EXPERTS have been commissioned by Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) to find ways of safeguarding and expanding the moor’s iconic temperate rainforests as part of an ambitious woodland restoration plan.

It is hoped that under the scheme new Exmoor woodland will increase by three per cent in the next five years and by 10 per cent by 2050, much of it in an expansion of the temperate rainforest.

An ENPA spokesperson said: “As a partner of the South West Rainforest Alliance, the authority recognises the vital importance of temperate rainforests and is taking decisive action to conserve and expand these irreplaceable ecosystems.”

This follows a new alliance report which highlights the exceptional biodiversity and ecological value of Exmoor’s woodlands, including the Hawkcombe Wood national nature reserve, near Porlock.

The report ‘stands as a testament to the richness of temperate rainforest habitats, supporting a mosaic of rare species and contributing to the landscape’s natural beauty’.

To help safeguard these habitats for future generations, the ENPA has commissioned Land Use Consultants to identify opportunities for safeguarding and expanding temperate rainforest across Exmoor.

This initiative is said to be a key component of the ‘Exmoor Woodland Futures’ tree strategy currently being developed and which benefits from the support of Estée Lauder companies in the UK and Ireland.

By working with experts, landowners, and stakeholders, ENPA aims to pinpoint areas where woodland expansion will deliver the greatest ecological benefits.

ENPA senior woodland officer Graeme McVittie said: “Through our landscape recovery programme, ‘Restoring Exmoor’s Heartlands,’ we are aiming to expand temperate rainforest mosaic and increase areas of woodland pasture on our land.

“Wood-pasture is a key component of a rainforest mosaic which integrates trees and grazing land to create a network of connected habitats.

“This enhances biodiversity, provides shade and browsing for livestock and gives new opportunities for wildlife to thrive.

“Our commitment to woodland management is longstanding and we want to continue to build on existing projects to improve the condition and coverage of the temperate rainforests.”

Mr McVittie said the efforts included habitat restoration, invasive species control, and community engagement to foster stewardship of woodland resources.

Recently completed projects in the Upper Barle valley included a technique called ‘applied nucleation’ - establishing tree 'seed islands', wood-pasture using cactus tree guards, and planting of Kings Wood.

The management plan for Exmoor sets out ambitious targets for woodland expansion - much of the new woodland will comprise temperate rainforest, which, it is claimed, will further strengthen Exmoor’s role as a leader in conservation and climate action.

Mr McVittie said: “We would like to express our gratitude to all partners, consultants and supporters, especially the Estée Lauder companies, for their commitment to Exmoor’s woodland future.

“By working together, we can ensure that Exmoor’s rainforests continue to flourish, providing vital habitats, carbon storage, flood management and natural beauty for generations to come.”

More information on how to support woodland creation projects on Exmoor can be found by visiting the national park’s website.