Podcasts about sustainable farming incentive

In this episode, as senior civil servant Janet Hughes decides to leave Defra, we look at what it means for the Sustainable Farming Incentive.It's a revolving door at the AHDB, with the appointment of a new chair – and the announcement that chief executive Graham Wilkinson is moving on.Scottish livestock leaders say a climate committee report calling for less beef consumption is based on flawed evidence.Why a new deal between London and Brussels could make life easier on your farm.And Louise visits the Green Farm Collective – and discovers that bread made from regenerative wheat really does taste different.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, MPs say the government should delay plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers – and revise its controversial policy.Defra announces a partial reopening of the Sustainable Farming Incentive for growers and livestock producers in England.US agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins tells Farmers Weekly that poultry and pork are "on the table" to be next for a trade deal between the USA and the UK.And Hugh attends a Defra food strategy meeting.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

DEFRA says an "error was made" when closing the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applications earlier this year, and people who had applications in progress when it was shut, could now be allowed to submit them. The Sustainable Farming Incentive - or SFI - is part of the new system of farm payments in England, replacing the EU's Common Agricultural Policy. It pays people to do things like grow cover crops, plant flowers for pollinators, and manage hedgerows on their land. But in March this year, the Government announced, with no warning, that the SFI would be closed to new applications.We visit one farmer who could be affected by the change: dairy farmer, Sarah Godwin, had planned plant a mixture of grasses, enriched with legumes and other species - called a herbal ley - paid for by the SFI...but the scheme was abruptly closed in March before her application was complete. She says the farm had spent more than a thousand pounds on agents' fees to help with the forms.And testing top soils is often done to measure nutrients and organic matter - but recording what lies at a much lower depth could be key to enhancing soil health, and help achieve agriculture's net zero targets. We visit CAFRE, Northern Ireland's College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, where a major, deep soil carbon-coring project has been underway.Presented by Anna Hill Produced by Heather Simons

In this episode we look at the future of the Sustainable Farming Incentive agri-environment scheme. Natural England head of agriculture Peter Craven tells us the scheme will return – and be better for farming and the environment, albeit with a likely smaller budget.We assess the impact of the UK-US trade deal on the beef and arable sectors – and ask whether it is the shape of things to come?MPs debate the future for Britain's small abattoirs – which are often a lifeline for smaller livestock producers serving higher-value niche markets.And, as the silage season hots up, we talk to safety campaigner Jane Gurney about the latest trailer advice on the road and in the field.A wealth of safety advice and daily checks can be downloaded from the Tilly Pass website. Please download the Head to Tow app mentioned in this episode.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

To coincide with the release of our new report, Grazing Livestock: It's not the cow but the how, the latest guest on the SFT Podcast this month is Nic Renison. Nic is a regenerative farmer based in Cumbria where she farms alongside her husband, Paul (Reno), at Cannerheugh Farm. The daughter of dairy farmers, Nic grew up within the conventional, high production agricultural environment, growing food with little thought of the environment. This all changed in 2012 when Nic and Reno had a 'light bulb' moment after visiting an organic farm in Northumberland, which inspired them to start employing more regenerative farming methods. In 2018, alongside Liz Genever, Nic co-founded Carbon Calling – a conference created for farmers, by farmers, to share ideas and exchange knowledge on all things farming and regenerative agriculture. During the episode Nic and Patrick discuss Nic's early farming influences, her and her husband's journey from conventional to regenerative farming methods and the origins of the Carbon Calling conference, and how it supports the wider farming community. To find out more about Nic and Cannerheugh Farm, follow their journey on Instagram and visit their website here. To listen to more SFT podcasts, featuring some of the biggest names in regenerative food and farming, head to our main podcast page. And to keep up to date with our news, you can subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter or follow us on Instagram, X or Facebook.

