This page is dedicated to our fight against our landlord’s (Dartington Hall Trust) decision to evict us from our 31-year-old forest garden in Dartington, Devon, UK. Here you’ll find latest updates and press releases, and also your tributes to the forest garden and what it means to you, and why it should be preserved.
Go to Messages of Support
Some of our supporters have set up a petition at change.org – see www.change.org/p/stop-the-destruction-of-the-world-renowned-dartington-forest-garden Thanks to the Sussex Forest Food Garden Society who are instrumental in running the Forest Food Garden at the University of Sussex.
Press release - 14th March 2025
Dartington Hall Trust (DHT) have given a years notice to end the lease for a groundbreaking 2 acre food forest project which has been under way on the Dartington Estate for 31 years, despite it costing them nothing; whereas it has brought in over 50,000 visitors to the estate, hosted important scientific research on carbon storage, and become what is often described as the best example of a food forest (or forest garden) in the temperate world.
Groundbreaking work by agroforestry pioneer
Martin Crawford, founder and director of the Agroforestry Research Trust, which has leased the land for 31 years, says:
“We’ve put in decades of work to achieve this exemplar of a food forest system. This seems like a complete betrayal of trust by the DHT, who are only looking at money – they have given us no reasons but think they can get more money by flattening and building there or using it for something else instead of the rent we pay.”
A food forest or forest garden is a complex agroforestry system using trees, shrubs and perennial plants to mimic an ecosystem but with lots of crop plants. Think fruit and nut trees underplanted by fruiting shrubs and vegetables. They are very sustainable systems to grow food and store carbon at the same time. The food forest at Dartington has inspired the creation of thousands of such systems throughout the world, and more recently has inspired the Royal Horticultural Society to diversify their plantings at Wisley, and the National Trust to start its first forest garden at Shugborough.
Martin continues:
“Our charity and the DHT have had a long association with the understanding that ours is a long term land-based project which after 31 years still has a long way to go. For example, long term measurements of carbon storage in such systems are vitally important in climate change research.
DHT have had many other benefits too. We’ve brought some 50,000 people to the Estate, many of whom have gone on to use the accommodation or catering facilities. Over the years the DHT have used our name to get kudos for doing ecologically sound projects on the Estate.
“Ecological vandalism”
“Throwing us off is not the same as giving a tenant in a building notice – they can easily move. This food forest is irreplaceable. It is literally priceless. What the DHT are doing is ecological vandalism.
I had thought there was still a thread of ethical behaviour at DHT but was clearly mistaken. DHT are not breaking any laws giving us notice but it is still unethical, amoral behaviour breaking 31 years of trust between our organisations. Their communications have at times been casual, disrespectful and with a feudal tone too, rubbing salt into the wounds – clearly they don’t care what their actions result in. Their calculations may well turn out wrong if an economic boycott takes place.
It’s even more galling, because we obviously need a secure long term tenancy, and we spent 4 years negotiating this with DHT and had a verbal agreement to go ahead with the last CEO Alan Bolden. Then with regime change the DHT reneged on that agreement and refused to give us a long term deal.
A lot of people have visited this food forest and know how valuable it is. Please protest this decision by writing to the DHT (see below) and tell them what this space means to you and what it’s loss to the wider world means; and why they should give us long-term security.
To the Dartington Trust I say: please reconsider your actions. As well as retracting this decision, we need a long term secure lease or to buy our site. This protest will continue until we get that. This kind of behaviour will lose you a lot local support. Do you really think you can survive without it?”
Dartington Trust Contacts to write to:
Robert Fedder (CEO): robert.fedder@dartington.org
The Dartington Trustees: trust@dartington.org (these are listed on the Charity Commission website)
Nick Harris (COO): nick.harris@dartington.org
We’ve created a Save the Dartington Forest Garden page about this where updates will be posted and your messages of support too if you want. Send messages of support to be posted to SavetheFG@agroforestry.co.uk
Economic boycott of Dartington Hall Trust
Some local ART supporters are doubtful that DHT will pay any attention to these kinds of protests, and argue that since DHT only understands the value of money, economic actions need to take place to persuade them to change their minds – in effect an economic boycott. They want people to ask themselves: Do you really want to give your money to such an unethical organisation? If not then target DHT and not the many wonderful business tenants on the Estate:
- Don’t go and stay there.
- Don’t buy their food at the White Hart. (But the Green Table and Montreal Bagels are run by tenants)
- Don’t use or rent their facilities.
- Don’t use the DHT Cider Press shops
- Watch films at Totnes cinema rather than the Barn at Dartington Hall
- If you’re a funder, think twice about funding DHT
- If you’re a tenant on the Estate – maybe look elsewhere when your lease is up. Otherwise watch your back.
- If you’re a prospective tenant – look elsewhere!
Messages of support
To add your message here please email it to SavetheFG@agroforestry.co.uk (we reserve the right to edit for defamatory or abusive language)
“This betrayal of trust by such a renowned establishment as the Dartington Hall Trust is devastating. The two highly successful Symposiums run by the Agroforestry Research Trust over the last 4 years demonstrated both the international interest and concern over food production and nutrition by young entrepreneurs and seasoned food forest growers. But the jewel in the crown, recognised by all concerned, is the Dartington site of 31 years and what can be learned from such an established habitat as it responds to changes in the climate. Such a resource and the practical wisdom that it generates and which is passed on to course attendees is very special and I urge trustees to see beyond the trees and let this living experiment continue in its present form.” Dr John Parry MBE, Hon.Sen.Lecturer in Education, University of Sussex
“To destroy the Dartington Forest Garden would be a tragedy. Educational and inspiring, it is a rare example of a truly sustainable, holistic approach to growing food and fibre.” Professor Dave Goulson, University of Sussex
“To eradicate the Agroforestry Research Trust’s extraordinary forest garden, which has single-handedly inspired thousands of such gardens around the world, would be an act of cultural vandalism on a par with bulldozing the Lost Gardens of Heligan. In order to prop up its inept organisation, Dartington Hall Trust (DHT) has sold off buildings, land and artworks, has closed down much of what made its reputation in the first place, but to mess with this gem of agroecological ingenuity is absolutely a step too far. This single garden, which recently celebrated its 30th birthday, has arguably inspired more positive action around the world than anything DHT itself has done in those 30 years. This insane decision must be reversed immediately”. Rob Hopkins, founder of the Transition movement.
“A unique pioneering forest garden which is a jewel in the DHT crown is being thrown away with little thought given to its global importance, reputation and scientific significance! Does DHT understand the priceless nature of it and its value to the world at large? It’s a betrayal of their own objectives to run a centre of ‘innovative sustainability’., a betrayal of their history under the Elmhirst’s founding vision for DHT to be ‘a place that could change the world’ and where ‘ground-breaking experiments in land use, farming and education took place’. And lastly a betrayal of their own tagline in their annual report ‘To be a creative catalyst for more just and sustainable ways of living’!
To withdraw from their relationship with the Dartington Forest Garden would be a serious own goal! we cannot let that happen for both their sakes! Please let the Forest Garden continue to inspire the world!” – Minni Jain, Director, The Flow Partnership UK
I am astonished and horrified by this decision. The Dartington Trust is behaving like Donald Trump, gleefully destroying what it does not understand. It is trashing decades of pioneering work, and seems to have no conception of the value that will be lost. It gains nothing from this decision, while all of us lose. This is mindless vandalism.
George Monbiot
It is no exaggeration to say that my life changed the day I first visited Martin’s forest garden. That spark lit a fire that inspired me on a life of growing, writing and more – without that spark, I have no idea what my life would have looked like, but it is perfectly possible that my life in inspiring others to grow and cook would not have happened. It is a place where ideas and well as plants germinate. I am one of very many who owe Martin’s vision and dedication a great deal. The forest garden is unique, an exemplar, a place of hope in a difficult world, and the idea that ART and this incredible place should be separated is a national scandal that will be enthusiastically resisted.
Mark Diacono Author, chef, grower
The forest garden at Dartington is of global importance in terms the future of sustainable agriculture and is a key learning landscape for:
- Food security as part of environmental restoration ie feeding people without costing the planet
- Profitable and nature friendly carbon sequestration as a mitigation approach to devastating global climate change.
