A SUCCESSFUL awareness programme aimed at protecting Dartmoor has just been awarded further Euro-funding, enabling it to be extended for another year.
Dartmoor National Park Authority's Moor Care programme was set up in 1996 to combat erosion on the moors through a schedule of repair and restoration works — it also raised public awareness of the impact of increased recreational use.
Almost £200,000 has been spent during the last three years and work has been carried out on nearly 100 sites, including archaeological consolidation, stepping stone realignment, replacement of bridges and styles and footpath and access improvements.
Local contractors were used to carry out the work, which also benefited the economy in the area.
Twenty four people have been trained in dry stone walling, and five hedge laying courses gave 37 trainees practical instruction and certificates in basic skills.
Now the programme will carry on throughout 2000 with an additional £68,500 from Europe, match funded by the Park Authority — further work will be undertaken at other sites on the moor and maintenance and monitoring of repairs will take place at original Moor Care sites.
The campaign will also continue to raise awareness of the sensitive balance of the moors and there will be a new focus on sustainable and careful travel in the area.