Gene-editing technology which makes pigs immune to a highly infectious virus, developed at Edinburgh University's Roslin Institute, has been approved for use by the US Food and Drug Administration. The virus causes a disease called PRRS or Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, which causes premature births in pigs as well as other painful symptoms and costs the pig industry billions. Current legislation doesn't permit its use in the UK. We speak to one of the scientists who's been working on the project for more than seven years.All week we've been taking a closer look at pulses, the dried seeds of crops like beans, lentils and peas, for both human and animal food. In the UK the peas we eat are generally frozen or fresh but dried peas are a major source of protein to millions of people around the world. Scientists at the John Innes Centre in Norwich have been working with researchers in China, the USA and France to uncover the genome of 700 different varieties of pea, from many different countries, to help develop better commercial varieties.The sudden suspension of England's biggest environmental scheme, the Sustainable Farming Incentive, earlier this year was met with horror and disbelief by farmers and environmentalists alike - we preview a special documentary which charts the transition of agricultural policy from the old EU farm subsidy system and the Common Agricultural Policy to the new 'public money for public goods' approach that we have in England today. Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

In this episode, we get to grips government grants to fund on-farm innovation and technology to improve productivity.With British Beef Week around the corner (23-30 April), we run the rule over the NFU's 10-year vision for the UK's beef industry.We look at why farm hedges could be the latest victim of the government's decision to close the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applications.And we find out why singing sweary farmers are all the rage in Oxfordshire.

In this episode, livestock industry leaders warn of a devastating animal disease outbreak unless the government tightens border controls.MPs quiz. Defra minister Daniel Zeichner as cereal growers 'go on strike' in protest at government policies affecting UK farming.Will there really be no hot cross buns at Easter?We've the latest on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and how the Rural Payments Agency continues to process a backlog of applications.And one year after he took up the role, we've a special interview with Graham Wilkinson, chief executive of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.Plus all the latest commodity prices – and how Donald Trump's tariffs will affect UK agri-food products imported into the USA.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

This week we're taking a closer look at the rural lives of islanders around our shores. A survey by the Young Islanders Network found the biggest concern for young people in Scotland's islands, is housing – or a lack of it. We speak to people about some of the problems they've faced - and some of the solutions.The Environment Food and Rural Affairs select Committee of MPs has been grilling the farming minister Daniel Zeichner about the repercussions of suspending the Sustainable Farming Incentive, or SFI, which gives payments to farmers for environmental work. Thousands of farmers have already joined, but it was abruptly closed to new applicants on 11th March. Trees are being planted on Dartmoor to help alleviate flooding. A team lead by the National Park Authority is using a method developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki which plants a wide variety of native species close together to encourage rapid tree growth.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

This week we're in Leicestershire exploring the beautiful Welland Valley with countryside writer and farming expert Tim Relf. Plodcast host Fergus walks through this stunning, overlooked landscape with Tim and they discuss farming issues such as the controversial proposed changes to inheritance tax and the Sustainable Farming Incentive. To learn more about the Neville family, as mentioned by Tim, listen to The Plodcast Ep. 277 with Annie Garthwaite. UK Plodcast listeners can take adventage of a special subscription to BBC Countryfile Magazine where you can receive you first 3 issues for just £6. Head to www.ourmediashop.com/plodcast25 The BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast is the Publishers Podcast Awards Special Interest Podcast of the Year 2024 and the PPA Podcast of the Year 2022. If you've enjoyed the plodcast, don't forget to leave likes and positive reviews. Contact the Plodcast team and send your sound recordings of the countryside to: theplodcast@countryfile.com. If your letter, email or message is read out on the show, you could WIN a Plodcast Postbag prize of a wildlife- or countryside-themed book chosen by the team. The Plodcast is produced by Jack Bateman and Lewis Dobbs. The theme tune was written and performed by Blair Dunlop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The morning after the government announced the end of its Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme, Neil visited Cumbrian organic dairy farmer JAMES ROBINSON whose passion is nature friendly farming. His 300-acre Strickley Farm has been in the family since 1875, and it's been free from artificial fertilisers or pesticides for the last twenty years. In this episode he walks Neil around the farm to explain how his style of farming has evolved in this special landscape. Listen and you'll hear: the history and layout of Strickley Farm (0m55s); James and Neil wade in the beck that runs through the farm (5m20s); James explains why he ‘re-wiggled' this watercourse (8m37); hear how and why James created wetland areas on the farm (11m08); his role with the Nature Friendly Farming Network (14m50s); his journey of going organic (15m51); responding to the government's decision to end its sustainable farming scheme (17m40s); the turning point in his approach to farming (20m55); his pond (24m30); meeting his shorthorn cattle (27m07).This conversation was recorded on 13 March 2025.Follow James on Instagram hereVisit his website here: strickleydairy.co.ukLearn about the Nature Friendly Farming Network: nffn.org.ukThis podcast is produced by jakelloyd.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, farmers ramp up food production following the closure of the government's flagship environmental scheme.Arable growers who were preparing Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) applications are now drilling spring crops instead – with strong demand for spring seed and fertiliser.Natural England former head of agriculture Geoff Sansome says mistakes were made when drawing up the SFI – but the scheme should be refined rather than redesigned.Why Chancellor Rachel Reeves must avoid targeting red diesel when she unveils the government's Spring Statement.And how big food companies are investing in agriculture – and incentivising farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

