Caring for the New Forest this summer

With the New Forest readying itself for the start of the summer holidays and World Ranger Day (31st July) around the corner, we caught up with Maria Court, Senior Communication’s Officer for the New Forest NPA, about the importance of the New Forest Code during this time of year.

Maria began “the New Forest is a world capital for wildlife with many rare species and free-roaming animals owned by commoners. Thanks to its unique mosaic of habitats, it’s a stronghold for some species which have long disappeared from the rest of the UK.”

We, along with the rest of the New Forest are excited to welcome holidaymakers from far and wide to the forest this summer. Maria continued “being out in nature is key to our physical health and mental wellbeing with many people benefiting greatly from spending time in the beautiful landscape.”

We encourage all visitors to pay close attention to the New Forest code before and during their visit. There are just nine simple tips to follow, here are some below:

1. Stick to main tracks and cycle paths so the wildlife aren’t disturbed including ground nesting birds.
2. The New Forest is now BBQ-free to prevent wildfires within the National Park.
3. The iconic New Forest ponies need protecting too, as they shape the way the area looks. Please give the ponies a wide berth whether you’re in a car, on foot or two wheels. There’s also ample grazing in the New Forest so please do not feed our ponies.
4. Parking is available in one of the 130 designated New Forest car parks. This helps reduce the need for visitors to park on the gravel and grass verges, which are protected areas.
5. Remember to drive with care as animals are on the road’s day and night.
6. Taking all your litter and dog waste home to dispose of responsibly makes the protected landscape safer for people and wildlife too.

We hope you enjoy your visit to the New Forest!

For more guidance on visiting the New Forest safely this summer please visit here or if you wish to find out more from one of the experts, why not stop by The Drift on the 12th August. Erika Dovery, South New Forest Ranger, will be on hand throughout the day to answer any of your questions and help spread the word of the New Forest Code.