Moorland farmers who help protect some of England’s most treasured landscapes will receive about £26 more a hectare under Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) payments from next year.

Farmers across the Yorkshire Dales, Dartmoor and the Lake District will benefit from this new rate, bringing their payments up to about £56 a hectare. These farmers work in some England’s toughest but most beautiful terrains. They support tourism by producing distinctive food products, managing important upland wildlife habitats and maintaining the landscape.

Secretary of State for the Environment, Owen Paterson, said:

Moorland farmers play a vital role in managing some our most treasured landscapes. This payment increase will help farmers maintain our moorlands and deliver a significant boost for tourism and the rural economy in these areas.

The new Common Agricultural Policy comes into effect from 1 January 2015.