The Farming Minister has told Farming Today that it's the success of England's biggest environmental scheme which has led to its closure. As we've reported this week, there has been a furious reaction to the Government's decision to close the SFI to new applicants. The government says it plans to 'reset' the scheme before re-opening it. The Sustainable Farming Incentive paid farmers for environmental work - farming and environmental organisations have criticised its closure, saying it will put financial strain on farming businesses and have a detrimental impact on the environment. Minister Daniel Ziechner says more farmers than in previous years have applied for SFI and so the budget has been spent.Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

Just why did the government close its flagship agri-environment scheme without warning?We examine the options for farmers unable to join Defra's Sustainable Farming Incentive.A new study says the government must take food security and sustainable farming much more seriously.Published by the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission, the report is called Paying the Price: Cheap food, big business and the cost to farming and food security.And we ask: Is there really a future for lab grown meat?This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Today we look at the Government's decision to close the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applicants with immediate effect. The SFI is a major part of the post-Brexit system of farm payments in England. The devolved governments in the other nations of the UK are developing their own schemes and in the meantime retain direct payments to farmers. In England those basic payments are being phased out and replaced by environmental payments. The Sustainable Farming Incentive is one of the new schemes. It offered a range of options like improving soils, planting hedges or providing habitat for wildlife, for which farmers are paid. Defra says the budget has been 'successfully allocated' and so no new applications will now be accepted. Details on a new SFI will be announced in the summer but applications may not re-open until next year. Tom Bradshaw, President of the National Farmers Union, says the news is a "shattering blow".Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

