What is a National Nature Reserve?
National Nature Reserves (NNRs) are places where wildlife comes first.
They were established to protect the most important areas of wildlife habitat and geological formations in Britain, and as places for scientific research. This does not mean they are no-go areas for people. It means that we must be careful not to damage the wildlife of these fragile places.
NNRs are of national importance and will be among the best examples of a particular habitat. In many, but not all, cases they are owned and managed by the statutory authority, for example Natural England. An NNR has to be managed appropriately to retain its special status.
In England, NNRs are designated by Natural England
National Nature Reserves in Dorset
Dorset Council manages two National Nature Reserves: