We recently asked our members to complete a short survey about the Heather and Grass Burning Code.
Natural England has been commissioned by Defra to work with stakeholders to provide input to a "refreshed" code and we wanted to gather feedback to help improve our contribution. You can read a summary of the survey findings below:
The Code's Usefulness and Strengths
Respondents appreciate the Code as a central, comprehensive resource.
The Code is considered simple, easy to follow, and effective.
Some feel it provides a framework for best practices that benefits multiple stakeholders.
It is viewed as a tool to prevent further restrictive legislation if followed.
The code is seen as a contract for land managers to continue best practice muirburn.
Concerns about Restrictions and Over-Regulation
Many respondents feel the Code is too restrictive, particularly regarding burning on deep peat.
There's a call to relax regulations to allow for burning on larger areas, including deep peat.
Some feel the current guidance stems from desktop-based ideas rather than practical experience.
Some feel there is a lack of flexibility to account for the unique characteristics of different moors.
Concerns were raised that Natural England discourages applications to burn on deep peat.
Some feel that current restrictions are increasing wildfire risk.
There is a need for more flexibility at the micro level.
Wildfire Management and Prevention
A major theme is the importance of controlled burning in mitigating wildfire risks.
Respondents emphasize the need to manage fuel loads to prevent severe wildfires.
Some suggest that cutting/wetting vegetation is not as effective as burning in fire prevention.
There is support for creating firebreaks as a key element in wildfire management.
There is a call for improved recognition of cool burning as wildfire mitigation.
Some are concerned about the lack of consideration of wildfire risks to properties.
Need for Practical, Experienced-Based Guidance
There's a call to incorporate more knowledge from experienced practitioners.
Some respondents believe only people with proper moorland knowledge should be allowed to burn.
Some want regulations or changes to the code to be discussed with people with real moorland knowledge.
Specific Issues with Heather Burning
There is a debate about heather height and burning, with some suggesting shorter heather should be managed with controlled burns.
Some suggest that burning heather, even if it is less than 10 years old, can help capture CO2.
Some believe burning should be allowed on areas where cutting is dangerous or damaging to peat.
Some feel there is a need to allow burning of mature/degenerative heather.
Training and Expertise
Several respondents suggest the need for mandatory training for practitioners.
Some want recognition of existing training modules.
Ensuring practitioners have the required expertise is important.
Peat and Carbon Management
There are conflicting views regarding burning on peat, with some supporting it for carbon management.
Some believe that rotational burning on peat does not reduce carbon sequestration.
There's a suggestion that peat classification needs to be reviewed to allow for more burning.
Some feel that current restrictions can lead to larger wildfires and loss of carbon.
Some believe burning on deep peat can be beneficial both from a carbon and biodiversity perspective.
Code Improvements and Clarity
Respondents want clarity on licensing requirements.
Some suggest the code should be updated to reflect current regulations.
There is a request for more visuals showing vegetation types and fuel loads.
Some respondents suggest that the code should be available online.
There's a need for the code to explain the different licence requirements.
The term 'rotation' should be changed to 'restoration'.
Impact on Wildlife and Ecology
Some believe that controlled burning is essential to protect wildlife and people from summer wildfires.
Some think that the code and guidance demonstrate that controlled burning benefits wildlife, ecology and grazing.
Controlled burning is believed to benefit ecology, wildlife, game birds and livestock.
Some feel there should be more emphasis on how heather burning is essential to protect wildlife.
Rewilding:
Some respondents indicate that the current trend towards 'rewilding' increases the risks of uncontrolled wildfire.