In this emergency episode, we examine the implications of Defra's decision to stop accepting applications for its flagship agri-environment scheme.The shock announcement to draw a line under the Sustainable Farming Incentive was announced at 6pm Tuesday, 11 March.Defra gave farmers no notice of the decision, which came into effect with immediate effect, leaving would-be applicants high and dry.We look at the reasons for the announcement – and where it leaves farmers and farm businesses across England.With thanks to special guests:Martin Lines, chairman of the Nature Friendly Farming NetworkJamie Burrows, chairman of the NFU combinable crops boardEd Hutley, partner with farm business consultants Ceres RuralThis episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode we're talking about the ‘R' word, which still raises eyebrows in some circles – ‘rewilding' – alongside the concept of ‘circular farming' and we'll ask how they both fit with the sustainable farming incentive? How could you rewild parts of your farm, what does rewilding really mean today and how can the sustainable farming incentive help you to improve nature value on your farm, alongside your bank balance?Host Peter Green is joined by Jim Bliss who runs a consultancy called ‘Blissfully Wild', and worked at the Lowther Estate in Cumbria for a number of years. He's also a 2023 Nuffield scholar and he did his research on the links between rewilding and marginal farming.  Hugo Ellis is also on the panel. Hugo is a regenerative agronomist with regenerative consultancy group Terrafarmer. After studying at Duchy College and working in the dairy industry, Hugo worked as a trials manager for six years across a broad range of crops. He has also lectured in Agronomy and Crop Science and worked as an Assistant Manager on an estate in London.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:14 Peter introduces the episode.01:41 Jim introduces himself.02:47 Hugo introduces himself. 04:06 Jim talks about his own journey with rewilding. 06:30 Rewilding at Lowther Estate. 07:48 The power of network and connections. 08:30 Definitions of rewilding and circular farming.11:10 Is rewilding 'active' or 'passive'14:08 Diversification through the environment14:35 The principles of circular farming.17:00 Partnerships and joint ventures as part of a circular economy. 19:47 The transition - are there issues with transitioning from conventional to another model of farming or managing the land?21:25 Jim's thoughts on the SFI.25:00 Tapestry/ patchwork of different elements of habitats. 26:20 Market access to habitat creation. The importance and opportunity of an environmental story. 27:34 Cornish Mutual is running SFI workshops. 27:55 Advice for accessing SFI 30:23 Summing up - how does each guest see the future of land management in the UK evolving and will we see more rewilding on farms in future?33:46 Showstoppers.36:06 Peter rounds up the episode.  

In this episode, we visit the AgriTechE REAP conference – the annual showcase for the latest innovations in agriculture.We find out how simple innovations can make farming more profitable – enabling farmers to work smarter rather than harder.From completing Sustainable Farming Incentive applications at the push of a button to using semen analysis to breed better livestock.We talk to start-up agri-tech entrepreneurs and some of the biggest global names in farming who are embracing big ideas to boost productivity.We get together with the Silicon Valley expert who explains how artificial intelligence is available now – and how farmers can get involved.And we meet the co-founder of a fledgling business on a quest to brew the perfect cup of coffee from UK-grown ingredients.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann TaskerTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also message us by texting the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Today we are going to be talking with wildlife expert Marek Nowakowski, Agrii's technical manager of non-combinable trials Don Pendegrast and seed technical manager John Miles. This episode will be focusing on IPM and the continuing discussion around the use of pesticides, as well as the encouragement of developing wildlife habitats as part of the Sustainable Farming Incentive. What is the value of IPM in combinable crops, what can be learnt from practices going on in other crops and what current practices should growers continue?Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening to this podcast. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode and DOB. Tony Smith is your host on Tramlines. Based in the South West and with a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) Agriculture. He worked in the farming industry for many years before developing his career as a presenter.

In this episode, as the government's Budget looms we ask three experts what farmers should expect in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement.We find out why the Sustainable Farming Incentive is fuelling interest in hedgerow management in England – and how farmers can obtain payments.We visit the Lake District, where upland farmers fear they are being left behind by the government's flagship environmental schemes.And we go under the North Sea where a carbon-friendly fertiliser is being mined to replenish sulphur levels on UK farms.Thank you for listening to the Farmers Weekly Podcast. This episode is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Louise Impey.To contact us, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also message us by texting the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

