Background In 2007 we took the opportunity to review our recent activities and relate these to the key issues that the Board felt we should be addressing. This is never a simple, or quick process, but the results of our labours was published in August 2007 and is available for all to see. The document is called "A Strategy for the Future" is available to download here, but we will be pleased to send a printed copy to those who are happier with the printed word . Scope of the Review The strategy identified five key areas for the Trust to address, and these are reproduced here. The Heather Trust seeks to
- Restore heather coverage towards former levels;
- Achieve better management of moorland, including burning where appropriate;
- Promote an improved understanding of moorland and its eco-systems, based on experience and scientific research
- Increase recognition of the vital role played by landowners, farmers and managers of moorland; and
- Generate greater understanding, amongst policy makers and the general public, of the benefits that come from the sustainable management of moorland.
The strategy examines why these five key areas are important, and then considers the steps that the Trust can take to address them.
At the outset, the aim was to keep it simple, and while we may not have been totally successful in this, we believe it is a useful source of reference for the Trust, and it will provide a framework to guide our day-to-day decision-making.
During such a process, many different views are expressed, and to produce the final version involves a considerable degree of compromise. I am grateful to Board members for their input to the process and their comments on various drafts.