The vision sets a course for long-term success and highlights how government and stakeholders can work in partnership with upland farmers 鈥� many of which are tenants 鈥� to deliver on nature and conservation targets, produce nutritious food for the nation, and safeguard the future of the family-run businesses at the heart of the rural economy.听
It outlines a vision for: 听
- Upland farm business to be prosperous, resilient, diverse and innovative so they鈥檙e able to support the environment and food production in tandem.听
- Policy makers and upland farmers to work together to ensure farm businesses are fully recognised, valued, supported, and actively involved in shaping and delivering environmental outcomes.听
- Recognition of the unique heritage and cultural value of upland landscapes as the backbone of proud, resilient rural communities where people live, work and visit. 听
- Upland farm businesses that deliver healthy ecosystems, climate mitigation and national environmental targets. 听
NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: 鈥淯pland farmers are the custodians of some of our most cherished landscapes. These landscapes, rich in cultural heritage, wouldn鈥檛 be what they are without the farmers who鈥檝e cared for them. You can鈥檛 have 鈥榮unlit uplands鈥� without the people who made them that way.听
鈥淏ut the future of upland farming is under serious threat. The rapid decline in direct payments, uncertainty around the future of agri-environment schemes 鈥� which 49% of upland farm businesses are in2 鈥� and the impact of the family farm tax are putting their livelihoods at risk.听
鈥淥ur vision sets out clear actions for how government and stakeholders can work with upland farmers to secure their future and protect the landscapes they manage. These farms produce climate-friendly food, deliver public goods like flood mitigation and nature recovery, and sit at the heart of rural economies. The roadmap is here, now we need targeted policies to unlock the full potential of upland farming.鈥澨