Interest in Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) single-focus agreements continues to grow, with 650 expressions of interest (EOIs) received since the offer opened at the end of July. This post covers the current areas of interest and how to submit an EOI.
Farmers affected by extreme dry weather can now benefit from temporary flexibilities in ELM agreements, £50 million increase in SFI funding, and a new round of the Water Management Grant, set to open in Autumn.
Almost three-quarters of land in England is now in drought after experiencing record-low rainfall and unusually high temperatures. As the dry weather looks set to persist, we've gathered information and resources to help farmers and growers.
This post updates farmers on SFI26 uptake in Window 1, when it may close, and applying on SSSI land. We also explain how eligible farmers with ELM agreements ending soon can apply in Window 2 before those agreements expire.
Single-focus agreements are designed to provide a simpler route into Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT). Since opening on July 21, over 300 expressions of interest have been received for these types of agreements. In this post, we provide a summary and a reminder of the Expression of Interest (EOI) process.
This post outlines our plans to expand CSHT to more farmers and land managers in England.
The first application window for the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 (SFI26) is now open.
From today, 2 new grants are available to farmers and land managers on lowland peat soils. One provides funding for water management infrastructure, while the other supports research into viable markets for paludiculture and traditional crops grown at higher water tables.
Farming Roadmap 2050: Growing England's Future sets out a clear vision for the future of farming in England. It brings together the government's long-term plans, priorities and commitments for the farming sector in a single place, providing greater clarity and direction for farmers and the wider industry.
Alongside the Farming Roadmap 2050: Growing England’s future, we’ve published our response to the Farming Profitability Review (FPR), an independent review led by farmer and former NFU President, Baroness Minette Batters.
Each month, we bring together the latest policy updates, funding opportunities, consultations, research and statistics, helping you stay informed about the issues that matter to you.
Meet the team in September
9–10 September Westmorland Show at Lane Farm, Crooklands, near Kendal, Cumbria.
12 September Romsey Show at Broadlands Estate, Romsey, Hampshire.
16 September UK Dairy Day at Telford International Centre, Telford, Shropshire.
19 September Isle of Wight Ploughing Match at Isle of Wight, Hampshire.
26 September Southwell Ploughing Match and Show at Southwell, Nottinghamshire.
Find a list of the other shows and events we’re attending in 2026
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.
Read the new guidance to understand what the changes could mean for your business and how to prepare.
From 6 April 2026, qualifying agricultural and business assets will continue to receive full inheritance tax relief up to a combined value of £2.5 million. Lower relief rates will apply to assets above this amount. Learn more
Innovate UK Business Connect invites you to join its new directory and connect with public sector buyers.
