A SCHEME aimed at bringing young people back into hill farming has brought fresh hope for the region's agricultural industry.
Fell Farming Traineeships was launched in July, 2003 by Voluntary Action Cumbria and involves the six apprentices working on groups of fell farms where their labour is split each week between a group of four or five employers.
The project focuses not only on traditional agricultural skills, but is also concerned with multi-functional agriculture, including the management of countryside features, the protection and enhancement of natural systems and adding value to local products.
The project is run by a partnership between Voluntary Action Cumbria (rural community council), the Lake District National Park Authority, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, the National Trust, University of Central Lancashire (Cumbria Campus) and hill farmers' groups.
Geoff Brown of Voluntary Action Cumbria said: "The Lake District National Park and the National Trust were becoming concerned about the lack of young people wanting to work in hill farming areas. The National Trust has had problems letting hill farms and was keen to support a concept to encourage young people back into agriculture and cultivate their interests in maintaining the landscape.
"Without people it can't be sustained with the traditional skills and knowledge that are critical to its survival. Hill farming areas need a skilled and labour-rich workforce both to run farms and to manage the landscape."
The first phase of the project is due to be completed this summer. The project is financed through the Cumbria Fells and Dales LEADER + Programme with support from the DDNPA and YDNPA and farming community.
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