Dangers of dumping hay highlighted at Verderers Court

THE dangers of dumping unwanted hay in the New Forest have been highlighted by the Verderers Court.

In a warning to equestrians, Richard Deakin told the meeting that hay is often found dumped on the Forest in spring and summer when it is deemed “unfit” for riding ponies.

He said: “Those responsible are often horse owners who have hay that they deem unfit for their own animals because it is mouldy or dusty, and they think a good way of disposing of it is to feed it to the Forest animals.”

He added that as well as risking the health of ponies, it would also lead to aggressive behaviours.

Mr Deakin continued: “Members of the public, including residents, should never feed the Forest animals or put out on the Forest anything which the stock may eat.

“The animals have all they need on the Forest. Those which lose condition are taken home by their owners and provided with supplementary feed.”