THE Quantock Hills National Landscape Team hosted a dynamic and collaborative workshop focused on the future of the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme.

Held at the Quantock Hills National Landscape Offices on Tuesday, June 24, the event brought together Defra and FiPL officers from the southwest region for a day of shared insight, practical discussion, and field-based learning.

Led by Keith Luxford, senior policy advisor for Defra, the morning sessions explored key challenges and opportunities in delivering FiPL, including programme delivery, mitigation strategies, and the future exit plan. The workshop offered participants a rare chance to engage directly with Defra in a more collaborative and meaningful way than typical virtual formats allow.

Participants also heard from FiPL Officers who shared on-the-ground experiences and successful approaches, fostering a spirit of openness and mutual support.

The afternoon featured a visit to a local micro-dairy operated by tenant farmer Phyllida Warmington, showcasing how FiPL is making a tangible difference on the ground by supporting sustainable farming in a protected landscape. Phyllida’s project has directly benefited from FiPL grant funding, which has supported the development of key infrastructure and enabled the introduction of nature-friendly farming practices. Funding has also contributed to the creation of silvopasture and the establishment of wildflower meadows for grazing — enhancing biodiversity, improving soil health, and creating a more resilient and sustainable environment for both livestock and wildlife.

Following a highly informative farm tour, visitors were invited to try the yoghurt which Phyll produces onsite, using the milk from her small dairy herd: definitely the highlight of the day.

If someone thinks they are eligible for funding from the Farming in Protected Landscapes grant – the application window is still open – visit the QHNL FiPL webpage for full eligibility criteria and contacts.