Expertise in Environmental Stewardship

All of our rural team have an excellent working knowledge of the new environmental schemes (collectively known as Environmental Stewardship) however Stuart Milsom has recently completed a particularly complex scheme in the top tier Higher Level Scheme.

Our client is the tenant of a 300 acre mixed arable and sheep farm which part of it is a SSSI with ‘Right to Roam’ access. In view of the restrictions placed on the land use by these designations, our client decided to make the most of the situation and enter wholly into the Higher Level Scheme where the more demanding management prescriptions are rewarded with higher payments.

Stuart’s involvement started with the initial discussions as to the principles of going down the environmental route, through preparing the application and negotiations with the RDS, onto the very practical aspects such as sourcing the specialist seed mixes required and writing a Teachers Information Pack for use on schools visits.

The final agreement, set to run for the next ten years includes the reversion of two arable fields to low input permanent pasture, protection of archeological monuments, grazing with native breeds typical of the region and providing educational access.

This farm demonstrates how these new schemes can be entered into as positive business decisions with a sound financial basis. It also demonstrates the need for careful planning and attention to detail throughout the process which is where a firm with expertise in both farming and environmental matters can prove invaluable.

If you are considering any of the Environmental Stewardship schemes or would like to know more about your options please contact Stuart on 01285 648107

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