Working with farmers
Farmer and Landowner Attendees at a workshop (Credit S Allen-Mepham/BCT)
Connecting People and Landscapes (CPL) works directly with farmers and landowners to support the transition to regenerative, nature-friendly farming. Our approach is grounded in collaboration, practical advice, and a shared ambition to improve biodiversity, soil health, and climate resilience—while producing food that supports people and planet.
Focus Farms and Demonstration Sites:
The project is centred around six focus farms across South and East Devon. These farms act as demonstration sites, showcasing how regenerative agriculture can work in practice. From species-rich grassland restoration to managed grazing and agroforestry, they are models of innovation, peer learning and ecological restoration.
One-to-One Farm Advice:
We provide tailored land management support to farmers through on-farm visits and advisory sessions. CPL’s Farm Environment Advisor works with landowners to develop practical, site-specific conservation plans. This includes guidance on habitat improvements, soil testing, species monitoring, and accessing agri-environment funding.
Peer Learning and Farmer Networks:
We are developing regional farm clusters to connect farms in similar landscapes. These groups offer peer support, knowledge exchange and joint training. Many of our focus farms already sit within facilitation fund groups or Landscape Recovery schemes. CPL builds on these networks, adding specialist expertise in biodiversity, climate resilience and regenerative practices.
Training and Grants:
We offer workshops on topics like soil health, managed grazing and conservation techniques, all supported by practical field days. Alongside this, our Agri-Conservation Grant Scheme supports farm-based habitat and species improvements where other funding sources don’t apply. Farmers co-develop project plans with CPL’s advisors and can access support with implementation.
A Lasting Legacy:
The goal is long-term impact. By training farmers, providing practical tools, and helping farms become education and engagement hubs, we’re supporting a farming future that is profitable, productive and rich in wildlife. The focus farms, training programmes and farmer networks will continue to inspire others beyond the life of the project.
