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Watch: a test and trial update from Aqualate Mere

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: A view from the farm
A group of men discussing the Aqualate Mere

In this film, we return to Aqualate Mere in Staffordshire to learn more about the tests and trials experience of Aqualate Castle Holdings. Farmers in the catchment share what they learned about blending public and private finance for greater environmental good. They focused on commercial agreements between private organisations and local farmers.

Protecting hedgerows: share your views

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: environmental land management schemes, Payments to support hedgerows
Hedgerow with buffer strip

Hedgerows store carbon, support crop pollinators, create habitats for animals, slow water flow and create shade and fodder for animals. We want to protect the hedges we have, invest in their maintenance and support further planting.  We also want to make sure that hedgerow regulations work for wildlife, the environment and farmers. Today we launched a consultation on hedgerow protections in England and we want your views. 

SFI: more ways to enhance your income, productivity and the environment

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: environmental land management schemes, Sustainable Farming Incentive
Evening Light on fields and countryside in Bradninch, Devon

This year, the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) offer will be bigger and more flexible. We'll start accepting applications for the new offer in a controlled rollout from August. Learn how SFI can provide a steady income, help make your farm more productive and support you to produce food sustainably.

Productivity and Slurry grants: time to apply

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Payments for equipment, technology and infrastructure
Seed drilling in Horkstow

A few weeks ago, I blogged about the latest round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund. In my post, I gave an overview of the fund. I explained that it is made up of 2 themes. One theme is Productivity and Slurry. The other theme is Animal Health and Welfare. I’m pleased to say that you can now apply for a grant under the Productivity and Slurry theme.

New round of Farming Equipment and Technology Fund grants opening soon  

English rural landscape in with grazing Holstein Friesian cattle

The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund  is part of the Farming Investment Fund. It offers grants for specific items of equipment to increase productivity, boost environmental sustainability and improve animal health and welfare. Today, we published the full list of items available through the fund. In this post, I’ll explain what is available, when you can apply for a grant and provide links for you to find out more. 

The Annual Health and Welfare Review: rolling out yearly vet visits

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Guest post, Payments to improve animal health and welfare
Vet and farmer in conversation

At around this time last year, I wrote a post introducing the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway. I’m pleased to tell you that the first step on the Pathway, the SFI Annual Health and Welfare Review, is now ready to be rolled out. In this post, I'll explain how to register for a funded annual visit from your chosen vet or team of vets.

Large Research and Development Partnerships: further innovation funding available

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Payments for research and innovation
Montage of cows, hydroponics, sheep and vertical farming and cows

Later this month, the second round of the Large Research and Development Partnerships fund will open. From 20 February, agri-businesses, farmers, growers and foresters in England will be able to apply for a share of £8 million to improve productivity, sustainability and resilience. In this post, I’ll give an overview of the competition and details of events for you to find out more.