2016 Applications (2017 Scheme Year Start) – There are quite a few applications to be approved yet, but most haven’t been rejected.  Natural England (NE) has been requesting additional information.  On one application for over a £100k capital grants, NE have asked the applicant to proceed with planning permission, indicating that they will approve subject to planning.  Very few applications are being rejected outright.  Where they are being approved it is with some amendments requested by NE.

It is frustrating for applicants who have not had approval yet, 4 months after the scheme is supposed to begin, both in terms of planning field management options and proceeding with capital works.

Can an intensive livestock farmer get on the scheme?  – Yes, a number of our applicants fall in this category.  Less productive field corners, low input permanent grassland (which cannot be ploughed), winter bird food (on arable land) are a couple of the favoured and least intrusive options.  They may be claiming only £2,000 pa for a 150ha farm but the options only apply to specific areas of the farm.

The bigger incentive is to be able to claim 100% capital grants in excess of £10k to improve your farm infrastructure, as farmers are now doing based on 2017 applications.

2017 Applications – Application window is open for 2018 Scheme from now until 30th September.    Application packs must be requested by 31st July so it is worth going ahead and requesting one from Natural England even if you are just considering entering the scheme at this point.  There is no obligation to submit an application, if you have requested an application pack.

Agreements run for five years and involve making environmental improvements, such as improving the environment for pollinators, farm wildlife and birds.  You can also apply for capital works within the agreement, for items such as concrete yard renewal and roofing over livestock gathering areas.  Some capital items and options require the support of a Catchment Sensitive Farming officer.  The agreements will run from 1st January 2018, and may be particularly relevant to those whose Entry Level Stewardship finishes in 2017.

Water Capital Grant Scheme – Using part of the Mid-Tier application form, you can apply for a 100%, maximum £10k water grant relating to roofing concrete where livestock stand, fencing watercourses, laying farm tracks etc.  You need to be in a priority area and also need the support of the local Catchment Officer for your application.  Same deadlines as above apply.

NE is very keen to get more applicants this year as their fund was well undersubscribed last year.  The next two years will be last opportunities to get EU funding.  With indications that future subsidies will be greener and having the incentive of 100% capital grants to stewardship applicants, I see it as an advantage to be ahead of the game and getting your farm fit for future subsidy regimes.  Payments on these schemes, though possibly small, will last for 5 years and you will see the benefits of the capital grants hopefully for the next 10-20 years.

For guidance on making a successful application, contact Sophie, at sophiecligg@fcgagric.com or your local FCG office, for more details.