Farming Subsidies - Where Northumberland National Park Stands

Northumberland National Park Authority is obviously concerned about the impact of CAP reform on the viability of farms in its area. In fact, more than anyone we recognise the importance of farming to the continuity of the landscape, culture and local economy. National Park staff actively assist farmers in their applications for stewardship schemes and other rural development support. Given that the nature of food supply is changing world-wide, there are a number of positive points about the new scheme which the National Park Authority welcomes and which should not be dismissed out of hand.

Firstly, the constructive effect that the scheme will hopefully have on the landscape as stock numbers are reduced. Overstocking, encouraged by headage payments has been a blight on the quality of the land right across the Park. Where grazing levels have been reduced plant species have increased, followed by insects and the birds and animals that feed on them. A good side-effect of increased biodiversity in grazing land is the effect on the quality of the meat produced – both in flavour and nutritional content.

The traditional features of our landscape, such as hay meadows and stone boundaries, bridges and buildings, all add to the rich distinctiveness and appeal of the countryside for residents and visitors alike. Attracting visitors to historic and landscape assets and making them feel welcome is key to the new income streams of many farmers who have been encouraged to diversify into visitor services, and also to the village shops, pubs and galleries without which rural communities would lose their heart. Paying farmers to make sure these things are kept in good heart seems like a good all-round solution.

What's your view?  Email us at hottopics@nnpa.org.uk