Major funding decision brings long-term support for Dartmoor farming and land

Farmers and land managers on Dartmoor will continue to receive government support after confirmation that the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme will run for another three years.

The announcement was made by Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds at the Oxford Farming Conference, with confirmation of the extension of the scheme between 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029.

£30 million of national funding was confirmed for 2026/27, with funding levels for later years to be announced in due course.

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Dartmoor National Park Authority said the decision gives reassurance to local farmers and helps protect the long-term future of the moor’s landscapes, wildlife and communities.

Since FiPL began in 2021, Dartmoor has received £3.3 million, supporting more than 200 projects, including work to improve nature, tackle climate change, strengthen farm businesses and improve public access.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Chief Executive Kevin Bishop expressed his delight in the news of a three-year extension of the scheme.

“FiPL is an innovative scheme, it provides funding to farmers and land managers to improve access, enhance nature, tackle climate change and support the development of farm businesses.

“This extension will provide important funding to help sustain and enhance Dartmoor over the next three years.”

In her speech, the Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds highlighted the value of the scheme to upland areas such as Dartmoor.

“During our time with upland communities, we also heard how much farmers value our Farming in Protected Landscapes programme.

“Today I’m pleased to announce we’re extending the programme for another three years – with £30 million in funding next year.”

She also announced a new long-term partnership focused on Dartmoor, working with social entrepreneur Dr Hilary Cottam and local communities.

Ms Reynolds said the aim is to develop a “place-based approach” shaped by local people.

“I’m announcing that Dr Cottam and Defra will start a long-term partnership with communities in Dartmoor… co-designing solutions to specific problems.”

She added that communities should lead change “from the ground up”.

The FiPL programme brings together farmers, protected landscape bodies and local communities to deliver projects that single farms could not achieve alone.

Dartmoor National Park Authority thanked farmers, land managers and partners for their work so far, saying their efforts have made “a lasting difference” to Dartmoor’s landscapes, wildlife and communities.

Farmers and land managers can register their interest in future funding through the Dartmoor National Park Authority website.