Farming Talk: Deadline date for grant aid applications

Much of north Shropshire lies within the catchment areas of the rivers Perry, Tern and Roden. For many farmers within these areas, there is now the possibility of grant aid for up to 50 per cent of the cost of various capital works.

The aim of the scheme is to control diffuse water pollution from agriculture. The scheme is operated by Natural England and applications have to be made by April 30. There are a total of 50 catchment areas throughout England where the scheme is targeted.

Agriculture covers 70 per cent of the land area of England, so it is not surprising that it is one of the biggest sources of diffuse pollution. This can include excess nutrients from fertiliser and manure.

Much of this is caused by run-off from farm buildings and pasture land. With this in mind, the scheme offers grants toward capital expenditure specifically to mitigate these issues.

There is a long list of items that can be claimed for but these include protective fencing against watercourses, hardcore in gateways and around water troughs to prevent water run-off and better drainage in and around farm buildings to separate clean water and avoid contamination with dirty water.

Farming is certainly not the only cause of diffuse water pollution but it does cause 70 per cent of sediments entering our water, 60 per cent of nitrates and 25 per cent of phosphorus. The capital grant scheme provides farmers with vital help to put in place measures to reduce the risk of pollution.

The scheme is an important part of Defra's 'carrot and stick' approach. Farmers already risk fines and penalties for causing pollution through the cross-compliance rules. A new rule, (GAEC) 19 (No Spread Zones) was introduced on January 1. This prohibits the application of inorganic fertiliser within two metres of surface water or the application of organic fertilisers within 10 metres of surface water.

Farmers are now required to keep maps of surface water, springs, wells and boreholes on their farm if they apply artificial fertiliser.

For up-to-date information on this scheme and Cross Compliance generally contact Barbers Rural on (01630) 692500 or visit the Natural England website or the Defra and RPA websites.

Mike Taylor is a Chartered Surveyor and the Senior Partner of Barbers Rural Consultancy, Market Drayton.