South Uplands Group Chair Mat Cole hosted the launch at Greenwell Farm, Yelverton, with NFU Deputy President David Exwood.
The vision outlines how government, farmers and partners can work together to achieve a sustainable future for farming businesses on the uplands.
Vital role of the uplands
Mr Cole told attendees about the many vital roles uplands farms play – as well as supporting the tourism industry, which is an important part of the rural economy.
“We have thousands of visitors to Dartmoor and other upland areas every day which is brilliant, but these commons and these upland areas really do the heavy lifting for food production, water supply and biodiversity and it’s really important that is recognised,†he said.
“No two farming businesses are the same. The policies and the framework need to be robust enough to cope with the differences and support us so our businesses can thrive.
“Without the farming community and the support around them, everything falls down. It’s really important that we get that across and this vision document helps to lay those foundations.â€
Clear actions set out
David Exwood said: “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.
“We have the roadmap, now we need targeted policies to unlock the full potential of upland farming.â€