All week we're looking at planning and the countryside. The government has announced plans for "brownfield passports", to fast track house building on brownfield sites. The countryside charity, CPRE, has welcomed the proposals to make brownfield sites the first choice for building new homes. It says we could build most of the homes we need on such sites and says this could be in rural areas, as well as urban ones. Green belt land was originally designed to protect the countryside from urban sprawl but some parts of it have been developed, and they are now considered ‘grey belt' land. There's a general acceptance that some of this land will have to be built on - providing space for some of the new 1.5 million homes the government's pledged to build over the next parliament. We look at two council areas - one where thousands of new homes have been built in the countryside, another which is creating 1000s of hectares of new green belt. 2024 is the year when payments to farmers in England, from the old EU Basic Payment Scheme, or BPS, really start to go down. They will be phased out completely by 2027. For instance, a farmer who used to receive £50,000 under the pre-Brexit scheme, will this year receive £26,000. Instead farmers can now sign up to a new agri-environment scheme: the Sustainable Farming Incentive, or SFI. It has more than a hundred actions for which farmers are paid. They're designed to improve nature habitats, lessen flooding, improve soil health and provide cleaner water courses, and more. We visit a field event which helps farmers navigate their way through the new schemes. Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Welcome to the tenth episode of The RPA Podcast. In our latest episode, we have a roundtable discussion with RPA's senior customer leadership team: ‘Inside the RPA: Leadership and Vision'.  And in our second part, we bring you an interview with the Farming Advice Service (FAS) to give you more information on their new partnership with Catchment Sensitive Farming.RPA senior leaders Marie Hardeman, RPA's Customer Director, Emily Edwards, Head of Customer Insight and Gareth Jones, Head of Customer Experience engage in a discussion about how they're working to improve customer service and how listening to, and understanding customers, are the pillars for improving the customer journey and satisfaction.  In our second section, we speak with Laura Harpham from the Farming Advice Service (FAS) about their services and their new partnership with Catchment Sensitive Farming. The FAS is a national network of qualified, independent advisers under contract to Defra who provide free and confidential government advice to farmers and farming industry advisers. The Podcast is also an opportunity for RPA to engage with farmers and land managers, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.ukFollow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts:Follow us on X @ruralpaySign up for our blog at blog.gov.ukFacebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgencyYouTube: Rural Payments AgencyBy following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information. The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

The Government plans to cut the budget for nature friendly farming in England by £100m, according to a report in the Guardian. It claims that civil service sources say the cut is needed to help fill a £22 billion treasury shortfall. The reduced spending could affect the new Sustainable Farming Incentive which replaces the old EU system, paying farmers for environmental benefits produced on their land. Nature and farming groups have reacted with consternation. We ask how significant would a cut of £100m be.All this week we are looking at how land use is changing, as public and private investment is brought in to fund environmental schemes. With increasing green finance opportunities, more and more companies are stepping in to broker deals between farmers and investors. Natergall's business model is to deliver ecological restoration on its own land and that of others, and to commercialise the results.Rural areas across England are in danger of becoming 'pharmacy deserts', as medicine providers across the country continue to consolidate and close smaller branches. That's according to the National Pharmacy Association, which has published a study showing that over the last two years, nearly nine in ten council areas in England have lost pharmacies. It found that rural areas often rely on fewer providers, so are harder hit by closures.A new report has revealed that part of the seabed off Devon which had been trashed by years of trawling and dredging is being revitalised. Research by the University of Plymouth shows that within just 10 years the former shellfish reef has been transformed.Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

The Government plans to cut the budget for nature friendly farming in England by £100m, according to a report in the Guardian. It claims that civil service sources say the cut is needed to help fill a £22 billion treasury shortfall. The reduced spending could affect the new Sustainable Farming Incentive which replaces the old EU system, paying farmers for environmental benefits produced on their land. Nature and farming groups have reacted with consternation. We ask how significant would a cut of £100m be.All this week we are looking at how land use is changing, as public and private investment is brought in to fund environmental schemes.  With increasing green finance opportunities, more and more companies are stepping in to broker deals between farmers and investors. Natergall's business model is to deliver ecological restoration on its own land and that of others, and to commercialise the results.It's that time of the year when tractors are out along countryside roads, cutting back the hedges. Hedge specialists are calling for farmers to cut their hedges less frequently to benefit wildlife.Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

In this episode, we get to grips with the latest Sustainable Farming Incentive – and what it means for your farm business.Scottish growers face heavy losses after virus-hit potato crops are destroyed in an effort to protect high-health status seed production.Could more winter linseed be grown as an alternative break crop?We've a harvest update and all the latest market prices.And we review a sumptious history of Aberdeen Angus cattle – the world's most popular pedigree beef breed.This episode is co-hosted by Johann Tasker andSandy Kirkpatrick, with additional reporting by Philip Case and Adam Clarke.To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0. 

