On Sunday 9th August 2026, a wildfire began to sweep through parts of the New Forest.
The scale of the destruction is difficult to comprehend. To put it in perspective, it’s the same area as more than 250 football pitches of habitat that has been affected.
Ancient oak and beech trees that have stood for hundreds of years have been damaged, and the fragile ecosystems that support countless species have been left scarred by wildfire.
The fire may have lasted 14 days, but restoring the damage it caused will take decades.
Will you help today with a donation?
Together, we can help wildlife recover, rebuild vital habitats, and create a more resilient landscape that can better withstand future fires.
If you can, please donate today. Thank you.
We’re grateful to the firefighters who tackled the blaze, to the local community and to everyone who supported the New Forest at this difficult time.
For everyone who loves the New Forest, it is more than a landscape. It's a place of memories, discovery and connection with nature. It's heartbreaking to see such destruction.
Yet even amid the devastation, there are reasons to be hopeful.
We’re now looking at ways to help the area recover, drawing on the experience of our staff in restoring areas affected by fire.
But while the fire may be out, the recovery journey is only just beginning.
Your donation could help:
- restore habitats damaged by the wildfire.
- support wildlife recovery and help it to thrive.
- equip teams with a specialist 4x4 vehicle.
- provide vital equipment to help protect the forest.
If you have any questions, or difficulty completing this donation form please email fundraising@forestryengland.uk
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Funds raised beyond the requirements of this appeal will continue to support our vital work across the New Forest.
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