- Health improvement from special sensory landscapes and nutrition linked to species rich mixtures
- New opportunities linked to sustainable rural livelihoods based on a re-interpretation of “woodiness”
The older the sites the more valuable they become and these sites represent some of the oldest agroforestry landscapes in the UK.
Professor Steve Newman
The Forest Garden has for many years epitomised the values that Dartington Hall Trust held. It was an experiment in rural living to further the Elmhirst aim to make the estate truly relevant. Every time I walk past this garden, I feel connected to a deeper integrity underpinning Dartington.
There is a stark comparison between the uplifting presence of the Forest Garden over 31 years and the current process that seeks to close it down, for reasons of accounting.
DHT needs the forest garden now more than ever if the estate is not to become totally irrelevant.
Philip Franses
“To Dartington Trust
I am horrified that you are intending to give up the Forest Garden, this is terribly sad, after all the work which has gone into it, and the nourishment and interest for so many people, plus the ecological benefits.
What will you do with it, I hate to think.”
Lindsay Clifton
“I am very sorry to hear of this development at Dartington. I watched the first species of food plants being established there 31 years ago and have admired the project ever since. Martin’s work is invaluable and unusual. DHT must surely realise that the forest garden must be secured.
Very good wishes,”
Sue
“Why? Why? What on earth is there to gain from evicting the inspiring and unique Agroforestry Research from its 2 acre site? It’s yet another example of the Trust ( I use that term ironically) having no understanding of the vision and groundbreaking legacy that once was Dartington. From the letting go of the Art College through to the recent betrayal of Schumacher College, the trust has destroyed all that gave Dartington meaning and purpose. We are left with a shell promoting Wedding Fayres and Gym Memberships.”
Sincerely
Laurel Ellis MA, BA Hons Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture (Schumacher College)
Tending to the Earth and her forests is vital at this time.
For 31 years this project has been a positive step forward.
Please reconsider, respect the trees choose a constructive response not a destructive one.
M Smillie
Please listen to those who care and know, this would be a tragedy, I couldn’t highlight it any better than those commentented above. Years of development, education and growth, let it continue to grow. The regret would be epic … listen, please ❤️ “
Kind regards, Karen Anderson
“What horrible news that the forest garden is threatened! A few years ago I had the pleasure of attending a week end course. It was an eye-opener and an awakening! So much research and highly important knowledge being produced here for our common good! Many good thoughts from Norway 💚”
Hilde
“I am writing to DHT to please beg you to reconsider your decision to evict the Forest Garden. You are in a privileged position to continue showcasing possibly the best example of agroforestry in Europe and beyond. 31 years of responsible land stewardship and development to create a rich, unique habitat and a beautiful example of sustainable food production is not something that can just be packed up and started again elsewhere. You should be proud of this garden on your land and celebrate and showcase it.”
Zoe Baillie (she/her)
“I am appalled to hear that this wonderful project is being threatened and urge Dartington trust to reconsider its decision to terminate the lease. I have always thought of Dartington as a special place in a world consumed with quick profits at the expense of the environment, the arts, culture etc and this flies in the face of all that. With the current climate crisis, projects like the forest garden are more and more necessary. It is only with long-term commitments that true knowledge is gained and at 31 years old the project is just beginning to yield benefits. PLEASE reconsider renewing the lease on a long term!”
JEB
“I am writing to add my voice to the many, who ask you to reconsider shutting down the agroforestry garden. Please think again
Best wishes, Verity Newman
Dear Martin and ART crew
We are so gutted to hear that DHT even conceived the possibility of giving you notice. Presumably to do with plans for the Old Postern.
This forest garden is a gem of regional agroforestry exploration…a vital library for our future food security. Representing years of thoughtful research, sourcing and planting not to mention the plant growth and consequent ecology that has evolved.
Whilst we understand the need to bring financial stability to the estate it is inconceivable that, without clear communication about their wider vision to tenants and community alike DHT continue to make such radical, damaging decisions which operate contrary to the foundations of the Elmhirsts philosophies and the legal remit of the Trust itself.
We recently purchased a piece of land just up the road with an intention to develop a patch of agroforestry, totally inspired by the ART work and the tangible example of what’s possible that this living forest garden offers.
We will continue to do what we can to support you.
Best wishes
Helen & Jay Helen Jacoby
Dear Dartington Trust Team,
I am so sad this morning to read that the Agroforestry Research Trust has been given notice to vacate the Dartingtn site.
This edible forest garden is so precious, virtually nothing comes close to it in the UK – it is an exemplar site. The knowledge, expertise and beautiful edible and useful plants pouring out of that site, inspiring and supporting people globally for the last 30 years, is priceless.
The interconnected biodiversity on the site is unique and irreplaceable. Creating harmony between food, people and nature is a rare skill.
Please recognise what will be lost to humankind and nature if the Agroforestry Research Trust is not permitted to continue. Please consider what is the right thing to do in light of climate change and biodiversity loss for the future of people and wildlife.
I look forward to hearing that you are working closely with the Agroforestry Research Trust towards a better future.
Yours faithfully, Kirsten Brown
“I am truly appalled by the news that Dartington have given the ART notice to quit after 31 years. As a member of various community initiatives in urban Poole, I have relied extensively on the supply of expertise, knowledge and, indeed, trees and shrubs from Martin Crawford and the Agroforestry Research Trust. We have planted dozens of trees over the years in our urban community orchards and allotments.
It would be a crime to destroy the home of Forest Gardening in Britain.
Best wishes, Harriet Stewart-Jones
One of if not the best example of a temperate food forest in the world.
Worth more than words could say. I’ve learnt an amazing amount from that land and to destroy it would be a tragedy.
Thanks, Howard
A vital resource in a fragile world. This is devastating and the impacts unfathomable.
Kate
Dear Mr Fedder and Mr Harris
The Charity Commission Website for ‘The Dartington Hall Trust’ states:
‘Dartington is a place of learning and experiment. We work locally, nationally and internationally to achive change in three crucial areas: the arts, the promotion of a fairer society and the future of our planet. Working with pioneering thinkers, teachers, artists and social entrepreneurs. Dartington helps people to address some of the significant issues of our time’
To wake up to the news that the wonderful work of the Agroforestry Research Trust and the beautiful, World-renowned, 2 acre, 31 year old Dartington Forest Garden is under clear threat to be destroyed is heart-breaking. Let alone the threat to the intrinsic ecological value of the site itself, this sends a clear message to your existing patrons that you really do NOT care about the future of our planet.
I have been a regular visitor to Dartington, having stayed at the Hall numerous times. I have eaten with friends on many occasions at the White Hart, shopped and eaten at the Cider Press and we have been long term supporters of the Trust, over decades. One of my friends even left a legacy to the Trust in her Will. This is how much we thought of and valued Dartington and the work of the DHT. However, your decision to end the Forest Garden lease will change all that.
We have visited the Forest Garden, we have been on one of Martin Crawford’s fascinating and wonderful courses. We have been so inspired by his work, notably the Forest Garden in particular, this led us to make the decision to move home and purchase a small plot of land, where we are now creating a forest garden ourselves, using many of the trees purchased from the Agroforestry Research Trust. We are now beginning to grow our own food forest too, which I never thought possible. Surely you should be supporting the work of the ART, not helping to destroy it?! The Forest Garden exemplifies, so beautifully, all that you set out in your mission statement above.
So, we really cannot understand the reason for this decision to end the lease, apart from the obvious (yes, I see the DHT losses clearly stated on the Charity Commission Website too). But, beware… will you be killing the goose that lays the golden eggs? Think of those who support and value Dartington Hall. What else do they value? Speaking for my family and friends, I can clearly state right now that we will never cross the threshold of Dartington Hall again, and patronise any of the DHT businesses, if this decision comes to pass. There must be better ways to raise funds, avoiding complete alienation of many of your existing (and future) patrons and supporters.
Sincerely,
Anna Ballard
I was horrified to hear that the Forest Garden might be lost. This project is a unique and enduring example of a new and better way of growing food, improving human nutrition and creating a home for wildlife at the same time. It is an inspiration and an irreplaceable educational resource. I urge the Trustees to reconsider their decision and ensure that it continues to thrive into the future.
