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There are two factors that, to me, justify subsidizing Herdwick sheep that have nothing whatsoever to do with tourism.
The first is the important genes that the Herdies breed back into the broader sheep population as a whole. Yes, their fleece is no longer economically viable, but by crossing the Herdwick sheep back to the "softer" lowland breeds, those breeds are made hardier and more resistant.
The second, and perhaps most important in some ways, is the very real need to maintain biodiversity in a time of climate change. By protecting heritage breeds of animals, and heritage varieties of plants, we improve the chances for all varieties and breeds in a rapidly changing environment. Oh, and not insignificantly (close your eyes, Catlady), we improve the taste of the food we eat!
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