Today we are going to be talking with Alex Olivant, farm and environmental advisor with Agrii and Dan Wood, RHIZA crop input specialist. This episode will explore what the latest updates to the combined Sustainable Farming Incentive and Countryside Stewardship offering could mean for growers, and how precision and digital farming tools can support applications.To find out how SFI can work for your business, speak to your local environmental advisor or RHIZA crop input specialist. You can find their contact details on the Agrii website.Claim 1 BASIS and NRoSO point for listening to this podcast. Email info@agrii.co.uk with your membership number, full name, postcode and DOB. Tony Smith is your host on Tramlines. Based in the South West and with a farming background, he graduated with a B.Sc (Hons) Agriculture. He worked in the farming industry for many years before developing his career as a presenter.

In this episode, we look at what the forthcoming General Election might mean for UK farmers – who is promising what and to whom.After Defra unveils its latest offer for the Sustainable Farming Incentive, we get the lowdown on the implications for your farm business.Glyphosate or ploughing – what is best for soil health? We find out at the Green Farm Collective Open Day.How the Wildfarmed flour brand is being stocked by more retailers – and why farmers are enjoying growing their wheat.We've our regular market roundup and the latest commodity prices.And we reflect on 10 years of the Yellow Wellies farm safety campaign – with the Farm Safety Foundation.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and  Louise Impey with additional reporting by Phil Clarke.You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

New border checks for imports of food and plants coming into the UK from the EU, start 30th April 2024. Some farming groups have been calling for these checks for some time - saying they will give producers here more of a level playing field with EU producers, because UK exports have had similar checks since Brexit. But some importers say inspection costs are prohibitive.We hear from the conference to celebrate the World Organisation for Animal Health's 100th anniversary, where avian flu is on the agenda.And, we're getting to the time of year where young plants in the field are susceptible to pest damage. Rather than rely on chemicals to fight them off, under the Sustainable Farming Incentive, which is part of England's new farm payment system replacing EU subsidies, farmers can be paid for using "Integrated Pest Management". We visit a farm to hear how it works.Presented by Anna Hill Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

In this episode, we dicuss what viewers can expect from the new series of the hit TV show Clarkson's Farm.With fuel prices set to rise, we examine the prospects for red diesel.Herbal leys – are they really the simple option for livestock producers wanting easy money from the Sustainable Farming Incentive?How space food from a vertical farm in orbit could benefit farmers back on Earth.And we pull on our sports gear and go for a jog with the farming charity runners taking part in this year's London Marathon*.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Sandy Kirkpatrick with additional reporting by Michael Priestley, Charlie Reeve and Matilda Bovingdon. You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.* If you would like to make a donation, London Marathon runners and their chosen charities include:Edd Mowbray, ABC Communications, Headway, the brain injury associationPhilip Case, Farmers Weekly, Farming Community NetworkEmma Crosby, Jen Cox and Lizzy Milne, NFU, Farm AfricaFlora Archer, NFU, East Anglian Air Ambulance