Dr Elizabeth Sheridan, Consultant Microbiologist, University Hospitals Dorset and Imperial College, London.
To destroy this vitally important modal of Temperate FG would be an environmental crime. DHT need to change their plans and recommit to their previous agreement.
Sally volunteer at Horsenden
Martin Crawford’s Forest Garden has been an inspiration to countless thousands of students and teachers alike. I was fortunate enough to be on a residential course at Schumacher College when I had one of the most profound and life altering epiphanies one evening in this magical garden. The realisation that came to me was responsible for the establishment of Nature and Therapy and the hundreds of people from all over the world who have now trained with us. So it is not merely a small vibrant space on the estate, it is the ripple effect of how many lives have been changed for the better due to its’ presence and care. To close this unique facility feels aligned with the closing of the college, and the destruction of North Woods – short term ‘Trumpian’ thinking and desperate measures that asset strip the environment.
Stefan Batorijs Founder and Director Nature and Therapy.
I am appalled to hear of the latest bombshell coming out of Dartington Hall Trust. The Agroforestry Research Trust is an amazing lifework of dedication to ways in which we can save our planet. It has in part inspired our journey on our farm and we have learnt a lot from Martin Crawford’s work and are now embarking on building a Climate Battery style Greenhouse to produce food for our local community. Examples such as Martin’s need preserving, showcasing and long term stability and surely gives so much more to the DHT than the potential greed of using that land for something more profitable. Use the Kudos it gives you! It’s not like you don’t own enough other land if you want to do developments!
Dartington has been for my lifetime, a central part of what has created the uniqueness of the Totnes area with Schumacher, the Art College etc and slowly this is being eroded… for what purpose. You are only as good as the community that supports you and the environment you exist in, so please overturn this appalling decision and think about the bigger picture!
Kind regards,
Sacha, Jacqueline and family.
The AGRT is the most amazing extraordinary and vitally important organisation, the work it is doing is groundbreaking, The Dartington Trust should be supporting them as much as possible and must renew their lease.
Viktor Wynd
Dear Dartington Trust,
I was shocked and appalled to learn this morning that the Agroforestry Research Trust has been given notice to leave their ground-breaking forest garden. Martin Crawford is a genuine hero in the field of sustainable food production, and he and his collaborators have created one of the most inspiring sustainable food projects in the world. I implore you to reconsider and retract this decision, and give the trust a long term secure lease or the option to buy the site.
I set up a more modest ecological food production project in Suffolk many years ago. Martin’s steadfast knowledge and determination on his established Forest Garden was an outstanding example of how to build a long term project despite all the challenges – he was, and he remains, a personal hero of mine. His example helped me to keep going when the going got tough, which it regularly did. But he, and his collaborators, need the site to continue this essential work. Please reconsider, the world will thank you for it.
All the best,
Joanne Mudhar Founder and former manager of The Oak Tree Farm (www.the-oak-tree.co.uk)
In a world where human activity so often compromises our connection with the living world, we desperately – desperately – need pioneering examples of how to live gently, deeply, meaningfully, in a way that honours the integrity of the ecosystems upon which human life depends. Martin Crawford and The Agroforestry Research Trust are a shining example of how to do this with deep commitment and unrelenting reverence. It is absolutely unthinkable for it to be destroyed. We all, collectively, would be profoundly impoverished by its loss – our imagination depleted, our vision shrunk, and the aspirations of Dartington Hall diminished. It must not be lost.
With warmest wishes
Stu McLellan
It is heartbreaking to hear that a unique pioneering forest garden is being abandoned. With all the environmental destruction currently going on in the world. It’s more important than ever to protect such an important oasis. No one who cares about the natural world can let this plan go ahead. Please do not let the Forest Garden die.
Kind regards, Hazel Sharrad
I find the decision by the Dartington Hall Trust to end the lease for Martin Crawford’s two acre agroforestry project absolutely stupefying. I could almost understand the inability of trustees Chris Maw and Peter Goldsbrough to grasp the pivotal importance of Martin’s work over thirty plus years, but fail to see how Rachel Watson and David Triesman could be complicit in such a decision. As chair, Lord Triesman’s statement, “… Dartington is truly unique. It brings together excellent art and design and, increasingly, innovative holistic work in social and environmental sciences and ecology. Its contribution to a just and sustainable future is legendary …” sits at odds with peremptorily ending Dartington’s invaluable assistance for this Forest Garden work which is of proven global significance. The educational impact of this project is itself legendary. Its value would increase with time.
Maybe Robert Fedder, interim CEO, can try to explain the reasoning for what seems a highly irrational and unjustifiable action. It’s time to think again. What a way to approach the centenary. Should not Dorothy and Leonard Elmhirst’s intentions be respected?
Jeremy Long
At a time when we need innovation in growing food and how we manage land use, this move seems unbearably shortsighted. To loose 30 years of research with a world pioneering project that is held in such high regard is a travesty. I urge decision makers to rethink this and instead put in protections that safeguard the forest garden for the future.
Andrea Burden
(to the Dartington Hall Trust)
I am not sure what you at the Dartington Trust think you are doing. Perhaps you feel that the survival of the estate with which you are entrusted depends on your making some difficult economic decisions. If so I want to urge you to consider a different path. One that ceases to privilege an idea of wellbeing and survival founded on economics. We are not entrusted with land and river so that we can extract commercial value from it – we are entrusted as stewards to care for the land, for all who live there (not only humans) and for the future. What Martin Crawford is doing is groundmaking. Legally you may have the right to evict him and destroy the forest garden, but why would you want to (other than to extract more financial gain – which can’t really be your deeper purpose, can it?).
I don’t think that any threats I might make around boycotting the estate or encouraging others to do so (I will of course do that) are relevant, for they emerge out of the same extractive, commercial frame that drives your decision making.
Instead I urge you to lift your heads, as we all must do, from the mire short term materialist concerns and see what is needed in the world and your part of our world right now.
Walk in the woods, and imagine them gone – and imagine that you were part of that loss. Or, in changing your decisions, imagine them flourishing a hundred years and that your courage was the movement that make that possible.
If you can’t have that courage who can? Who are you expecting to preserve our natural world?
Ann Knights
Professor of Leadership and Coaching
To the trustees and the directors of Dartington Hall Trust,
We are flabbergasted to read of the plans to finish the lease of the Dartington Forest Garden. I urge you all to take a tour with Martin Crawford and experience its value to the ecological world, and to Dartington Estate as a flagship organisation which promotes sustainability. This unique ground breaking Forest Garden is part of everything Dartington Estate holds high in value.
If this is about money: it would be a false economy too. We would be so disappointed with this decision and with the path the Trust has started to take, that we would not renew our joint annual membership (Henrieke Dimmendaal and Ellen Koenders). We would also intend to minimise attending performances, go the Barn cinema, and make use of the White Hart. Currently we spend at least 200 pounds a year at Dartington Hall.
I expect we are not the only ones thinking along these lines.
Please please, see sense, and do not evict the Agroforestry Trust.
With Regards,
Ellen Koenders and Henrieke Dimmendaal
The agroforestry research trust is an indespensable national asset that has been established for many years. It has evolved into an extraordinary ecological environment and library of resilient perennial crops that will provide knowledge to countless people around the world to adapt to the changing climate and still provide food crops.
I had the privilege of experiencing one of the many workshops that are provided there along with other people who had travelled from Europe to be there. It must be allowed to continue as the work is vital.
Anita Rowe
Dear all (at DHT)
I am absolutely horrified to hear that you plan to evict the Agroforestry Trust forest garden on your estate. This is a site of international importance both scientifically and culturally; indeed, it is a landmark garden in the journey towards a sustainable future for humanity.
I hear that the Agroforestry Research Trust and Martin Crawford had a verbal agreement with Alan Bolden to continue their tenancy and secure a longer term agreement. That you would now renege on this agreement is beyond disappointing.
