51AVÊÓÆµ

Farmers ignored on wildfire risk as Defra extends heather burning ban

Is Defra right to extend a ban on heather burning?

Chris Brayford
clock • 7 min read
Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore said: "Farmers, land managers, gamekeepers, our firefighters, and others all know that proactive, controlled burning is key to reducing the size and risk of natural wildfires. It illustrates a deep disregard and total naivety associated with improving the health of our precious peatlands and moorland habitats."
Image:

Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore said: "Farmers, land managers, gamekeepers, our firefighters, and others all know that proactive, controlled burning is key to reducing the size and risk of natural wildfires. It illustrates a deep disregard and total naivety associated with improving the health of our precious peatlands and moorland habitats."

Defra has extended a ban on heather burning to the dismay of farmers and rural organisations who said the decision is 'misguided' and 'ignores' concerns over wildfire risks. Announcing the decision...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

Opinion: Liz Staley - Ensuring farming support reaches farmers and delivers value for taxpayers

Opinion: Liz Staley - Ensuring farming support reaches farmers and delivers value for taxpayers

Cumbrian farmer Liz Staley reflects on the Sustainable Farming Incentive

Liz Staley
clock 25 July 2026 • 4 min read
Opinion: The new Defra Secretary has her work cut out with global headwinds

Opinion: The new Defra Secretary has her work cut out with global headwinds

Deputy editor Alex Black takes a look at the current challenges as tensions ramp up

Alex Black
clock 24 July 2026 • 2 min read
From the editor: Defra's revolving door has thrown Angela Eagle back in

From the editor: Defra's revolving door has thrown Angela Eagle back in

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
clock 23 July 2026 • 2 min read