In her speech to the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference, Ms Reynolds laid out the importance of protecting the uplands for a prosperous farming future, identifying that they are ‘among the country’s most valued landscapes, shaped by generations of farming and community life’.
“From Dartmoor to the Lake District, [the uplands] supply around 70% of the UK’s drinking water. Upland farming plays a vital role in maintaining these landscapes and habitats," she said.
Distinct challenges
“Upland farms also face distinct challenges. Short growing seasons, poor soils, steep terrain and remoteness increase costs, limit yields and make everyday operations more difficult. These pressures affect local communities too, where services are often distant, affordable housing is limited and opportunities for young people are fewer.
“To explore new ways of addressing these challenges, we have partnered with Dr Hilary Cottam OBE, a social entrepreneur known for innovative, relationship-based approaches to social change.
“Working with Dr Cottam, the next step will be to develop a place-based approach shaped by the needs of upland communities, with solutions co-designed around local challenges.
“This will include building a shared understanding of how land can support food production alongside wider public benefits, underpinned by strong local governance that reflects the realities facing upland farms and communities.
“The work will also explore how public, private and third-sector funding can be better aligned to create new income opportunities and build the skills and networks communities need to shape their own future. At its core, the aim is to support change that is led locally, by communities themselves.
“This marks the beginning of a long-term partnership. We will start by working with communities in Dartmoor, followed by Cumbria.”
“It is vital Dr Hillary Cottam’s work fully recognises the complexities and challenges of farming in these landscapes.”
Uplands Group Chair Mat Cole
Vibrant rural communities
Mr Cole, who farms on Dartmoor, said: “These family-run businesses are at the heart of vibrant rural communities, supporting our national food security, biodiversity, and cultural heritage through generations of sustainable land management.
“Dartmoor’s farmers face unique challenges of farming in a remote and demanding environment. Despite this, upland farmers continue to lead in environmental delivery, food production, and landscape stewardship.
“It is vital Dr Hillary Cottam’s work fully recognises the complexities and challenges of farming in these landscapes. We know this process will take time but it is essential that this work results in meaningful policy change to secure the long-term future of prosperous uplands farm businesses.
“We look forward to fully engaging in this process and ensuring the voice of Dartmoor’s farmers is clearly heard and central to shaping the way forward.”
Uplands vision
The NFU launched its own uplands vision report last summer, demonstrating how government, farmers and partners can work together to achieve a confident, sustainable future for the businesses at their heart.
