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Research Fund

Dartmoor is wonderfully rich in resources – both human and natural. Six thousand years of hill farming, a remarkable building tradition (houses, churches, industrial structures etc) in stone and timber, the working of tin and other minerals, and the use of water, wood and fire have marked a unique landscape now celebrated for its wildness, its distinctive plants and animals, its  outstanding archaeology, its rich historical documentation, and the creative response of artists, craftspeople, musicians and writers.

The Dartmoor Society was formed in 1998 to be ‘an independent voice for those who find Dartmoor a source of livelihood or inspiration’ and, since 2005, has been a Registered Charity (No. 1111066), with broadly educational aims. We are not affiliated to any other body.

The reputation of the Society is that of a respected, independent, and clear thinking group, whose statements are based on reliable data.

We have successfully raised the profile of many key aspects of contemporary Dartmoor, such as renewable energy, the future of orchards, the role of the National Park Authority, and the military presence, to name but a few, but believe there is great potential to explore many others.

Research is essential for good decision-making. Without sound background information, many policies and actions can be flawed in concept and execution. As a wholly independent body, The Dartmoor Society has a special and valuable role to play in ensuring that high quality information contributes to the well-being of Dartmoor and its communities.

Through the Dartmoor Society Research Fund we believe we can foster specific research on key subjects, which has not been, or would not be, undertaken by others. We might commission an acknowledged authority on a specific topic, or invite applications for a chosen project. We are also excited about the possibility of working in partnership with other bodies.

Examples of Research Topics

A stimulating range of topics for new and focused research exists. Changing circumstances will bring new ones to attention. A few examples are given below: The need for environmentally and socially beneficial use of resources could lead to research into:

• changes in hill farming opportunities for hydropower and renewable energy
• local timber in construction projects
• potential markets for Dartmoor granite
• new uses for wool
• new uses for bracken
• the spread of gorse
• cider orchards – their loss and revival
• local food for local communities
• ecological research, e.g. on common species such as lizards, or on specific vegetation types, such as woodland or blanket bog.

Much could be done on housing, such as:

• analysis of housing policies and development ‘control’, e.g. the number of dwellings allowed to be built of certain sizes, styles etc.
• the extent and survival of inter-war bungalows
• the impact of the loss of small dwellings
• study of the legacy of industrial housing
• corrugated iron as an historic building material
• sustainable and eco-friendly housing

An understanding of history is also important, as the foundation of contemporary life. Projects could include:

• recording memories of quarrying, warrening, forestry, military training, china clay working, the woollen industry, shopping, farming etc.
• specific documentary research, or transcription of key historical documents
• studies of the development of Dartmoor towns/villages
• study of place names
• archaeological research – survey or excavation
• study of individual farms or buildings
• study of individual artists, craftspeople, musicians or writers

Social and other issues are also significant:

• tourism - visitor expectations, numbers, income generated and impact
• alternatives to the 40 mph speed limit
• shops, post offices and garages
• analysis of the quality of guided walks/talks/publications

Sharing the results – as a paper publication, electronically, or deposited in an accessible archive or library – will be paramount.

Making a Donation

Please consider making a donation to our research fund. To make a donation either:

• Send a cheque to the above address and include your name and contact details, or
• Make a donation via BACS transfer and send us an email letting us know so that we can acknowledge your donation. Our bank details are as follows:
  The Dartmoor Society, Lloyds Bank, Okehampton, sort code 30-96-23, account number 19029768.
• If you are a member you can donate via the 'send money online' section by logging in to the member area on our website

All donations will be acknowledged. Thank you very much for your support.

Advice for Applicants

Research is essential for good decision-making. As a wholly independent body, The Dartmoor Society has a special and valuable role to play in ensuring that high-quality information contributes to the well-being of Dartmoor and its communities.

To this aim, The Dartmoor Society seeks to support research and aims to provide small grants to those wishing to undertake projects and/or research providing certain criteria are met.

To be considered for a grant, please take note of the following:

Criteria

• Project/research must contribute to a better understanding of Dartmoor and clearly demonstrate its evidence base.
• Project/research is time limited and has a clear end point.
• Project/research has a clear aim.

How to apply

• Give a brief outline of project/research to be undertaken.
• State where will the project/research take place.
• Give the name and address of person(s) undertaking project/research.
• Explain the purpose of project/research.
• Provide the start date and end date of proposed project/research.
• Give the estimated cost of project/research and say whether other funding being applied for.

Each project/research application will be given serious consideration by the executive committee of the Dartmoor Society and their decision will be final.

The Dartmoor Society would like to receive an electronic copy of the completed project/research.

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