Sustainable Farming Incentive - Changes announced by Defra
Defra has been reviewing the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) to ensure that the scheme is effective and not used too heavily across the farming industry, in a way that compromises the environment, food production and food security. Nevertheless, important features of SFI are the flexibility and freedom of choice in the options available.
Defra, however, is concerned about the amount of land being taken out of food production. With economic instability and challenging weather conditions, it is thought that this may become a greater issue in the future.
As a result, a limit is being imposed, whereby no more than 25% of a farm’s total land holding can be put in six of the nine options presented in the SFI.
The 6 limited options are:
Take improved grassland field corners or blocks out of management - IGL1 Winter bird food on improved grassland - IGL2 Pollen and nectar flower mix - AHL1 Winter bird food on arable and horticultural land - AHL2 Grassy field corners and blocks - AHL3 Flower-rich grass margins, blocks, or in-field strips – IPM2
With a cap on the above six options, at a total of 25% of the landholding, Defra believes this to be the right balance. Taking more land out of production is unlikely to benefit food production or the environment.
For advice on any rural property matters, contact Richard Greasby - Head of Butler Sherborn Rural - on 01285 883740 or richard@butlersherborn.co.uk
Rare Cotswold Home Opportunities
Four rare and compelling Cotswold home-project opportunities, each of which offers unique scope for restoration, development, and bespoke build.
Rare Cotswold Home Opportunities
Pub Of The Month - The Hollow Bottom: Iconic Horse Racing Pub Reopens
One of the Cotswolds’ most iconic racing pubs, The Hollow Bottom, has reopened!
Pub Of The Month - The Hollow Bottom: Iconic Horse Racing Pub Reopens
Butler Sherborn is delighted to sponsor the Members Marquee, Moreton Show - Saturday 6th September
Moreton Show is one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious one-day agricultural shows. It’s a celebration of British farming, rural traditions, and community spirit.
Butler Sherborn is delighted to sponsor the Members Marquee, Moreton Show - Saturday 6th September
Drought Tolerant Plants By Oxford Garden Designs
After the long, hot, dry spring and summer the impact of climate change in most of our gardens is obvious. Establishing that pristine, green stripy lawn has been a challenge this summer, and, given the shortage of water in our reservoirs, not sustainable. Many of our favourite garden plants have fried, shrivelled, or even died so it seems inevitable to me that us green-fingered folk will have to make some changes in our approach to maintaining gardens.
Drought Tolerant Plants By Oxford Garden Designs
