Rangers
If you visit the National Park there is a good chance you will see our rangers out and about or attending local events. They can help you find out what makes the National Park special, great ways to enjoy the area and tips on how you can help to protect it.
There are six full-time rangers:
- Erika Dovey is the southern ranger, working mainly in the east of the National Park
- Claire Sherwood works mainly in the south west and central parts of the National Park
- Hayden Bridgeman works mainly in the north of the Forest.
- Jim Day is the people and wildlife ranger.
- Dawn Smith is an assistant ranger supporting all areas.
- The ranger team is led by Lead Ranger Gillie Molland.
Each year, additional seasonal rangers are employed for six months from March to September to help people learn about the importance of the New Forest, its protected species and promote key ‘caring for the Forest’ messages to reduce their impact. Their first three months are focused on raising awareness of ‘ground nesting birds’ and reducing disturbance by Forest users during the very sensitive months of their breeding season.
Two apprentice rangers are also employed each year as part of the Generation Green project which was launched to inspire and connect young people to nature.
If you are interested in the rangers attending your event or assisting with your community project then email rangers@newforestnpa.gov.uk.
