A NEW report has just been published describing the current state of Dartmoor National Park in terms of its conservation, recreation, community and economy.
The report has been prepared by a partnership of groups with an interest in the park and will be used to monitor progress in implementing the National Park Management Plan.
It highlights the national importance of Dartmoor's archaeology and historic buildings and the current good condition of the landscape, habitats and wildlife within the park.
It also identifies evidence of climate change on Dartmoor and the decline of upland farming, warning that more changes to public subsidy are likely to have further impact on the farming community and therefore the high quality environment needed to ensure a healthy tourism industry.
The report identifies that a higher than average proportion of the population work from home and are self-employed; their quality of life and sustainability are strongly affected by the availability of local services, voicing concern over the loss of village services and the closure of post offices in Dartmoor's smallest settlements.
Kevin Bishop, chief executive of Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: 'The State of the Park Report has been prepared to identify the pressures and issues affecting the qualities that make the National Park so special.
'Whilst the overall message is good, the report demonstrates the critical challenges facing the future of upland farming and our rural communities.
'It also demonstrates the pivotal role of partnership working to securing the future of the National Park.'
The report and the management plan 2007 to 2012 are available online at http://www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk">www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk