We have a dedicated team at Haldon Forest Park, consisting of three rangers overseen by the forest park manager. They are on-site seven days a week during park opening hours and are always happy to answer your questions and give advice.
Based at the Ranger’s Office in the Hub, all our rangers are trained first aiders.
You can contact a ranger:
- By telephone: 01392 834251
- By e-mail: haldon.rangers@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
- By post: Haldon Forest Park, Kennford, Exeter, Devon. EX6 7XR.
Please don't use our postcode in your Sat Nav! It will take you to the Forestry Commission Office instead of the Haldon Forest Park visitor's car park. See our directions instead.
For general enquiries please contact the District Office on 01392 832262.
In the event of an emergency please contact the emergency services on 999.
Louise Bell, Forest Park Manager
Haldon Forest Park had been a real success in the first 18 months, but to keep that momentum going we needed a permanent manager to oversee many aspects of the Forest Park.
Louise joined us to take on this task in October 2007. She oversees the ranger team and is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Park. Louise has also got stuck in helping us to plan and deliver our third phase of major development, with the creation of a cafe and improvement of our technical cycle trail.
Ian Parsons, Recreation & Project Ranger
Ian has been with the Forestry Commission for many years. In that time he has built up a popular following for his regular sell-out wildlife walks.
Ian is also licensed to handle dormice and has for many years been monitoring the dormouse population at the park, checking our 50 dormouse boxes on a regular basis. He is also responsible for monitoring and conserving many of the park's other rare and protected species, with the help of a dedicated volunteer group.
Tim Powles, Ranger
Tim joined the Forestry Commission in 2004, and in 2006 took up the challenge to become the Park's Outreach Ranger. Funded for three years by Sport England as part of the Haldon Forest Park Project, his main task was to engage with certain target groups; people who may need encouragement to visit the countryside, or perhaps just need access made easier.
In 2009 that funding has come to an end - but don't worry! Tim will still be here continuing his good work, but with a slightly different remit to the one he has had for the past three years.
Gemma Ingall, Community & Recreation Ranger
Gemma was recruited in August 2006, and has settled into her new role at the Forest Park focussing on expanding our recreation service. She has already hit on success with popular events like 'Candlelit Carols in the Forest' and 'Top Dog Day Out'.
Gemma is also involved with local cycling group Exeter Mountain Bike Club, and helps out with their Go-Ride Cycle Skills Training for children. She will be heavily involved with the development of our technical cycle trail during 2009, and with development of other cycle trails in future years.
Feedback
We would love to know what you think. Whether you have a suggestion, a complaint, or would like to thank the team for an enjoyable day out, send us your feedback by e-mail, or drop us a line by phone or post.
