Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) has seen an increase in fly-tipping on its nature reserves in east Dorset, which has led to concerns for the safety of the heaths during the hot weather.
There has been three reports of this on DWT’s nature reserve, Upton Heath, in the last week, and two incidents on the Lower Common nature reserve near Verwood, which stopped fire
crews from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Rescue service gaining access to the heath following the report of a fire.
DWT Land Manager, Rob Brunt said, “No matter what the time of the year is, fly tipping is completely unacceptable. However, during this hot and dry period of weather we are having, emergency services may need to get quick access to heathland in the event of a fire.
If fly-tipping incidents prevent emergency vehicles from getting access, this increases the risk of serious and far-reaching damage to the habitat that wildlife live in.
Nature reserves in east Dorset are also close to the surrounding conurbations which adds extra concern at this time. We need the people causing the problems to think twice about the potentially dire consequences of their actions.”
Dorset Wildlife Trust is asking the public to remain vigilant at this time and report any suspicious activity or behaviour to the police on 101. If life is in danger or a crime is in progress call 999. You can also contact the Dorset Waste Partnership to report incidents of fly-tipping in Dorset here.
For more information about Dorset Wildlife Trust nature reserves, visit www.dorsetwildifetrust.org.uk/reserves.