DARTMOOR National Park will be 50 years old next year and already plans are underway to mark the anniversary.
Dartmoor was the fourth national park to be created in England and Wales — the designation order being signed on August 15, 1951.
In his report which will be put before members tomorrow (Friday), chief executive Nick Atkinson said next year's programme would be a 'modest' one rather than a 'celebratory' one to promote the objectives and achievements of national park status.
'Community and visitor involvement should be a central theme, taking the opportunity to try new ways of engaging participation and contribution to national park purposes,' said Dr Atkinson.
Among the community and awareness suggestions are:
l 50 Years 50 Images — a special exhibition at the High Moorland Visitor Centre in Princetown
l guided walks to be 'packaged' to recognise the anniversary
l a logo/strapline/postage franking identity to be used on all communications
l an educational series of events — a creative writing web site, schools theatre, community colleges day conference, a youth/arts sculpture project are possibilities.
l a new native woodland planting
l a beating of the national park bounds
l community seminar debates on key national park issues
Ministers, MPs, MEPS and the Europarc Council will receive invitations to visit the park.
Cross-related anniversary opportunities including the Dartmoor Pony Society's 50th, Conan Doyle Centenary, Lake District/Peak/Snowdonia 50ths, Europarc Day of Parks could also form part of the programme.
Dr Atkinson said: 'The overall programme must be carefully phased to avoid undue burdens on staff and to sustain interest and recognition which culminates on October 30.
'Energy, rather than financial resources will be at a premium, especially on officers within the communications section.'
The full draft programme should be in place by the end of September he said.