Update on Dartmoor ponies

I am aware of concerns regarding Natural England’s new proposed grazing contracts and the impact they may have on Dartmoor ponies.

This is an emotional topic, which has generated plenty of consternation on all sides of the political spectrum.

I am pleased, then, that Natural England has unequivocally set out their position in the below blog post. As it states clearly, Natural England has not advocated for a cull of Dartmoor ponies and has no powers to implement one.

https://naturalengland.blog.gov.uk/2026/06/09/dartmoor-ponies-clarification-of-natural-englands-role-and-position/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUnKEFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMXhXdE1aUUpYb0xyOWV2NlVzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeVMvvFOm8XIlf28PrDuEv8y2Za_oVxhfjNswyY4rEQftB_L9Lp9q9vay0JN8_aem_1Y2PQ6lcXAXW8XbMh_Jzew

Nevertheless, the fact that in 2024, ponies were added into livestock grazing quotas on Dartmoor has added to speculation over their long-term future.

Dartmoor is in a poor ecological state. To combat it, Natural England has worked with farmers and commoners to set new grazing levels. Thanks to the 2024 change, these new grazing levels could impact Dartmoor’s ponies.

But let’s be clear: Dartmoor ponies are not causing the ecological problems on the moor. In fact, they are part of the solution by helping to graze back the invasive grass that’s choking out everything else.

I am working to fix this bureaucratic mistake and protect Dartmoor ponies – not only for their heritage, but the ecological value they bring to the moor.

I am hoping to meet with Natural England next week to discuss this issue further.