The New Forest National Park and Forestry England have  to launched their campaign to protect ground nesting birds for the 2025 season.   

Dogs are one of the causes of predation of these birds, many of which are endangered. Local landowners, primarily Forestry England but also Hampshire County Council and the National Trust and others, put out signs. A red sign means please do not go in this sensitive area - a yellow sign means dogs should be under close control, sticking to established paths, (including  on a lead if necessary). NFDOG's principle is simple. 

Regardless of the signage, there are lots of lovely places to walk (mainly in wooded areas) so if you can completely avoid the sensitive areas that's really helpful and responsible. Of course not everyone can, so then please stick to the signs. 

A number of car parks will be closed for the season. They are currently planned for:

Clayhill (Burley)

Crockford

Crockford Clump

Hincheslea

Hincheslea Moor

Ocknell Pond

Ogdens

Shatterford

Yew Tree Heath

+ Half of Beaulieu Heath for the first few months

If you can help, and be responsible, please do so. The season last year lasted to the beginning of August, but it is dependent on a number of factors such as the weather.