In today's podcast, we discuss the opening of the claim window for existing Countryside Stewardship revenue and Environmental Stewardship agreements, delinked payments, RPA's shows and events schedule and the new round of Farming Equipment and Technology Fund Grants. We also have an interview with Marie Hardeman, RPA's Customer Director, who talks about her year into the role and improvements in Customer Services. Item 1:Gregg Bulman a Countryside Stewardship Processing manager, runs us through Opening of the claim window for existing Countryside Stewardship revenue and Environmental Stewardship agreements and delinked payments·  The claim window for existing Countryside Stewardship (CS) revenue and Environmental Stewardship (ES) agreements has opened on 14 March 2024. All farmers must submit a claim or annual declaration for CS and ES before 15 May to receive payment for works carried out through the schemes in 2024 without a reduction. The final deadline for submitting a claim with reduction is 2 September. In 2023 the RPA supplemented the existing online claim process for CS with a more straightforward annual declaration option in cases where no changes are required. This will still be available in the Rural Payments service for 2024, with farmers able to generate and submit an automated revenue claim without needing to complete each section of the claim form. Item 2: In our second section, we speak with Katie Yon from RPA's shows and events team, about the range of shows and events the team will be visiting this year and what visitors to the RPA stand can expect.Please come and visit RPA at Agricultural Shows across the country.Item 3:In our third section, we speak to Caitlin Smith from RPA's Grants Service team, who  talks to us about the new round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund.Grants for productivity and slurry management items are available now. The deadline to apply is midday 17 April 2024. Farmers, foresters, growers and contractors to those sectors can apply. You can apply for one grant from each of the 3 themes. The fund is competitive. Successful applicants will receive a grant of: a minimum of £1,000 and a maximum of £50,000 towards productivity itemsa minimum of £1,000 and a maximum of £50,000 towards slurry itemsa minimum of £1,000 and a maximum of £25,000 towards animal health and welfare itemsWe will pay a percentage of the cost depending on the item. For many items, this percentage is an increase on last year. This funding will go towards either: the average cost of the item – if an item costs you the same or more than the expected average cost in the item listthe actual cost you pay for the item – if an item costs you less than the expected average cost in the item listRead The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

In this episode, farmers drive dozens of tractors through central London and call for a better deal from the Westminster government.Why won't Defra do more to keep illegal meat imports out of the country?We've more on the government's decision to limit the amount of land entered into its Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme.And #AreEWEok? We speak to the Scottish young farmers highlighting the importance of mental wellbeing at lambing time.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Scottish farmer Sandy Kirkpatrick.Additional reporting by Farmers Weekly chief reporter Phil Case and Pig World editor Alistair Driver.You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

The Government is placing a 25% cap on the amount of land farmers can take out of food production, and put aside for certain environmental schemes. Farmers can be paid for environmental actions - like growing seed for wild birds - as part of the Sustainable Farming Incentive, or SFI, which is replacing the old EU farm subsidies in England. Now, new applicants who choose a selection out of 6 of the schemes, will only be able to put a total of 25% of their land into them. The new cap comes after some raised concerns around our food security - winter flooding and the high cost of fertiliser has made growing food more expensive....and after the Government increased payments for environmental schemes in January, more farmers took them up.Centuries ago, leather production would have gone hand in hand with animal husbandry in the UK, but now animal hides are very low value - and seen by many as a waste product. There are just a handful of tanneries left in the UK for processing hides into leather. We meet a farmer whose starting the fight back.And wildlife experts say recent river flooding could be putting otters at risk. Strong currents can wash away cubs and high water levels can flood their river bank homes, or holts. Presented by Anna Hill Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

Our UK farming correspondent updates us on the latest farmer protests at Westminster, the logic (or otherwise) of the "Sustainable Farming Incentive" and why he's such a big supporter of the Royal Family.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this emergency podcast, we get to grips with Defra's announcement placing restrictions on land going into the Sustainable Farming Incentive.Under the changes, SFI applicants will only be able to put 25% of their land into six SFI actions that take land out of direct food production.The announcement was made by Defra on Monday 25 March 2024 – and applies to new applications to the flagship agri-environment scheme.Joining podcast host Johann Tasker to make sense of the Defra announcement and what the restrictions mean for farmers are:Farmers Weekly arable correspondent Louise ImpeyAgronomist Andrew Wells of the Arable Alliance and Association of Independent Crop ConsultantsFarm business consultant and independent agronomist George Catchpole of Ceres RuralThe full Defra announcement can be seen here.Do catch up with our regular Farmers Weekly Podcast every Friday with Johann Tasker and Scottish farmer Sandy Kirkpatrick,To contact Johann and Sandy, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

