Uplands use the topic of annual survey

The Annual Outdoor Visitor Survey conducted by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) seeks views on recreational use of the Isle of Man’s uplands.

The DEFA upland estate extends to over 8,000 hectares (20,000 acres), is publicly owned and freely accessible. It is a valuable, yet sometimes overlooked and under explored, asset for locals and visitors alike.

Public ownership provides significant control to limit damaging activities, whilst offering opportunities to shape future access, use and management.

Our upland habitats are the Island's largest carbon store, facilitating low input/output food production. They are a vital resource providing all of our freshwater, flood regulation and, numerous habitats supporting iconic species of wildlife.

Recreational use is balanced with the interests of stakeholders, neighbouring private landowners and other users.

The wide-ranging survey asks people whether they use the uplands, what they use them for, how they feel they benefit the Island and what they think of signage, paths, etc.

The survey runs until Sunday 5th September.