Coffey: We’re listening and making ELMs work for upland farmers - Defra
Upland farmers will benefit from improved access to the government’s farming schemes.
Upland farmers from Exmoor to the Lake District will benefit from improved access to the government’s farming schemes, with increased payment rates and improved options under Countryside Stewardship.
Upland farmers play a vital role in keeping the nation fed while protecting the environment, and government is committed to making sure that their interests are protected and represented in the new faming schemes being delivered now that Britain has left the EU and is free from the bureaucratic Common Agricultural Policy.
The changes announced today by the Secretary of State for Food and Farming follow direct feedback from the sector, and will help to support them as sustainable food producers and custodians of England’s most-loved landscapes for years to come.
Following feedback from uplands farmers and industry representatives, the government is:
- Making payment rates in environmental land management schemes equal for both upland and lowland farms where they are carrying out the same actions. This means increased rates for upland farmers in four Countryside Stewardship options.
- Reviewing and amending a further seven Countryside Stewardship options make them more accessible to upland farmers.
- Improving engagement with upland farmers with focused advice and support to help them access schemes.
These changes will support the delivery of the government’s pledge to ensure there is something for every type of farmer in their new schemes, as direct land-based payments are phased out.
Today’s announcement follows significant work to make sure that upland farmers are at the centre of England’s farming policies.
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Posted On: 26/05/2023