The establishment of the Exmoor Biodiversity Action Plan is, in itself, a great benefit in promoting public understanding, but the key is also to incorporate actions within the individual plans that specifically aim to raise awareness. Habitats and species which already generate considerable public interest, such as upland heathland and dormouse, may be particularly suitable for such projects. However, it is also important that we champion the more obscure elements of Exmoor’s wildlife.
Following periodic review of the Action Plans, a progress report is produced that summarises achievements in meeting BAP targets through the Biodiversity Action Reporting System (BARS). In addition to this document, other publicity materials are being produced that provide a general overview of the biodiversity planning process and focus in on specific habitats, species or issues. Existing ENPA publications such as Exmoor Life and The Exmoor Visitor are also being used to update local people and visitors on biodiversity issues.
An annual biodiversity newsletter is produced which reports on progress of the Exmoor BAP and is widely distributed to partner organisations, landowners and the general public. To view the newsletters, follow this link.
Biodiversity issues are particularly encouraged through the work of the education team through local schools, groups and individuals. A series of information leaflets have been developed aimed at local schools including one on wildlife: http://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/filex_09.pdf
A number of the Plans identify academic institutions as a key partner in delivering actions. It is hoped that this document will help to stimulate a much closer working relationship between the academic and conservation sectors. Such a relationship would help to realise Exmoor’s considerable potential as a teaching resource and would also generate high quality ecological and environmental data.
Community involvement is also much encouraged to help take forward biodiversity actions, and volunteers have been involved in many projects such as the Knotweed Control Project, Exmoor Parish Hedgerow Survey and practical management for species such as fritillary butterflies.