My family and I regularly visit Dartington Estate in the summer, eat in the cafes and restaurants, park in the car parks, enjoy concerts etc etc. I can tell you for absolute certain that we will never visit again or give custom to any of your related sites or businesses, and I will strongly urge all my friends and contacts to join this boycott. If you cannot be persuaded to rethink this disastrous decision, I am afraid that you will come to regret it enormously in terms of lost business, lost reputation, prestige, cultural capital and goodwill.
I look forwards to hearing that, on the contrary, you wish to have positive reciprocal relationships with your tenants, and that you are committed to being part of a positive future.
Yours,
Kim Ashton
Sending you all our solidarity Martin. We can only imagine what you are going through right now. We will do all we can this end. Shocking, shocking news. What on earth are Dartington Hall thinking! This is bound to ruin Dartington’s reputation as well as destroy such a vital world ecological resource. Who on earth would do something so ecologically reckless – and reckless for DHT own business? It does seem a boycott may help them appreciate what they have done. I certainly won’t be staying there again. Just shocking what they have done.
Diane
Dear Mr Fedder, Mr Harris, and Trustees of the Dartington Hall Trust,
I write to urgently demand that you immediately reverse the deeply irresponsible decision to terminate the lease of the Agroforestry Research Trust (ART) at Dartington.
The ART forest garden is an internationally renowned asset, unique in its contribution to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, climate resilience, and education. Your decision to terminate ART’s lease will not only irreversibly damage an irreplaceable ecological resource but also cause substantial harm to Dartington’s economic interests.
Positive economic benefits of granting ART a long-term lease:
- ART attracts thousands of visitors each year who directly contribute to the local economy by staying, dining, and spending in and around Dartington. This proven economic benefit would only grow with long-term security of tenure.
- ART’s educational programmes and internationally recognised training courses draw significant investment into the region, bolstering Dartington’s profile and financial sustainability.
- A stable, long-term lease would empower ART to secure additional external funding and support, further benefiting Dartington financially and reputationally.
Conversely, your current decision risks severe negative economic impacts:
- Evicting ART will immediately alienate thousands of passionate supporters and visitors, significantly damaging Dartington’s brand, goodwill, and financial position.
- Such short-sighted decision-making undermines public trust in Dartington’s ability to act responsibly and sustainably, causing long-lasting reputational and financial damage.
- Dartington risks substantial financial liability due to its fiduciary duty under law to manage its charitable assets prudently. Destroying this valuable resource through short-term decision-making may constitute a breach of the trustees’ legal responsibilities.
As trustees, you have a legal fiduciary responsibility to safeguard Dartington’s long-term interests. Reversing this decision and granting ART a secure, long-term lease clearly aligns with both your charitable mission and your financial obligations under charity law.
Be assured: thousands of ART supporters—myself included—will act tirelessly and publicly to ensure this decision is overturned. This includes sustained campaigns, escalating public pressure, extensive media outreach, and direct action if necessary. We will actively spread awareness of the severe implications of this decision and advocate vigorously until ART’s lease is secured long-term.
I strongly urge you to fulfil your fiduciary duties, recognise the immense value ART contributes economically, socially, and environmentally, and immediately reverse your decision to terminate ART’s lease.
I look forward to your prompt response and to seeing Dartington act responsibly by granting ART the security it deserves.
Yours sincerely,
Josef Davies-Coates
The work of Martin Crawford has had an immeasurable impact on my life. 7 years ago, I first stumbled across some YouTube videos by Martin, filmed throughout his forest garden, and I was completely hooked. I partook in his online series, I then rushed down to Devon and visited the garden, and I own almost all of his books. I’ve planted plum yews and strawberry trees, szechuan peppers and medlars, all over the family farm, because he taught me – through his own experience in the ART forest garden – about them. All these years, I have held firm to the dream that one day I will be able to create my own version of the ART’s forest garden. I find the food forest at Dartington to be one of the most unique, educational and mesmeric places I have ever been. It is a one-of-a-kind place in the UK, and even Europe. To lose Martin’s forest garden would be like burning down a library. The amount of knowledge lost, at such a time as this when farming is on its knees, failing and struggling, and in desperate need of inspiration in our adaption to the challenges of climate change, would be a truly devastating blow. I have always thought of Dartington as being at the very epicentre of the sustainable agriculture movement, so it is very sad to see that greed has won the day, and this once venerable bastion of alternativity has been corrupted. Please don’t destroy this forest garden, it has quite literally shaped me into the agroecologist I am today!
William Farr, agroecologist and farmer
I only discovered forest gardens a few weeks ago at a talk by our local garden club, and was shocked to read about the eviction of Dartington, and urge the landlords to reconsider.
Chris Goble
As a gardener educated in Norway, we have, during my education and later as a teacher in gardening, visited the Agroforestry research Trust in Devon several times to learn from the work at the site. It would be a tragedy to end this important work – both for forest gardening but also for us to learn the important work of making a resilient food system, in these troubled times. We need a lot more places like this, not less.
I hope there is a possability to come to an agreement so this jewel of a garden can continue its role to educate and inspire people around the globe.
Best wishes! Yngvil S. Thomassen, Norway
We are so sad to hear about the actions of the Dartington Estate. We had a small permculture project in Devon several years ago. We brought trees from the trust and sign posted our students to it when we ran courses.
We still do today even though we don’t own the land in Devon any more.
This is such a profound mistake. How can they not realise this is the future we all need, and our grandchildren need. Please don’t give up and let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
with great love
Wenderlynn and Iain Bagnall
I want to offer a message of support in protest against the notice served to the DH Forrest garden.
To eradicate the Agroforestry Research Trust’s extraordinary forest garden, which has single-handedly inspired thousands of such gardens around the world, would be an awful mistake.
Such a resource and the practical wisdom that it generates is very special and worth protecting.
I would urge the Dartington Hall decision makers to see the value of this long term project – please let this living experiment that inspires such important optimism to continue to stand as a beacon of what is possible when we work with nature instead of against it.
Best wishes. Fi (landowner and student of the DH agroforestry school)
The forest garden in Dartington serves as a huge inspiration for the green transition around the world. Here in Denmark, for example, the forest garden principles are gaining ground! Both among private garden owners, municipalities(I don’t know if it’s called the same in England, but geographical areas with a political administration), companies and institutions, all based on the knowledge and theory we have gained through your work with the forest garden in Dartington. It would be a disaster if the forest garden were to be cut down.
My colleague and I have designed almost 100 forest gardens in Denmark, after visiting the forest garden in Dartington!
De bedste hilsner/Best regards
Jakob Nyholm Jessen
Dear Sirs (to the DHT)
I was very disturbed to see the fire and hire scenario unfold at the Green Table a few years ago and now you intend shutting down the forest garden after 31 successful years of showing people both here and internationally what can be done to improve food production without decimating the environment.
Shame on you. I trust you will think again. It is NOT all about the profit margins – that is how we as a species have created such a mess of our environment in the first place.
Yours Joanne Lurie
That you are being evicted with a years notice from land you have cared and nurtured for 31 years is an absolute disgrace. I cannot imagine how heartbroken you are. In this day and age where money takes precedence over nature in all aspects of life I worry about the world I’m leaving for my grandchildren. Surely the trustees of DHT have grandchildren they hope will inherit a kind, nurturing, healthy world and not one where grabbing money is the first priority.
Good luck in your fight to remain. If you do I’ll come and visit
Bea, Back to Earth, Northern Ireland
I am shocked and dismayed that your future is in danger. Having facilitated visits from participants on short courses from Schumacher College over past years I know the beauty of the garden, the value of the project, the inspiration it gives and the expert teaching Martin provides.
I wish you all success in your fight to stay on your site.
Caroline Walker
Learning about and visiting the forest garden at Dartington changed my life in a profoundly beneficial way. Like so many thousands of others I was inspired to create a forest garden. Those thousands of forest gardens now support billions of life forms and an enormous web of wildlife, all while producing food with minimal input. They are also places of beauty and sanctuary. The garden is like a rare jewel and it has sent ripples out across the world. In these precarious times we desperately need more forest gardens and this one is an absolute beacon. It’s completely irreplaceable. I can’t believe how short sighted this decision by DHT is. I had mainly stopped visiting Dartington but now I’ll be fully boycotting it, encouraging others to do the same and I will do all I can to support this campaign.
