THE North Yorkshire Moors countryside needs integrated development to survive as a result of the plight in farming, says a leading conservationist.

Geoff Belbin, chairman of the Moors Association in the national park, says in associsation's latest news bulletin: "It is time for MAFF and other funding agencies to integrate their priorities to allow for a truly joined-up countryside."

He adds that the national park - which next year celebrates its golden jubilee - contributes to the nation's health and is a lifeline for rural communities as tourism and recreation replace farming as the primary employer and economic driver.

Without farming, says Mr Belbin, the park countryside could become derelict, unekmpt, wild and inaccessible. "The answer must involve a future for farming in an integrated countryside, but a future less driven, less intensive."

Mr Belbin said: "The interdependence of farming, wildlife, tourism, recreation and rural communities has been clearly demonstrated."

He said the foot and mouth outbreak had "rammed home" messages about the countryside. "The nation must shake itself and ask serious questions. The Government, its advisors, quangos, lobbyists and interest groups must give answers.

"If we are to continue to pay for our food through subsidy, then we must claim a voice in the husbandry. If pig farming can be laid low by a discarded sandwich and national tourism decimated by a batch of pig swill, then it is time to ask questions.

"But if we expect high standards of UK landscape and animal husbandry, it is no good opening our doors to cheap but less environmentally-concerned and hunmanely produced food."

Updated: 08:54 Thursday, June 07, 2001