'Why we're moving money up the hill'

'Why we're moving money up the hill'

3:51pm Thursday 1st May 2014 in News

Ihave visitedthe Lake District today to see first-hand the vital role that Cumbrias moorland farmers that play in preserving this treasured landscape.

Ivalued meeting sheep farmers, hearing their concerns and finding out more about how they support your local community.

Sheep farming has a long heritage in the Lakes rather like dairy in my county, Shropshire and even today, farmers continue to play a crucial part in maintaining one of Englands most beautiful landscapes.

Thats why my department, Defra, announced last week that we are moving money up the hill as part of our reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

This means that moorland farmers many of them Lake District sheep farmers will receive 90 per centmore money per hectare. From next year, they can expect about 56 per hectare, a 26 jump.

This money is vital for the Lake Districts farmers because their role extends far beyond producing traditional Herdwick lamb although thats obviously a crucial element.

By grazing their herds on this tough terrain, they maintain the entire upland environment: everything from tiny insects to flocks of farmland birds. Without their hard work, drystone walls would collapse, habitats would change dramatically and distinctive local foods like that Herdwick lamb would struggle to thrive.

Not only do moorland farmers in Cumbria have a vital role in preserving local heritage and traditions, they also help help make the Lake District the fantastic tourism destination that it is today.

Originally posted here:
'Why we're moving money up the hill'