THE Ten Tors competition should be moved to a different time of year to protect wildlife on Dartmoor, conservationists are arguing.
The new Dartmoor Biodiversity Action Plan, says the Ministry of Defence organised competition contravenes its Code of Guidance for Organised Events. The 2,400 entrants who train on the moor during much of the nesting season and the 4,500 people who are involved on the day could have a considerable impact on the environment, says the report.
The difficulty in moving the event to another time is caused by the timing of the school year and the long period of compulsory training involved.
The competition is normally held in mid- May, with training before that. This period is regarded as critical by conservationists, especially for vulnerable species.
'If they are disturbed and leave their nests, they won't go back,' said DNPA spokesman John Weir.
Ten Tors group leaders generally consult with the DNPA before setting out, but it can be hard to identify at-risk zones.
The potential damage to wildlife has been raised before with the Defence Ministry but the new Action Plan makes the issue into a formal objective. 'Our new research has shown the fragility of certain populations on the moor and made the issue more acute,' said Mr Weir.
The plan recognises the organisers have taken steps to minimise the impact of the event on wildlife. It acknowledges that Ten Tors is an established, popular event bringing great benefits and experience to thousands of youngsters.
David Harris of the MoD said the event is held when schools find it convenient, not interfering with exams.
'If conservationists wish it moved, they need to take it up with schools, not the army,' he said.