Ruth
To Dartington Trust
I am horrified that you are considering giving up on the Forest Garden, this is a unique asset built up over 30 years of possible global importance. It is not replicable, this is a tool for learning, study and much more.
Please, reconsider.
Best wishes, Steven Wilson Jones
The Dartington Forest Garden is one of the most significant and pioneering agroforestry sites in the temperate world. Its value lies not only in its extraordinary biodiversity and decades of careful establishment, but also in the vital role it plays as an educational and scientific resource. To lose this site would be to destroy a living, working example of what resilient, regenerative land management can look like – something we desperately need in a time of ecological and climate crisis.
Martin Crawford’s work at Dartington has had a profound influence, not only on myself but on thousands of people around the world. For me personally, visiting the site and learning from Martin’s tours has been life-changing, directly inspiring my transition from architecture to working in agroforestry and nature recovery.
I urge DHT to reconsider this decision and to recognise the forest garden’s unique contribution to the estate, to scientific research, and to global education in agroecology and regenerative land use.
Dominic Howe, Founder, Earth Systems Conservation
I hope for the sake of the generations to come that this forest will be saved. So much work has been done and so much can be learned about this unique place and a lot to be harvested in the years to come. It is all so Sad.
Mona Berg Evjen, Norway
‘This forest garden is worth more than any monument, any estate, in the temperate world. A carefully designed, regenerative ecosystem which serves as a home to many species, an irreplaceable source of inspiration, to thousands, likely millions, of students in temperate climates, environmentalists and gardeners around the world. A model representation of exactly what we should be striving for in our landscapes, and our research institutions. This forest garden represents over three decades of tireless work, for which we can choose to be deeply grateful, and for which there is no replacement.
Human generations alive today have the right to learn from these living forest garden ecosystems, and we need to now more than ever, to create the change we must see in our cultures and landscapes. This example is arguably the best we have, certainly in temperate climates. Dartington Trust, please reverse this decision immediately. The proposal that it may be taken away, or destroyed, is by definition a form of ecocide.’
Vanessa
I am almost speechless that the closure and or eradication of this superb garden could ever be contemplated.
The world is going to hell in a hand basket and one of the peerless treasures of our country is not something I would be willing to allow to be sacrificed.
I am a Permaculture Diploma holder from 1990 which I studied at the school on the estate. I made many friends of international standing on that course and have always felt proud to have a tiny foothold in that project. The garden is valued all over the world and is an example that is quoted and visited in the work of promoting sustainable horticulture, farming and forestry.
This decision needs to be reversed and whatever the reasons behind it they need examining carefully. Where are the ethics and principles which put Dartington on the map in the first place? You have lost so much from that original vision – perhaps you no longer remember where you come from.
Tricia, Exmouth, Devon
“This decision is not only ludicrous on moral, economic, environmental, and scientific grounds, but also stands in diametrical contrast to the legacy of Dartington Trust. It reveals this incarnation of the board as seemingly incapable of grasping the essence and responsibility of their appointment to run a trust, that is to preserve this incredible land and its flourishing conservation projects within – a widely respected, international attraction to South Devon, for agroforestry, ecological restoration, and one that cannot just be cancelled and (if desired) later reinstated after decades of meticulous and brilliant work. In a functional organisation with any concern about its remit, legacy and future, such failed leadership would be pressured to step down. In a just and rational society, irrevocable vandalism on nature, biodiversity, agriculture, and climate resilience would be criminal and persecuted in the strongest terms.”
Dr Tarje Nissen-Meyer
As a member, supporter, & alumni of the Dartington Hall Trust, this move to end the Agroforestry Research Trust’s 30-year tenure is intolerable.
It is indisputably the finest, living example of agroforestry in the Northern Hemisphere. Heavily published in the academic literature, it is a critical long-term research site for how our agricultural and forestry products are responding to climate change and demonstrating how they can adapt ahead of the curve.
To many of us working in the international climate sector and as a regional government executive in the United States (who relies on on-going work like this) disturbance of this site would be a crippling lose.
Sincerely,
Peter Wells
County of San Diego, Office of Sustainability & Environmental Justice
IUCN Commission Member CEM, CEC, CEESP
I appeal to Dartington Trust to change their mind about clearing the agroforestry
area on their land.. The food forestry is also a research scheme and needs more time to show the results of it’s function in carbon reduction and as food producer, extremely necessary to societies around the planet as extreme climate change is round the corner.
Yours
Anthea Chater, Buckfastleigh.
To the Trustees of the Dartington Trust, I lived walking distance from Dartington Gardens, and the forest garden for four years. I and my family regularly attended events at Dartington and when my friends from America came to visit I always shared the gifts of beauty and social responsibility that Dartington had to offer, especially the unique example of Martin Crawford’s Forest garden. I am a landscape architect much influenced by my years in Dartington.
I am the president and CEO of Rancho La Puerta, internationally known wellness resort and spa with 4,000 acres and 80 acres of garden under my care. What makes us one of the best known and best loved resorts in the world is our authenticity, our commitment to be exemplary stewards of the land and to enrich our local community, which we have done for 85 years. I know that this is what Dorothy and Leonard Elmhurst intended.
To not value what Martin Crawford has created and to not celebrate the Forest Garden’s contribution and significance is immoral and shortsighted. This action shouts to the world that Dartington has completely lost its soul, it’s authenticity, and it’s historical integrity.
Sincerely, Sarah Brightwood
Dear Mr Fedder, Mr Harris, and the Trustees of the Dartington Hall Trust,
My wife and I moved to Totnes 1.5 years ago. When we were visiting the area prior to moving, spending time on the Dartington Estate and seeing all the wonderful projects going on, with agroforestry being one of them, helped sell the area to us.
In the last 1.5 years, we have spent hours and hours walking in the grounds with our dog and then our newborn baby. We even became DHT members last March. Our membership is up for renewal in just 2 weeks. We do not wish to support the Trust if it is going to crucify such valuable and unique projects as the Agroforestry Research Trust’s forest garden. Maybe losing our £80 membership fee and the money from our purchases at the Cider Press and the other DHT establishments might not seem to matter. But I know that we are not the only ones planning to boycott the estate. Collectively, our actions will add up and counter whatever financial gains you may receive from using the current forest garden land for something more commercially lucrative .
More important than monetary gains and losses, though, is surely the question of morality or should I say immorality, that your decision to end the tenancy raises.
Surely in the face of a climate emergency and potential future food shortages in the UK, it is prudent to allow research into sustainable agricultural practices to continue? A project with 31 years behind it is irreplaceable and the learning it has and will continue to provide to people locally and far and wide is invaluable to us all. Do you have children? Grandchildren? What sort of world will they be growing up and living in 20, 30, 40 years from now? What will agriculture in the UK look like with milder, wetter winters, and hotter, drier summers, and more unpredictable weather patterns? Current agricultural practices need to adapt to avoid food shortages and the work of the forest garden can help this to happen.
Please reconsider your decision to give 1 year’s notice to the Agroforestry research Trust and instead give them security of tenure. The benefits of such a revesersal will be numerous, not least to the DHT’s reputation locally and further afield.
Yours, Lucy Walker-Mitchell
Dear Sirs (to DHT)
I write to ask that you reconsider the decision made by the Dartington Hall Trust to discontinue its relationship and cancel the tenancy of the Agroforestry Research Trust, the forest garden and the extraordinary pioneering work that it represents.
I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit the forest garden in November last year as part of a permaculture course. The tour conducted by Martin Crawford was one of the highlights in our 2 week programme – the foresight he had to begin this project over 30 years ago is inspirational.
It is hard to understand how the Dartington Hall Trust has reached this heart-breaking decision as it appears to fly in the face of the trusts stated charitable objectives:
‘Dartington is a place of learning and experiment. We work locally, nationally and internationally to achieve change in three crucial areas: the arts, the promotion of a fairer society and the future of our planet. Working with pioneering thinkers, teachers, artists and social entrepreneurs. Dartington helps people to address some of the significant issues of our time’
Your decision appears to be without care for “the future of our planet” or of the “pioneering thinkers” that are crucial to the change we all desperately need.
