New research suggests the planned peatland grant scheme needs to ensure that farmers and land managers have the right level of funding and greater control than previous schemes in order to succeed.
Payment levels will need to increase substantially if the new scheme is to attract significant numbers of new entrants, and reflect the value of public goods we enjoy in society from well managed peatlands.
As Defra prepares to announce England’s largest ever peatland restoration scheme as part of its Nature for Climate Fund, new research commissioned by Natural England from Newcastle University suggests the planned grant scheme needs to ensure that farmers and land managers have the right level of funding and greater control than previous schemes in order to succeed. The new Nature for Climate Fund is expected to be a key part of Defra’s delivery of the England Peatland Strategy that is due to be launched later this year.
Professor Mark Reed, who led the research, said: “Payment levels will need to increase substantially if the new scheme is to attract significant numbers of new entrants, and reflect the value of public goods we enjoy in society from well managed peatlands. Overly prescriptive policies feel condescending at best and manipulative at worst. Therefore, policies need to target the competent majority, giving them flexibility to use their expertise to deliver outcomes that fit with local circumstances, and with training and support given to those who need it.”
While money is important, the research showed that land managers are also attracted to schemes for other personal and social reasons, for example if schemes enable them to collaborate with others, contribute to their local community or engage in activities that increase their sense of personal connection to the landscapes they manage.
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Posted On: 24/08/2020