The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust is a dedicated conservation charity working to protect and preserve the critically endangered indigenous Dartmoor Heritage Pony. These hardy, traditional ponies have shaped the moorland’s biodiversity for millennia, yet their numbers have dwindled and their long-term survival remains at risk.
At the heart of the Trust’s mission is support for pony breeders and keepers who manage semi-wild herds that thrive year-round on the moor. Through practical assistance, advocacy, and partnerships with conservation bodies, the Trust helps secure viable herds that contribute to landscape health and ecological balance.
Based in Devon and established in 2005, the charity champions not only the ponies’ survival but also their role in enriching wildlife habitats, educating current and future generations about moorland ecology, and inspiring wider engagement with this iconic part of Dartmoor’s heritage.
Dartmoor pony with helicopter by Stephen Craven, via Wikimedia Commons
How you can help:
- Donate or leave a legacy – your contributions help provide practical support for breeders and keepers, fund educational work, and sustain research into conservation grazing.
- Become a member or volunteer – join others who care about Dartmoor’s heritage, enjoy guided walks, and make a tangible difference at sites like Bellever.
- Consider buying a heritage pony – supporting responsible ownership helps fund sustainable breeding and keeps these ponies part of living Dartmoor.
- Sign up for news – stay informed and engaged with the Trust’s work.
All information from: https://dpht.co.uk/