Keep Exmoor Clean Don’t ‘Decorate’ Trees with Dog Poo

ENPA is asking people to treat trees with the same care they afford their Christmas Tree, and NOT ‘decorate’ them with dog waste. The initiative encourages dog owners to protect nature and the landscape by taking waste home and dispose of it responsibly, and to never leave bags on trees, fences, or pathways.

Ranger Rich Eales said: “Exmoor is a very welcoming place for dogs and responsible dog owners, but no one, including most dog lovers, likes seeing dog poo bags hanging from trees while out on walks. Dog waste left behind not only looks horrible but it’s also harmful to people, wildlife and the ecosystem. We know that some dog walkers hang bags on a branch with the full intention of picking it up on their return journey but can later forget or change their route - the best policy is not to leave it there at all. Put it in the bin, such as the dog poo bins we provide near ENPA car parks or take it home with you and dispose of it responsibly. Dog poo bags, even if marked ‘biodegradable’, can take many years to break down when not disposed of correctly and, as they decompose, they can disintegrate into harmful microplastics that pollute the soil. The waste inside can also contaminate soil and water sources and spread disease.

ENPA are asking people to support the campaign, not only by leaving no trace and keeping Exmoor clean, but also by sharing the message on social media using the hashtag #NotOnOurTrees

Exmoor National Park Centres and the Exmoor National Park online shop www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/shop sell leak proof, lightweight, airtight, neoprene bags, which can store dog waste bags until a suitable bin is available. Profits from product sales support the important conservation and access work of the Authority.

Rich continued “This is a beautiful landscape to explore, with around 1000km of walks and bridleways for all to enjoy. We’re asking everyone to give Exmoor the best gift, not just for Christmas but all year round - Keep it special, keep it clean!”

For ideas and inspiration for winter walks on Exmoor visit www.exmoorwalks.org with over 30 of Exmoor’s top walks to choose from including short strolls, explorer walks and longer Classics.

Our National Park Purposes include promoting opportunities to ‘understand and enjoy Exmoor’s special qualities’. A recent public opinion survey found that one of the greatest concerns centred around: ‘Impacts of irresponsible dog walking on the environment, livestock and other users’.

Find out how you and your dog can enjoy Exmoor safely and responsibly at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/exmoor-for-everyone