Dorset heathland restoration project to protect rare wildlife and reduce wildfire risk

This autumn, a habitat restoration project will begin across five Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in East Dorset, aiming to safeguard some of the world’s rarest wildlife habitats while reducing the risk of wildfires to both nature and nearby communities.

The project, supported by funding from Natural England and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), will focus on restoring lowland heathland - an internationally rare ecosystem that supports endangered species such as the Nightjar, Woodlark, and all six of Britain’s native reptiles, including the elusive Smooth Snake.

Work will take place at the following sites: 

• Stephens Castle, Verwood
• Dewlands Common North, Verwood
• Slop Bog, Ferndown
• Parley Common, Ferndown
• Pine Clump, Upton.

These sites are legally protected and recognised for their ecological importance. Over time, invasive scrub and self-seeded coniferous trees have encroached on the heathland, threatening its biodiversity and increasing the risk of wildfires. The restoration will involve removing selected trees and invasive species such as Rhododendron to allow native heathland plants - especially heather - to thrive once again.

The project is designed not only to enhance biodiversity but also to reduce the likelihood and severity of wildfires. By removing volatile species like Pine, Gorse and Rhododendron, the fuel load on these sites will be significantly reduced. This will lower the chance of ignition and help prevent the spread of fires.

Encouraging the growth of native broadleaved trees, which are more fire-resistant, will also help create natural firebreaks and support long-term sustainable management of these landscapes.

Rangers have worked closely with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) to develop wildfire response plans and ensure fire crews are familiar with the terrain. Earlier this summer, Avon Heath Country Park hosted a wildfire training day for local heathland managers, organised by the Dorset Heaths Partnership and led by DWFRS.
 
Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council and Cabinet Member for Climate, Performance and Safeguarding, said:

“This project is vital for protecting Dorset’s unique natural heritage and reducing the risk of wildfires that threaten both wildlife and local communities.

“As custodians of a significant portion of the world’s remaining lowland heathland, we have a responsibility to restore and safeguard these habitats. Heathlands not only support rare species but also play a role in tackling climate change, with their soils acting as powerful carbon sinks.

“And with climate change making wildfires more frequent and intense, it’s more important than ever that we manage these landscapes carefully. By removing invasive species and encouraging native vegetation, we’re creating safer, more resilient environments for the future.”

Timber removed during the restoration will be repurposed for local projects, including construction materials, fence posts, and wood chips for carbon-neutral energy production - reducing the need to import wood and supporting Dorset’s sustainability goals.

The restoration also contributes to wider nature recovery efforts, which help attract over 1.6 million visitors annually to the county’s four country parks. Learn more about our nature recovery work in Dorset.