Phil Stocker appointed chair of Dartmoor Land Use Group

Defra has appointed National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker as the independent chair of the newly created Dartmoor Land Use Management Group.

The group has been formed following last year’s inquiry into land management on Dartmoor and will work closely with stakeholders to deliver the 25 recommendations made as part of the review.

It will also be tasked with developing and implementing a land use framework and plan for Dartmoor.

See also: Defra presses on with Dartmoor Review recommendations

Mr Stocker, who will report directly to Defra secretary Steve Reed, will be responsible for appointing a balanced range of members to the group.

Alongside his work with the National Sheep Association, Mr Stocker has previously held positions at the Soil Association and the RSPB.

Phil Stocker © Tim Scrivener

“Farmers have been, and must continue to be, central to Dartmoor’s future,” he said.

“We can build on the work of generations of farmers that have helped to maintain this special landscape, but this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t expect change. Change can be positive providing people are prepared to engage and work to a shared vision,” said Mr Stocker.

“Decisions will need to be made that will affect the future of this vast area of common land, but these will be based on real, honest evidence, reviewed by the group to produce a clear vision and action plan of what is needed to be achieved.”

Semi-natural 

Defra farming minister Daniel Zeichner added: “Dartmoor is a breathtaking landscape with unique challenges. The area has one of the largest semi-natural moorland habitats in the country and over recent years the relationship between farming, nature and other impacts, such as climate change has lacked balance.

“With more than 40 years’ experience working in farming and the environment, I am delighted that Phil Stocker has been appointed. He is uniquely placed to consider the needs of our land: restoring nature, boosting food production and preserve its beauty for generations to come.”

The appointment was also welcomed by Andrea Ayres, regional deputy director at Natural England.

Ms Ayres said: “We are working hard to find solutions with farmers and land managers on Dartmoor, and I am confident that Phil Stocker’s leadership will strike the right balance between protecting environmental objectives and preserving grazing on the commons.”

‘Inspired’

Tenant Farmers Association vice chair and Dartmoor farmer Helen Radmore described the choice of Mr Stocker as “inspired”.

“He brings with him a wealth of experience and is trusted by farmers and environmentalists alike,” she said.

“The TFA looks forward to working with him in his new role including to ensure that the needs and aspirations of tenants on Dartmoor are front and centre in the work of the new group.”