Controlled Burning

Peer-reviewed studies show that when burning and cutting stop on upland moors, fuel loads rise four- to six-fold within 15–20 years, driving far more intense wildfires.

New research shows UK wildfire risk is rising sharply as vegetation dries in sync, exposing Defra’s failure to act on science and rethink peatland policy.

The Moorland Association’s campaign to overturn Defra’s winter burning ban gains momentum, with a parliamentary motion, legal action, and growing political pressure.

The Wildlife Trusts wrongly claimed that 68% of upland wildfires are caused by managed burns. The real figure is closer to 5–10%. Here’s why accuracy matters.

Wildlife groups misrepresented Natural England’s evidence on moorland burning, overstating harm and ignoring uncertainty. Our analysis exposes how Defra was misled.

Scotland has paused new burning rules to prevent wildfire risk, England has not. The Moorland Association urges Defra to listen, learn, and act before disaster strikes.

Defra claims there’s a “scientific consensus” against managed burning, yet its own research says otherwise. We exposes how misinformation became policy.

Scotland works with land managers to prevent wildfires, Defra blocks them with red tape. A tale of two governments: one pragmatic, the other dangerously detached.

Applying to burn on a SSSI? Learn when you need Natural England’s consent, how to check existing permissions.

Natural England’s 2025 evidence review on managed burning ignored key findings from the James Hutton Institute, overlooking vital UK data on wildfire risk and fuel load.

Defra’s legislation to treble the land on which prescribed burns are effectively banned creates immense risks to rural lives and livelihoods. We are fighting it with huge energy and on all fronts.

The Moorland Association is taking legal action against Defra’s new burning regulations, warning they increase wildfire danger and put rural lives at risk.