If the garden is lost you will be responsible for destroying a renowned exemplar of food forestry. You will I am sure be aware that food security is of increasing concern nationally and globally. Opportunities to understand how and what to grow differently are scarce and I cannot express how important the existence of this food forest is in extending our collective knowledge .
Supporting Martin’s pioneering work is undoubtedly a right path to follow and I am sure you will receive many letters like mine, urging that you reconsider your decision. I earnestly hope that you will do so.
Sincerely,
Penny Quilter – Trustee Weymouth Climate Hub – Growing Connections Project Lead
Please don’t destroy this beacon of light and learning, which is needed more than ever in our current global and environmental climate.
Helen
Good afternoon, (to DHT)
I have heard the devastating news of your decision to evict the ART from Dartington estate.
You need to reverse or modify your decision. This garden is a critical part of the story that lead to the current popularity of forest gardening in the UK. Perhaps you don’t realise how widely influential it is. Martin’s work inspired me to set up a community garden in Finsbury Park in 2010. I describe myself as an agroforester and reshaped my career pathway because I was introduced to the concept by Martin and his garden. In other words, it literally changed my life. No one else runs a garden as old and respected as the ART garden.
As an established forest garden with a huge diversity of species, it’s an irreplaceable showcase garden and educational resource. In addition, The Orchard Project has built a regulated qualification around Martin’s videos of the garden and large numbers of our students go on to visit his site or attend training with Martin. They want to visit the garden because it contains so many rare plants that aren’t growing anywhere else. Even the plant combinations are completely unique.
I have heard suggestions that the garden could be moved. I can assure you that most of the plants would not survive being transplanted because they have 30 years of intertwined root systems. Although councils can plant mature trees, these come from managed situations where the roots are relatively isolated and containerised. That isn’t the case with this fully realised garden. Your actions would definitely lead to the death of this unique plant collection.
Have you considered requesting an achievable amount of money and selling the site to ART? I don’t know what land prices are like down there but given the ART’s popularity, I believe they could raise a good sum.
Kind regards, Jo Homan
Agroforestry is the pioneering frontier of future farming in an ecologically sound way. To bring this project to an end would be a truly short sighted and misjudged act. Please reconsider.
Best wishes, Flo Garvey
Director, Sarratt Community Garden
Having used Agroforestry research Trust to source seed I can’t believe that they are to be evicted. It is a fantastic resource for those who want to grow resilient edible crops.
I am saddened that Dartington Hall trust would do this, especially with the history of that institution being one of education and alternative thought.
This decision to end the work of Agroforestry research Trust should be reversed.
Kind regards, Philip Richards
I am writing in support of Martin Crawford and his agroforestry project at Monkton Wyld Court. I was astounded to hear that he has been given a years notice to leave all of his outstanding work behind him. Martin is a well known and much respected grower with very specialist knowledge. I have bought trees from him in the past. I know this news has stunned the Permaculture groups.
I do not understand what can have pre-empted this move, but respectfully ask that you reconsider this decision.
If it stands, I would personally boycott ever going to stay at Dartington Hall – or to eat your food at the White Hart / rent or use your facilities. Neither would I use the DHT cider press shops, or watch films at the Barn at Dartington Hall. I would promote as much media coverage to this as is possible.
Heather
Dear people at ART
Such shocking news, I wrote to the King asking that your beautiful forest garden be protected as a beacon of hope.
It feels like everything and anything is for sale right now and only money matters. A madness.
Sending support and emailing your petition link far and wide.
Mel
The loss of the inspirational knowledge for worldwide education and science from the years of experience of growing plants and trees in the forest garden would be devastating and irreplaceable.
Karen.
Dear Robert (Fedder, at DHT)
I’m flummoxed by the press release ART have released about its tenancy. As you’re well aware the site at Dartington is world renowned and holds significant ecological value in its research and pioneering work. It also holds economic value in its role in bringing visitors to Dartington, in the tens of thousands as Martin notes.
This is exactly the kind of project that should be supported and which aligns fully with the founding principles of the Dartington estate. In your role as steward you have the capacity to ensure its long term survival for the benefit of so many. Please make sure this happens.
Yours sincerely
Alex Scott-Tonge
“To Dartington Trust
I think it is a tragedy and a gross injustice that you are intending to give up the Forest Garden, it represents such a vital and irreplaceable element of the ecological landscape. It is inexcusable vandalism – you must re-think.”
Stuart Pickles, Global Coordinator, Climate Coaching Alliance
I lived a number of years in Dartington, near the superb forest garden, and benefitted from both visits and courses there, which enabled me to co-create a number of forest gardens elsewhere. Having previously worked for ICRAF – now ‘World Agroforestry Centre’ – I was highly impressed by Martin Crawford’s meticulous and passionate work on agroforestry for temperate regions. Any plan to end this groundbreaking, highly inspiring project on the ground would be criminal, and it’s hard to understand how the Dartington Trust may have stooped so low at a time when we need this kind of work more than ever.
Annie Leymarie
(to DHT)
I am totally astonished with your decision regarding the Forest Garden
I appreciate the four of you are up against it but fear you’re clearly taking aim at your own feet
Just when you’re most in need of assistance to alienate yourselves from local, national & international potential support appears suicidal
The garden is a national treasure.
Tread very carefully & please reconsider this lunacy
Yours sincerely
Simon Fraser
The Forest Garden must not go, it is so precious, such an important research project.
This decision hurts the souls of all who understand the fragility of life on Earth, it is the food and medicine we need, a blueprint showing us a kinder sustainable way to thrive on Earth.
To those decision makers, leave this treasure be, step away from what you do not understand,
With hope that wisdom will prevail.
Paula Hermes Paignton
I am shocked and saddened to hear that the forest garden in Dartington is under threat. Martin and Sandra Crawford are true pioneers and internationally recognised for their outstanding and meticulous research into agroforestry and their beautiful forest garden is one of the most established in the world. I have sent countless friends, family and students on their tours over the years and I am utterly devastated by this news. If this goes ahead, I will from now on completely boycott Dartington Estate and stop recommending it as a place to visit.
Jeremy Weiss, Proper Edges and Velwell Orchard
Martin has created one of the finest examples of multi-strata agroforestry in the world. To enhance food security and preserve ecosystems within agricultural lands, we should promote food production in multifunctional landscapes. Martin’s forest garden serves as a living demonstration of the potential of smallholder agroforestry. His ongoing work and exceptional teachings have helped others apply these principles and practices on their own land. We need Martin’s forest garden to continue inspiring others now more than ever.
Meghan, Interlace Commons.
This site’s inspiration to thousands is immense and it can’t be moved. It has to be saved!
Katherine parrish
The forest garden is unique, an example of an alternative way of growing our food that we need to inform and guide us now and even more so as our climate continues to change further. What short sightedness from the Dartington Hall Trust to think the world will be better without this inspiring garden. We ALL need this garden.
DHT please reconsider and give the Agroforestry Research Trust a secure lease or allow them to buy the site.
Lisa Gray
To the Dartington Trust
I was incredibly shocked to hear of your intent to evict Martin and the team from the Forest Garden. I can’t begin to imagine how you can justify a decision to put an end to 30+ years of land stewardship and ecosystem support. We are in an unprecedented time when we need to be rethinking our relationship with food growing and consider how we will transformatively adapt to what is ahead and Martin and the team embody the principles of growing with the land. How can you deprive them from continuing to share their knowledge with others and support to the land they grow on. It’s deeply saddening. I would urge you to reconsider. Their work ripples out across the world. We will continue to need them and their forest garden indefinitely.
With love, Jenny (Wildlife Gardener and aspiring Forest Gardener).
The Dartington Forest Garden is one of the food forest/food garden and agroforestry examples that captured my imagination as a young woman, driving me to learn more about horticulture and herbalism, culminating in a lifelong passion for gardening and a desire to create my own food forest.
Many years on I still look to the Dartington Forest Garden for inspiration as my husband and I create our own forest garden. Ive always had visiting the garden in person at the top of my bucket list, should I ever get the opportunity to travel there from Western Australia.
