The degrading Peak District Moors require sustained management to prevent further deterioration. Any visitor to the moors or anyone flying over them will notice the large areas of bare and eroding ground. This is not a problem confined to the Peak District but it is probably more severe here than on any other extensive moorland area in the UK.

Research suggests a combination of several factors causes the erosion: air pollution, sheep grazing pressure, uncontrolled fires, climatic change, recreational trampling and natural processes. No one can be sure of the precise causes at any site, but it is clear that once erosion begins it is a worsening problem unless tackled.

The loss of vegetation and peat is an aesthetic issue for walkers; an agricultural and sporting issue for landowners; an ecological issue for moorland habitats and wildife; and a long-term economic issue for water companies who have to remove water colouration and sediment from reservoirs. Restoring vegetation to bare peat will help enhance its water retention capacity and reduce downstream flooding.