Below are several frequently asked questions based on the findings from "The People’s Plan for the Uplands" report.
What role do field sports, particularly game shooting, play in the uplands according to this report?
What are the primary reasons people value the UK uplands?
People value the uplands for a variety of reasons, with biodiversity being the most significant factor (62.8% of survey participants). Other important reasons include space for sports and exercise (15.3%), beautiful scenery (13.8%), access to nature (5.1%), and work (nearly 30%). These landscapes support rare bird species, provide opportunities for recreation, contribute to local economies, and offer a unique way of life. Many connect their appreciation for the uplands to traditional land management practices, such as field sports, which are seen as vital for both conservation and a sense of community.
What are the main concerns of people living and working in the uplands?
The most pressing concern for those in the uplands is the decline of traditional ways of living (41%). This is closely tied to fears that restrictions on traditional land management practices and field sports will negatively impact the local environment, jobs, businesses, and the sense of community. Other key concerns include the loss of natural habitats (22%), the threat to biodiversity (13%), and the increasing risk of wildfires (12%). Many feel that current policies, particularly those favoring rewilding, are exacerbating these issues and that their voices are not being heard by policymakers.
What role do field sports, particularly game shooting, play in the uplands according to this report?
Field sports, particularly game shooting, are viewed as integral to the ecological, economic, and social sustainability of the uplands. They are seen as a crucial part of the uplands’ heritage and a cultural touchpoint for many communities. Economically, game shooting generates jobs, investment, and supports businesses across various sectors. Ecologically, moors managed for game shooting have been shown to have healthier populations of ground-nesting birds, and the cool burning methods used reduce the risk of wildfires. Socially, field sports provide a shared interest and contribute to social wellbeing, with many stating it as part of a sense of identity.
How do traditional moorland management practices, such as cool burning, help the uplands?
Traditional moorland management practices, such as cool burning, are essential for the health and sustainability of the uplands. Cool burning involves the controlled burning of old heather to promote new growth, creating ideal habitats for ground-nesting birds. This practice also reduces the risk of wildfires by removing dry, older vegetation that acts as fuel. Additionally, traditional predator control helps protect rare species. These practices are seen as time-tested methods for preserving the biodiversity and beauty of the uplands, and are favored over newer approaches such as rewilding or rewetting by communities that live and work on them.
Why do many people in the uplands oppose "rewilding" projects?
A significant majority (75%) of respondents believe that rewilding is not good for the uplands. There is a strong belief among those in the uplands that rewilding is causing problems, rather than offering solutions. Concerns range from the inappropriate planting of trees in the wrong places, to "over-wetting" the moors, which they feel causes dangerous bogs and landslides. Many feel that rewilding is a modern fad that ignores centuries of knowledge and traditional land management that is more effective for preserving biodiversity, and they feel that government organizations and charities that promote this are ignorant of the realities of these areas.
What is the opinion of upland communities on the role of private estates and landowners?
Upland communities view private estates and landowners as vital to the management and preservation of heather moorland. They see landowners as crucial investors and custodians who often understand and support traditional land management practices. While private estates are acknowledged for bringing jobs and investment to the uplands, their main role is seen as one of stewardship of the moors through a combination of traditional management techniques and scientific research. There is a strong degree of trust in private landowners compared to government agencies or charities.
What is the main recommendation of the "People's Plan for the Uplands" to policymakers?
The primary recommendation of the "People's Plan for the Uplands" is for policymakers to listen more to the people who live and work in these landscapes and trust their judgement. They are asking policy makers to acknowledge the expertise and deep connection that these communities have with the moorlands and not to succumb to misinformed public pressure. The report urges policymakers to support traditional moorland management practices (such as cool burning) and to appreciate the crucial role private estates play in sustaining the uplands. It also suggests that they support field sports as a means of aligning economic, conservational, and social priorities.
How does the report suggest policymakers address the lack of trust in government from upland communities?
The report emphasizes that the overwhelming distrust of government (97% of those surveyed feel politicians do not do enough for rural areas) stems from a belief that politicians are not listening to the people who live and work in the uplands. To address this, the report suggests policymakers need to involve local people in decision making, trust their expertise, and acknowledge their deep connections to the land. It suggests politicians should listen to the scientific evidence that favors traditional management practices, avoid knee-jerk reactions driven by popular opinion, and work to educate the broader public on the importance of these unique landscapes, and the traditional ways they are managed.