Forest Watch

Forest Watch is a partnership approach to tackle issues within rural communities throughout the New Forest District. Eight partner agencies form the core Steering Group; Hampshire Constabulary (Chair), National Park Authority, Natural England, National Farmers Union, Forestry Commission, Environment Agency, Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service and New Forest District Council.

Following consultation with rural communities four priority areas have been identified.  Each priority area has a dedicated Plan Owner co-ordinating all activities for that priority area.  The priorities are:

• Fly-tipping
• Poaching (including deer, fish, hare and game birds)
• Rural theft (specifically agricultural theft including diesel, lead, scrap metal, plant machinery and theft from motor vehicles in rural locations)
• Unlawful forest use (specifically arson and nuisance vehicles)

The Plan Owners are:

• Fly-tipping – Environment Agency
• Poaching – Hampshire Constabulary and National Farmers Union
• Rural theft – Hampshire Constabulary
• Unlawful Forest use – Forestry Commission

The Plan Owners are currently in the process of producing Action Plans for each priority area. These plans will direct all activity under each priority area ensuring that all partner agencies work towards the same objectives.

For more information about the Forest Watch scheme, contact Sgt Louise Hubble on 01590 646667, or e-mail forestwatch@newforestnpa.gov.uk.

To report any non-emergency issues in the New Forest dial 101.