The RSPB has described a fire which ravaged a hectare of new woodland at Dovestones on Saturday night (19 March) as "a blow to carbon sequestration, biodiversity" and locals who helped create this woodland.
It took several hours for firefighters to bring the blaze under control and the A635 Greenfield to Holmfirth Road was closed to traffic for a time.
But Kate Hanley, RSPB warden, said: "We will not let this get us down! RSPB staff and our wonderful and hard working volunteers will be out next week replacing trees that died. We are working with the police to determine the cause of this fire."
She went on: "The RSPB and United Utilities work hard to restore these landscapes into something that is wetter and more resilient to fires, that sequesters carbon and slows flood waters and that supports biodiversity.
"In the long run, this will mean that the land will burn less readily, as well as providing all these amazing public goods for the rest of society. Every fire, whether accidental or deliberately set, puts this progress back a step. We are currently supported by a Defra Nature for Climate Peatland Restoration Grant.
"We ask everyone please not to BBQ or have campfires (indeed not to have fires of any sort including fireworks and lanterns) in the countryside.
"Dovestones and much of the surrounding moorland is covered by a Public Space Protection Order, which means anyone having fires of any kind, even a small BBQ, could be fined and could potentially face more severe penalties as happened last year after a fire on near by moorland.
"If you visit Dovestones, you will see our Fire Rangers who will ask you not to BBQ. Please take heed, and help us by enjoying the countryside responsibly.
"We ask the public, as they are out and about enjoying the wonderful countryside, to please be extra vigilant for fire and smoke.
"Any smoke or fire at all, no matter how small, please call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service as soon as you can.
"Use what3words to help them know your location and give as much detail as you can about where the fire is and what it looks like. It is much better to report a small fire so that it can be put out before it gets big! Do not attempt to tackle a fire yourself.
"If you would like to support us, please consider becoming a volunteer.
"Contact us at dovestone@rspb.org.uk and one of our wardens will get back to you as soon as they can. You can volunteer for fire watch duty, for practical conservation work, or for people engagement.
"Lots of brilliant opportunities available, and whatever time you can commit will be much appreciated."
Two fire wardens employed by the RSPB were on duty from 1pm until dark on Saturday and Sunday. They confiscated a number of BBQs from people.
There is no evidence the fires, which started after dark, were caused by BBQs.
The Dovestone marshals will be in place and on duty at the site over the coming months.
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