Projects
East Devon Farmers Group
Supporting local farmers by providing skills, training, farm walks and social opportunities
East Devon Farmers Group
Supporting local farmers by providing skills, training, farm walks and social opportunities
East Devon Farmers Group
Supporting local farmers by providing skills, training, farm walks and social opportunities
The East Devon National Landscape is defined by its rich agricultural heritage, and our local farmers are key partners in safeguarding its future. This community holds the potential to address the challenges of the climate, nature, and wellbeing crises while still producing food and creating thriving farm businesses.
Supporting our farming community on their journey
We recognise the diversity within our farming community and are proud to support the East Devon Farmers Group, a proactive collective of local farmers open to learning, testing, and sharing best practice in sustainable and profitable land management.
“We believe that every farmer, whatever point they are on in their journey, can make a positive difference to our National Landscape – no change is too small to contribute.”
Of all the different land uses within the National Landscape, the area managed for agriculture accounts for
To equip the East Devon Farmers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support, the East Devon National Landscape delivers a tailored program of events throughout the year. This program is farmer-led, steered by the Coordination Group, a dedicated team of 6–8 local farmers.
By working with the National Landscape and developing co-operative relationships across the farming community, we can support farmers to make a bigger impact for East Devon.
Some of the events held in 2025
- Hedge management farm walk with expert Robert Wolton – exploring best practice for managing hedges to benefit wildlife, the environment, and farm productivity.
- Practical tools for minimising soil disturbance – a hands-on workshop with the Barnes family, demonstrating machinery that can improve soil health and boost long-term farm profitability.
- Introduction to agroforestry at Elston Farm – showcasing how integrating trees into farming systems can enhance sustainability, productivity, and resilience.
Emma Herrod, local farmer and Coordinator of the East Devon Farmers Group, said:
“I have been working in this role for over seven years and am proud to say the local farming community has gone from strength to strength. The group has provided farmers with expert advice and discussions, the chance to share knowledge and many informative farm walks. We have a range of farms within the group from small holdings to large dairy units; and we try to put on a mixture of events to accommodate every landowner. As a group we want to support sustainable food production, futureproof profitable farming businesses and protect the beautiful landscape we are so lucky to live in.”
If you’re a farmer or land manager in the East Devon National Landscape and would like to learn more about joining the group, or to find out more about how the East Devon Farmers Group are supporting farming and nature, contact the East Devon National Landscape team via email.
Alternatively you can call farm facilitator, Emma Herrod, directly on 07828475973.
Apply for funding
No posts found.
No posts found.