How this option will benefit the environment
It establishes a grass buffer to help reduce the risk of potential pollutants, such as sediment, pesticides and nutrients (mainly phosphate), being transported to watercourses in surface water runoff. It may also provide habitat for wildlife, and form links between other habitats.
Aims
If you’re selected for a site visit, we will check that delivery of the aims is being met and the prohibited activities have not been carried out. This will ensure the environmental benefits are being delivered.
Throughout the year there will be a 12 to 24 metre (m) wide grass strip. Establish this during the first year and maintain for the period of the agreement. There will be an intact grass sward with no evidence of damage from vehicle or stock access routes.
A grass buffer strip may provide new habitat, protect existing landscape features, and improve water quality.
Next to existing features, it will provide habitat for wildlife, and form links or corridors between other habitats.
Next to a watercourse, it will also prevent pollutants, such as sediment and nutrients, from being transported in surface water runoff.
Aims
If you’re selected for a site visit, we will check that delivery of the aims is being met and the prohibited activities have not been carried out. This will ensure the environmental benefits are being delivered.
Throughout the year there will be a 4 to 6 metre (m) wide grass strip. Establish this during the first year and maintain for the period of the agreement. There will be an intact grass sward with no evidence of damage from vehicle or stock access routes.
Outlook 2021: Farm policy and funding Caroline Ingamells 16 December 2020 >More in
Farm support will dominate the agenda in 2021, with payments linked to environmental improvements.
Two government policies in particular will shape the future for farming – the Environment Bill and Part 2 of Defra’s National Food Strategy.
Lack of information on transition to new schemes is causing frustration
Environment Bill air and water quality measures will demand more of farming
Basic Payment Scheme
Since Anderson’s Outlook 2021 was written, Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) reduction rates for English claimants have been announced through to 2024. However, more information is needed on delinking of the BPS from land and lump sum payments, according to Andersons consultant Caroline Ingamells.