In May details of the SFI (Sustainable Farming Incentive) 2024 expanded offer were published by DEFRA. This will open later in the summer, however, interested parties can submit an Expression of Interest survey, the RPA will then invite early applications in the form of a controlled rollout from late July.
The SFI 2024 expanded offer incorporates 102 Actions, many of which will be familiar to individuals who have previously been involved with Countryside Stewardship, as 57 actions are from this scheme, however, are for a duration of either 3 or 5 years and in certain circumstances the actions requirements have been amended.
There are also 23 new actions relating to agro-forestry, precision farming, stone walls and water bodies. The number of actions that are restricted to a limit of 25% of the holding has been increased to ten, it is understood that an additional four are under review.
An additional welcomed introduction is the removal of eligibility linked to historic BPS (Basic Payment Scheme) claims; new entrants are now eligible to submit an SFI application.
In relation to the new upcoming Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier, we anticipate details will be published this summer, with applications opening during winter. Higher Tier agreements will commence from January, adopting many of the flexibilities incorporated within SFI, from online application to monthly start dates.
Should you wish to discuss any aspect of SFI, anticipated Higher Tier in addition to any other schemes offered by DEFRA, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Cooper & Tanner Rural Department on 01373 831010.