The first meeting of the Farming and Food Partnership Board
The Farming and Food Partnership Board met for the first time yesterday, bringing together leaders from farming, food and retail.
Farming and Countryside Team
SFI26: details, definitions and what to expect
In this post, we explain what to expect from the Sustainable Farming Incentive offer in 2026. We also share the list of the 71 actions available in the new offer, with payment rates.
NFU26: how we’re building farming resilience
Today at the NFU Conference, Secretary of State Emma Reynolds shared more detail on how government will deliver its vision for agriculture. In this post, we summarise the announcements in her speech and what they mean for the sector.
Introducing the new nutrient management planning tool on GOV.UK
Managing nutrients effectively is one of the most important jobs a farmer does. To make this easier, we’ve launched a new tool on GOV.UK.
OFC 2026: clarity, partnership and growth
Today at the Oxford Farming Conference, the Environment Secretary made a series of announcements to support farmers in England, with a focus on clarity, partnership and growth.
Law changes strengthen protection for livestock
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 received Royal Assent today, strengthening legal protections for farmers against livestock worrying.
Farming Profitability Review: recommendations published
The Farming Profitability Review 2025, an independent review led by Baroness Minette Batters, has been published.
Talking farming in 2026
Posted by:
Alice Brown, Posted on:
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Conversations we're having, Farming and Countryside Team
Over the past year, I’ve been out and about with my team talking to farmers and others across the farming sector — from agents and agronomists to academics and advisers. To help us plan for 2026, we welcome your suggestions on where we should visit.
An update on CSHT and our annual report
The Farming and Countryside Programme’s annual report is out, highlighting how funding has helped farmers, foresters, and land managers support nature, sustainable food, and innovation. In addition to this, guidance for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier applications is available, with the online service opening next week for invited applicants who have completed pre-application advice.
Join our user research panel
Good design starts with listening, which is why we are encouraging farmers in England to join Defra’s Farming and Countryside user research panel.
Related content and links
New: Nutrient Management Planning Tool
Agricultural property relief
From 6 April 2026, full inheritance tax relief will apply to the first £2.5 million of qualifying agricultural and business assets, with lower relief applying to any value above this. Learn more
Talk to us
4 May North Somerset Show at North Somerset Showground, Wraxall.
9 May Nottinghamshire Show at Newark Showground, Newark.
Consultations and surveys: have your say
Livestock disease guidance
Get advice
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
