The Devon Hedge Group is a forum of organisations and individuals interested in working together to promote the appreciation and conservation of hedges found across the county. Members of the Group represent the full range of interests associated with hedges in Devon, including agriculture, the conservation of wildlife and landscape, and historical and cultural values.

Formed in 1994, it has been steadily growing in strength and influence. It has succeeded in generating a great deal of media attention, and has already done much to raise the profile of hedges in the county. We have produced a number of quality publications, including an award winning hedge pack, and have been commended by a House of Commons Select Committee for our work.

Member organisations include: National Farmers Union (represented by several farmers as well as officers), Country Land and Business Association, English Nature, Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Devon County Council, District Councils, Dartmoor and Exmoor National Park Authorities, Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), Devon Rural Skills Trust, Council for the Protection of Rural England, National Trust, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, Devon Wildlife Trust, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and the Forestry Commission.

The full Group meets up to four times a year, and is served by a Publicity Sub-Group which also meets quarterly. Between 1996 and summer 2002 the Group has through the Devon Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group employed a Hedge Promotion Officer, on a part-time basis. This has proved essential to the delivery of many projects, particularly those associated with raising the public profile of hedges, and providing advice, education and training.