Keepers recognised as moorland custodians 

Gamekeepers Praised in New Report for Critical Role in Wildfire Control and Upland Conservation

A groundbreaking academic report has spotlighted the indispensable role of gamekeepers in managing England’s uplands, particularly in wildfire prevention, habitat conservation, and rural economic contribution.

Titled The Grouse Moor Gamekeeper in England in the 21st Century, the report was authored by Professor Simon Denny and commissioned by the Regional Moorland Groups and the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO). It is the first comprehensive academic study of its kind, drawing on data from 58 moors in northern England.

The report reveals that gamekeepers are frontline responders during wildfire outbreaks, thanks to their expertise in controlled burning and in-depth knowledge of local terrain. These skills allow them to establish effective firebreaks, significantly reducing the spread of fires and helping to protect both wildlife and carbon-storing peatlands.

“Gamekeepers do not have a single, simple role,” Professor Denny said. “They must be skilled educators, wildlife wardens, conservation managers, and often firefighters and first responders.”

The report also quantifies the economic impact of grouse moor management:

• £48.7 million in annual economic activity

• £21.8 million spent on contractors for habitat and access improvements

• £121 million generated through rural tourism

David Smith MP, who co-hosted the launch at Westminster on 19 May, praised gamekeepers as essential stewards of moorland landscapes, which are home to iconic red-listed species including 53% of the UK’s curlew population and 42% of lapwing.

Richard Bailey, head of the NGO’s moorland branch, welcomed the findings, noting that controlled burning not only mitigates wildfire risk but also supports biodiversity and landscape resilience.

“As climate change accelerates wildfire risks, gamekeepers’ knowledge and actions are essential,” Bailey said. “Their work helps prevent devastation to habitats, wildlife, and the carbon-rich peat.”

With the UK legally committed to nature recovery targets by 2030, the report calls for greater recognition and support for gamekeepers, who play a unique and multifaceted role in protecting the uplands and supporting rural communities.