My husband and I were horrified to learn that this dream may become an impossibility due to the Trust revoking the lease on the land.
Please reconsider ending the lease, the Darlington Forest Garden isn’t just “a garden” it is a legacy for the world, a beautiful example of what can be created
It is not only the flora but also the fauna that inhabit the garden that you are able to protect encourage and that will return rewards in unmeasured ways in the years to come for all of humanity.
Kelly Bray
I am sadden to hear the news fro. Dartington Hall Trust.
This seems once again an ill thought out plan . The trust has been reposible for push the orignal arts college off its grounds. Selling the gifted famous herny Moore statue that was situated on the estate.
And seems intent to ruin all long stating agreement set in place. The Dartington Hall trust has continues to fail.its operation on the estate but has also failed to support those who live locally within Totnes
Jason king
Why on earth would the trust want to do something as senseless as this? I am shocked and saddened. The forest garden is important for investigations into sustainable horticulture. The UK is depleted of far too much in the way of earth resources as it is.
P S Connor
I visited the Agroforestry Research Trust and Martin’s food forest in 2014.
I found it one of the most amazing place an Earth showing how humans can become a positive agent on this planet instead of a destructive one, while caring for their needs in harmony with nature. It has heavily inspired the Picasso Food Forest project in Italy and the network of grass roots project that followed it.
I can not believe anyone could think to put an end to this precious, pioneering, long term, inspiring, widely impactig project and beautiful and unique site. Please visit it, understand it and reconsider.
Francesca Riolo, Italy
I am a small farmer north Herts I grow cricket bat willows and a chalk stream bisects my 50 acres which is teaming with wild life.
I should like to be part of crowd funding.
If its money only let’s help them.
Access may be a problem and legal fees .Get a full price .
David Bruce Parker
Dear Dartington Hall Trust,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding your recent decision to end the lease for the groundbreaking food forest project, which has thrived on the Dartington Estate for the past 31 years. This project has not only enriched the estate but has also become an exemplar for sustainability and ecological responsibility.
The food forest has attracted over 50,000 visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy and promoting an understanding of sustainable agricultural practices. It has served as a living laboratory for scientific research on carbon storage, playing a crucial role in addressing climate change. The pioneering work led by Martin Crawford and the Agroforestry Research Trust has inspired countless initiatives worldwide.
Ending this lease not only disregards the collective efforts and expertise invested in this project but also raises ethical concerns about the motivations behind such a decision. The communication from DHT appears to suggest a focus solely on financial gains, potentially at the expense of the ecological and community values that the food forest represents.
Moreover, the abruptness of this decision feels like a betrayal of trust that has been built over three decades. Many of us in the local and ecological community have come to recognise the food forest as an irreplaceable asset—one that offers us a model for future sustainability. It is disheartening to hear that DHT are prioritising development over the preservation of such an invaluable resource.
I urge you to reconsider your actions and engage in an open dialogue with the Agroforestry Research Trust. Providing a long-term secure lease, or allowing them to purchase the land, would demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and ethical stewardship. Please remember that the ongoing support for the Dartington Estate hinges not only on its financial viability but also on its reputation as a leader in ecological practices.
Thank you for considering the impacts of this decision. I hope you will take the opportunity to reaffirm your commitment to sustainable practices and reconsider the future of the food forest project.
Sincerely, Jenny Thompson Organic Kitchen Gardener
To ART/DHT
If the movement for more climate resilient, agroforestry based edible plantings, and diverse orchards is to continue then having this 31 yr old space with the diversity of plants to learn from is vital. It has inspired many, including us, and needs to continue to be a place for that learning – as it grows, we all learn.
In support,
Resilient Orchards Cornwall
This is so sad to hear. I have been aware of the great work of Darlington for many years but it now seems to have really lost its way. Time for them to think again
Tim
Nooooo, I cannot believe this madness. I realise that the Dartington ‘Trust’ has become all about making money in recent years but this decision is a step too far and makes no sense at all. As a horticulturalist with 30 years’ experience, I was knocked sideways the first time I toured the Forest Garden with Martin. I learnt so much that day & was stimulated to learn more & pass on that knowledge. Do the trustees not understand that this is an internationally important resource, needed even more in our ecologically straightened times. This sounds like a typical example of a bureaucrat in an office somewhere looking at a map and arbitrarily dividing up parcels of land with no concept of the complexity of relationships, both vegetal and human! No one would dream of bulldozing a valuable old building, even though it could, technically, be rebuilt in a year or so. The Forest Garden cannot simply be replanted somewhere else – it is irreplaceable. I and my friends will most definitely be boycotting all things Dartington from now on until they reverse this ill-conceived idea.
Briony Baxter
I am devastated by this news. The Dartington Forest Garden is a priceless asset with an international impact and reputation. Some 15 or so years ago I attended a permaculture course there and was inspired to take everything I learned from Martin and try to apply it to my own venture in Italy (we are on Facebook as Gran Sasso Food Forest). It changed my life. This has been my focus ever since and I have attempted to pass on his teachings to young volunteers who come to help us out from all over the world.
Rather than seizing the institution, the Dartington Hall Trust could far better achieve their charitable aims by getting fully behind Martin and supporting his objectives.
Andy
To whom it may concern
Well done on your campaign to save the Dartington Forest garden. We need to steward our land in the UK to these high standards to protect it for future generations. Thank you for all you are going for people and planet
Warm wishes
Jackie
Dartington food forest proves that this system of creating food for everything that lives really works!
It is a shame to lose the knowledge and value that has been built up in this place over the past 30 years. It is a shame to breach the trust between two parties in this way. It is a shame not to look at the long term, but only at short-term gain.
People from all over the world (I am from France) know this place and recognise its value.
Dartington Hall Trust is not only losing local support with this, the rest of the world is also reading along.
Please reverse this absurd decision or give them an assured long-term lease or let them buy the plot so that Dartington food forest can continue to exist and continue their wonderful work.
Kind Regards, Marjan Vos, Association Les Minades, France
The Dartington Forest Garden and Martin Crawford have been a shining beacon and an exemplar of an alternative food system, one we will need to adopt widely in the future. I strongly believe it is of enormous relevance to the nation’s future thinking. Losing it would be a tragedy and a most perverse outcome. Both the garden and Martin’s knowledge should e viewed as national treasures and resources, certainly not to be tossed aside. I have never met Martin but his work has been a major inspiration to me for many years.
Best regards
Andy Gray
What madness drives the Dartington Estate these days?
I echo Rob Hopkins: this INSANE decision must be reversed immediately.
sincerely
Isobel Barnden
I started my food forest career with doing a master in evaluation on ecosystem services from food forest at Martin Crawford food forest, seven years ago. Now I have a thriving business established 15 hectare of food forest around Sweden, and looking to expand in Europe, all started with the help from Martin Crawford and his food forest. So, it has an international importance! Food forest is also the most cost-efficient way to solve many of todays social, economical and especially ecological problem, we are now in our earth sixth mass-extinction, which are threatening to be the end of our civilization so every successful example is crucial needed, and Martin Crawfords food forest is on of the brightest examples!
Stefan
Please do not destroy the forest garden at Dartington. It is the finest example of a forest garden in Europe. Martin Crawford and the Agroforesty Research Trust are known all over the world. His book “Forest Garden” is a key reference among permaculture practitioners. And it’s all based on the forest garden at Dartington.
On a personal note, I learnt everything I know about nut trees from Martin – half of the trees in our forest garden were grown by Martin – and it pains me deeply to think that the Agroforestry Research Trust and the forest garden might soon disappear. Please reconsider.
Alexis Rowell, France
The decision by Dartington Hall Trust to force the closure of the brilliant ART Dartington Forest Garden is devastating news for agroforestry research and practice. It has been hugely informative in my own journey with land stewardship, regenerative food production, and design. Landowners should be supporting initiatives towards UK food security and food sovereignty, of which forest gardens and food forests offer a significant ecological sustainable model. I do hope your local councillors and MPs are supportive of ART and can lobby DEFRA to intervene in some way. The shutting down of the Forest Garden is the equivalent of destroying thirty years’ worth of datasets and learning on food production. This isn’t just a local issue, but one of national and international food security significance, given the reach and impact of ART.
