A thriving future for the nation’s most iconic landscapes depends on resilient, productive upland farm businesses, declares a bold new NFU vision for the uplands.

The vision sets a course for long-term success and highlights how government and stakeholders can work in partnership with upland farmers – many of which are tenants – 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.

It outlines a vision for:

1. Upland farm business to be prosperous, resilient, diverse and innovative so they’re able to support the environment and food production in tandem.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Upland farm businesses that deliver healthy ecosystems, climate mitigation and national environmental targets.

NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “Upland farmers are the custodians of some of our most cherished landscapes. These landscapes, rich in cultural heritage, wouldn’t be what they are without the farmers who’ve cared for them. You can’t have ‘sunlit uplands’ without the people who made them that way."

“But the future of upland farming is under serious threat. The rapid decline in direct payments, uncertainty around the future of agri-environment schemes – which 49% of upland farm businesses are in – and the impact of the family farm tax are putting their livelihoods at risk."

“Our 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.”