Simplified environment scheme is worth a second look

If you’ve been put off in the past by the lengthy, competitive application process and struggled to choose from the endless options, it may be worth another look this year.

The scheme provides financial incentives for land managers to look after and enhance the natural environment, in particular the diversity of wildlife and water quality. Options are targeted at improving the farmed environment for farmland birds and pollinators by providing food sources and nesting habitats, and to reduce diffuse water pollution from agriculture.

Following feedback from farmers and low numbers of applications over the last few years, Natural England are looking to encourage more farmers to enter stewardship schemes and have introduced four new ‘wildlife packages’ which are simpler and non-competitive. Agreements last for five years, starting January 2019 and application forms are available online or direct from Natural England.

The familiar Mid-Tier and Higher-Tier Schemes are still available and remain competitive based on a points system, with higher points allocated to applications meeting local priorities and offering a wide range of options. The Higher-Tier scheme is targeted at environmentally significant sites including commons and woodlands where more complex management is required. Application packs must be requested from Natural England by May 31.

The Countryside Stewardship application window for all types of agreements closes on July 31.

Capital options are also available, including fencing and concrete yard renewal. Capital options can either be incorporated into a Mid-Tier or Higher-Tier agreement or, for options directly targeting water pollution, applied for as stand-alone Water Capital Agreement. So, if you are looking at carrying out some farm improvements that also benefit the environment, this might be worth considering.

The Hedgerow and Boundaries Grant is back and there’s more money available this time, offering up to £10,000 towards the restoration of existing boundaries. Applications are open now and close on April 30.

Also available is a Woodland Creation Grant for the creation of new woodland areas. As well as help from your agent, you can ask for advice on putting together an application from the Forestry Commission. Applications are open now and close on February 16.

If all of this has got you thinking and you fancy some bedtime reading, further information on all of these grants is available on the gov.uk website.

Anna Jovanovic, Moule & Co