Farmers and landowners across the Mendip Hills are being given a £358,000 lifeline to carry on work that protects wildlife, tackles climate change, and keeps the countryside thriving.

The cash comes from the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) scheme, which has just had its funding renewed for a fifth year by Defra. Since launching in 2021, the scheme has already pumped over £1 million into local projects — and it's made a real difference on the ground.

Think fresh hedgerows, wildflower meadows, restored ponds, and thousands of new trees. So far, FiPL-funded work in the Mendips includes 11.5 km of hedgerows restored or planted, 37 ponds created or brought back to life, and 6,475 trees in the ground. It's not just good for biodiversity — it helps fight flooding, boost pollinators and even store carbon.

The programme supports anything that enhances the Mendip Hills National Landscape — from habitat restoration to community events. Grants have backed everything from hedge-laying and tree planting to educational workshops and even the South West's first food and farming conference, LandAlive.

Lucy Stockton, Farming Engagement Officer for the Mendip Hills, says the focus now is on connecting these wild spaces together.

"We know that wildlife habitats need to be connected to each other in order for biodiversity to thrive," she said. "We can already see some amazing connections happening across the Mendip Hills. This year we're especially keen to join up the gaps — particularly on the grasslands of the southern slopes and along the new National Nature Reserve."

The funding pot for this year sits at £358,300, and the FiPL team is calling on farmers, land managers and anyone with a good idea for nature-friendly farming to get in touch.

A local panel — made up of experts in wildlife, farming and countryside access — helps review applications and make sure each project delivers real value.

Got an idea to boost wildlife or restore your land? The FiPL team offers one-to-one advice and wants to hear from you. Email [email protected] or [email protected] to find out more and apply.