The BBC has recently reported that the risk of wildfire is increasing across England’s countryside, prompting urgent calls for action to protect landscapes, wildlife, and rural communities.

Natural England’s new document 'Definition of Favourable Conservation Status for Blanket Bog' should be withdrawn and rewritten.

A devastating wildfire burned 100 acres on Easter Sunday - controlled burning helped contain it. Those who are against burning may want to read this.

We recently asked our members to complete a short survey about Defra’s proposed changes to rules around heather burning. Here is a summary of the results.

We recently sent a letter to the Deputy Prime Minister, who is now responsible for handling the urgent threat of wildfire, highlighting how Government policies are exacerbating the problem.

Your feedback is invaluable in helping us understand the potential impacts of Defra's proposals and in formulating a comprehensive response.

A summary of the key issues outlined in the GWCT’s Peatland Report.

Explore the latest heather burning consultation updates. Learn about proposed restrictions on heather burning - have your say before 25 May

The PEATLAND-ES-UK project has been meticulously comparing different approaches to managing heather moorland.