Cornish Moors Now a Protected National Nature Reserve

National Nature Reserve status has officially been granted to the Mid Cornwall Moors as of today (Wednesday, 27 May). This designation marks it as the 14th site in the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and brings together over 1,100 hectares of pristine moorland. This development more than doubles the area of land devoted to nature conservation in this historic landscape. The Mid Cornwall Moors is a vibrant mosaic of semi-natural habitats. These include heath, moorland, mire, and woodland, and they help form a network across Cornwall’s unique 'clay country.' Situated within the central region of Cornwall, this area is bordered by St Austell to the south, Bodmin to the east, and St Columb Major to the north, supporting a community in one of Cornwall’s most economically challenged regions. The newly established nature reserve aims to enhance accessibility to nature, foster opportunities for education and recreation, and bolster the local economy through sustainable agricultural practices. Home to a variety of rare habitats and species, the reserve features wet ‘willow carr’ woodland, which shelters the rare willow tit. Additionally, its raised bogs are adorned with sphagnum moss, lesser butterfly orchids, royal ferns, and the fascinating carnivorous round-leaved sundew. Also flourishing in this unique landscape is the Cornish moneywort, which is endemic to Cornwall’s historical tin streaming areas. This declaration pays tribute to the locations that have influenced Cornwall’s history, characterized by prehistoric tin mining, Iron Age hillforts, and ancient woodlands. Notable sites such as Helman Tor, the Iron Age hillfort at Castle an Dinas, and Goss Moor, famed as King Arthur’s favorite hunting ground, are integral to this nationally significant landscape. The Mid Cornwall Moors combine nature and heritage management through collaboration between Natural England, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall Heritage Trust, the Gaia Trust, and Imerys. It also encompasses areas listed as the Mid Cornwall Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognized for its exceptional ecological importance. To reverse the decline of biodiversity and pursue ecological recovery, it is essential to create larger, better-connected areas where nature can flourish. With the backing of His Majesty King Charles III, Natural England is committed to establishing a lasting public legacy. This initiative aims to create or expand 25 National Nature Reserves by 2028, and the Mid Cornwall Moors stands as the 14th NNR in this series. Approximately 1.4 million residents live within a 5km radius of a King’s Series NNR. For further insights on the importance of nature reserves, visit Natural England at [Natural England](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/natural-england) and learn more about conservation efforts at [Cornwall Wildlife Trust](https://www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/). For additional information about the Mid Cornwall Moors, check out [www.globemigrant.com/nature-reserves](http://www.globemigrant.com/nature-reserves) and [www.globemigrant.com/cornwall](http://www.globemigrant.com/cornwall). Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ancient-cornish-moors-gain-national-nature-reserve-status

No Result