With support and gratitude,
Dr Jenna C. Ashton, Senior Lecturer in Heritage Studies
Wish you all the best in the fight to save this wonderful and inspiring garden.
Good luck
Best Wishes
Helen Chessum
I wish to add my support and voice to this campaign and request common sense for our environment, it’s research, protection, advocacy and educational resources are saved from this planned action.
These words from Dr John Parry also echo my own sentiments:
“This betrayal of trust by such a renowned establishment as the Dartington Hall Trust is devastating. The two highly successful Symposiums run by the Agroforestry Research Trust over the last 4 years demonstrated both the international interest and concern over food production and nutrition by young entrepreneurs and seasoned food forest growers. But the jewel in the crown, recognised by all concerned, is the Dartington site of 31 years and what can be learned from such an established habitat as it responds to changes in the climate. Such a resource and the practical wisdom that it generates and which is passed on to course attendees is very special and I urge trustees to see beyond the trees and let this living experiment continue in its present form.” Dr John Parry MBE, Hon.Sen.Lecturer in Education, University of Sussex
Yours faithfully, Sarah Woods
To whom it may concern at DartingtonHall Trust.
It is deplorable to hear the news of the notice being given to this space. Now more than ever we as humans, animal and plant life need space to be, space to grow and be natural.
We are set for 2 degrees of warming within the next 20 years. Crops will fail, millions will die. How do you find that ending the notice on a tranquil space for nature to exist is the right thing to do at this time on our planet ? Please, reconsider this decision. We have choices to make in these times.
Be on the right side of history and fight for nature and not for money.
Yours, pleading
Amelia Beaver Cornwall.
The Forest Garden at Dartington inspired me to create my own, write a book about it, and spread the word in the U.S. about this most regenerative way to produce food. 41 years of investment needs to be preserved and maintained. Negating Crawford’s lease is tragically short-sighted.
Dani Baker
Owner Cross Island Farms Creator The Enchanted Edible Forest
Author The Home-Scale Forest Garden: How to Plan, Plant and Tend a Resilient Edible Landscape
For me Martin Crowford and Dartington Foodforest are the great inspections and savers of my life.
I am 74 jears of age, and because of them, have a very active and wonderful life. I am Dutch and moved to France, and after my retreat, I was thinking of moving away because we live on 2 hectares, to big for us, what should we do on it. But I was very sad and down thinking of moving away from the only place I ever felt home. Then Martin Crowfords book, videos and Dartington foodforest came on my path. O my God ! I was so excited and know immediately what to do, so we had a new energy of life, we wanted to stay and we are making a foodforest here in the country of France, where very little people know what it is and the meaning of it.
How can I express my gratefulness, my love, to them my savers, my inspiration of my wonderful life.
Please, please, help them to continue, let this special mother Foodforest of 31 years of age stay with father Martin Crowford for ever and ever!
With love,
Astraea Blom France
I am utterly appalled to hear you are also being pushed off the Dartington land. Another world class eco project erased by the so called “Trust”. Your work is a total inspiration to others and so needed. We came on your course, grow on agroforestry principles, purchase your plants and books and attended Schumacher College. How can the Dartington Trust actively destroy so much, acting purely on economic grounds? Shame on them.
Barbara Marshall
With our small island nation needing to decarbonise, and to increase food security, agroforestry is a logical and necessary practice. Agroforestry research is a crucial tool for educators and land workers alike, especially now that climate change has direct and indirect effect on specific tree and crop species. The established project at Dartington distinguishes itself as a world class beacon of knowledge and hope, and we all deserve the benefits of its outcomes.
Again, I find myself questioning whether Dartington ‘Trust’ can be trusted with a contemporary version of the Elmhirsts’ vision and mission, or to value and evaluate its own assets, or to practice a business model that is any different to the one that has shafted people and lands for centuries past.
Do better, Dartington Trust, do better; please walk in step into our shared future on this planet, and use your power wisely. It isn’t too late to change your minds.
Lucy Lepchani
(To DHT)
I am writing to express my shock that you are terminating the lease allowing ART to maintain a forest garden on your land.
The idea of forest gardening has been transformational for me and since learning about Martin Crawford’s work I have been working to create my own and promote the idea up in Derbyshire. The idea has so much potential to combat our contemporary social and ecological crisis, it is essential that it is nurtured wherever possible. The forest garden on your land surely benefits you? My family and me, as well as friends from our town, have camped at Dartington and eaten in your cafe specifically to be close to the forest garden you host.
We all very much hope you reconsider.
Thank you for your time,
Dr Rebecca Coles
Dear Martin and all at ART,
Twenty years ago I attended a forest gardening course at Dartington, followed by several others and a few days volunteering. The courses, the garden and Martin’s expertise have been a huge source of inspiration for me ever since and led to me pursuing a career as a botanical horticulturist. There is no doubt that the forest garden is a uniquely important project which has a profound influence on those who visit it and must be protected. I hope that the short-sighted decision is reversed and that the garden continues to be a source of inspiration for the future.
Jim Penny
Been boycotting estate for some time now. Will definitely continue. Seems like the best and only way.
Carole
Dear DHT,
It is hard to believe that in your calculations you have managed to deem the ART’s food forest anything other than a net benefit to the wider trust; huge profile and reach, and minimal overheads or operational costs. That you seem to have done so, suggests that you are either seeking to actively move away from the ecological aims of the trust ( hard to imagine, though a logically sound reading of some of your recent moves) or using a vanishingly narrow set of metrics. Even if you claim to need to consider only financial considerations at this moment of apparent fiscal crisis for the Trust, a claim which the original aims of the Trust would obviously dispute, then you appear to be guilty of bad maths in this case, the consequences of which have already been well described by others; ecological vandalism.
Collin harker Cornwall
The decision by DHT to end the lease of the ART and all it stands for is shameful. The Elmhirst’s will be turning in their graves.
Dr Christine Bennetts
Dear Robert and Nick (at DHT)
The potential demolition of the Agroforestry Research Trust’s food forest at Dartington demands immediate attention as a nationally significant issue. A project spanning three decades, Martin Crawford’s pioneering work has yielded a globally recognised exemplar of a food forest system that has been instrumental in the growth of agroforestry within the UK, influencing institutions such as the RHS, the National Trust, the Forestry Commission and many more.
The Dartington food forest fulfils a crucial role in long-term food, BNGs, and carbon storage research, a vital component in informing climate change mitigation strategies. Its loss would constitute an unacceptable impediment to this vital work. Further, the Agroforestry Research Trust has clearly provided substantial benefits to the Dartington Estate through demonstration, supporting its facilities, and critical enhancing its ecological standing.
The timing of this potential demolition is especially concerning, coinciding as it does with the Forestry Commission’s increased recognition of agroforestry’s significance, evidenced by the formation of a dedicated national team. Demonstrator sites like Dartington are indispensable in educating and supporting the sector, whilst showcasing what an established system looks like.
The DHT’s apparent prioritisation of short-term economic gains over the long-term ecological benefits and contribution is frankly, alarming. A resolution that preserves this crucial national asset is an imperative, to which we must all resolve.
At the very least, you must be offering ART/Martin Crawford to buy the land, providing him with first refusal.
Kind Regards,
Dr Vincent Walsh, RegenFarmCo Managing Director
I am so shocked by the news that the Dartington Hall Trust has given notice to quit to Agroforestry. This a groundbreaking demonstration project that has provided a real world example of the principles of agroforestry which are now being adopted or re-adopted around the world in this time of climate emergency. Visiting some 20 years ago, it changed my approach to planning land use on a 3 acre plot. As a member of a permaculture group which sought better, more productive land use, visiting showed us in reality what could be achieved rather than pictures in a book.
Having been a trustee of some charities myself over the years I can say it is the primary duty of trustees to further the aims of the charity. Making money for shareholders is the ultimate responsibility of directors of companies. The difference is stark and clear. I hope the current DHT officers will have a rethink on this one before so many years of hard work and inspiration is lost.
Robin Lowe STROUD