Editor’s view: No longer possible to say ELM is a mystery
Farmers Weekly At last, more information on what Defra’s Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) will look like for farmers in England. This week’s announcement of six additional standards marks a major expansion in its scope. It includes three modules that have apparently been brought forward from 2024 as the department responds to criticism that the sloth-like […]
Tips to survive and thrive amid falling BPS payments
Farmers Weekly The UK agricultural sector is undergoing the biggest policy shake-up in 60 years, and government support for farmers is facing a radical overhaul. Defra has started its new Environmental Land Management (ELM) programme, which pays farmers in England public money to deliver environmental outcomes. Devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are […]
How growers can produce maize and protect environment
Farmers Weekly Maize is a crop often perceived to be damaging to the environment, causing issues such as soil compaction, erosion and nutrient losses, which can lead to run-off, affecting nearby watercourses. A “maize charter”, pioneered by the Maize Growers Association, is aiming to tackle concerns, by providing field evaluations to encourage best practice when […]
730 jobs under threat at Welsh poultry plant
Farmers Weekly Poultry processor 2 Sisters Food Group has announced plans to close its plant on Anglesey, putting 730 jobs at risk. A statement by the processor said the Llangefni site was old and required significant investment to bring it up to the standard of the company’s other sites. A recent company review suggested the […]
Scottish beef herd numbers in decline, survey reveals
Farmers Weekly Scotland’s beef sector looks set for further decline with high input costs and flat-lining prices to blame, a survey has revealed. NFU Scotland’s (NFUS) 2023 Intentions Survey was carried out in early January with support from Quality Meat Scotland. It sought to assess the damage to farm and crofting businesses caused by fuel, […]
Embrace innovation on your farm with funded tree planting
Farmers Weekly Trees and woodland can become a valuable farm asset New ideas are the lifeblood of successful farm businesses; they drive a competitive edge, help you stand out against your peers, and can cut costs too. Doing things differently can deliver a real dividend and if those new ideas also come with funding, support […]
Water company schemes to consider for your farming business
Farmers Weekly Industry leaders have welcomed Defra’s response to their calls for a more robust Sustainable Farming Incentive offering for 2023, which provides much-needed clarity for farmers planning their businesses. Six more standards have been introduced for this year, including payments for actions on hedgerows, grassland, arable and horticultural land, pest management and nutrient management. […]
Defra adds six new standards to SFI scheme for 2023
Farmers Weekly Industry leaders have welcomed Defra’s response to their calls for a more robust Sustainable Farming Incentive offering for 2023, which provides much-needed clarity for farmers planning their businesses. Six more standards have been introduced for this year, including payments for actions on hedgerows, grassland, arable and horticultural land, pest management and nutrient management. […]