The return of the Northern Ireland Assembly means there's a new man in charge at the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, or DAERA. We speak to Andrew Muir about his priorities.After leaving the EU, the four nations of the UK have decided on different payment systems for farmers. In England the Environmental Land Management Scheme, or ELMS, has several parts to it. The Sustainable Farming Incentive or SFI is part of that. It pays farmers for doing environmental work, like planting hedges or improving soils. Some English farmers felt there was little ‘incentive' to join it, because payments were too low. However in January that changed. 50 new things farmers could do to attract money were added to the scheme and some payments were increased. We discuss what those were with the Farming Minister Mark Spencer.All week we've been looking at the business side of running a farm. Farmers have long argued that they deal with far too much paperwork. One company set up to help them with form filling says it's been inundated with requests and believes many farmers feel burdened and isolated by the sheer amount of red tape. Diversification is often key to a successful farm business. According to DEFRA, 69% of farm businesses were engaged in some kind of diversification in 2022-23. We visit a small upland farm in the Lake District to find out how diversification has worked for them.In the Scottish Highlands vast tracts of land and whole estates are being bought as ‘green investments'. Tree planting and rewilding are used to offset carbon. A report for the Scottish Government has tried to quantify the impact of this on rural communities. Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

As more farmers take up payments to farm in a more environmentally-friendly way, will that mean growing less food? After leaving the EU, the four nations of the UK have decided on different payment systems for farmers. In England, the Environmental Land Management Scheme, or ELMS, has several parts to it - the simplest being the Sustainable Farming Incentive or SFI. Some farmers said there was little incentive to sign up, because payments to do environmental work were too low. However, in January that changed and some payments were increased. We unpick the details of the scheme and find out who the winners and losers are. We also talk to the Defra farming minister, Mark Spencer.Some farmers in Northern Ireland fear a new scheme designed to reduce emissions from livestock will put slower-growing breeds of cattle at a disadvantage. They are concerned it will make rearing grass-fed or native breed cattle less viable.Presenter: Anna Hill Producer: Rebecca Rooney

In this episode, the government unveils a big expansion of its Sustainable Farming Incentive for England – including a 10% payment hike.But is the new scheme compatible with food production?As cross-compliance is abolished and delinked payments are introduced for English farmers, who are the winners and losers?The Oxford Farming Conference theme is the Power of Diversity – in all its forms. What does that mean for farmers?We introduce the latest Farmers Weekly campaign. Called Level the Field, it seeks to secure an equitable future for women in agriculture.And the Oxford Real Farming Conference hosts the film premiere of Six Inches of Soil – a feature-length documentary about regenerative agriculture.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hsoted by Johann Tasker and Scottish farmer Sandy Kirkpatrick.Additional reporting by Phil Clarke, Phil Case and Abi Kay.You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Welcome to the seventh episode of The RPA Podcast.In our latest episode, we dive into some of the questions and feedback we've received at the RPA from those applying to the 2023 offer of the Sustainable Farming Incentive. After opening to applications in August, we received a number of technical and general questions, both from farmers in the process of applying and those considering doing so. Speaking to our expert in the RPA Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) Delivery team, Stephen Veasey, we get the answers to the most frequently asked questions RPA has received. Stephen will be discussing the benefits of applying, looking into how the scheme has been created to allow all farmers to tailor to the needs of their land and actions that can be taken before applying, to streamline the application process. We will also discuss the number of accepted applications and offers in the pipeline. This figure was correct at time of recording but will increase over the coming weeks.  The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

How do energy companies decide where to put renewables? After a Yorkshire couple, successfully challenged plans to build a solar installation on their tenant farm, we speak to the company that wanted to create a solar farm there, and find out how they select land for renewable projects. Conservationists say the government's new agri-environment scheme, the Sustainable Farming Incentive, doesn't reward farmers adequately for the human, social and cultural value of the land they manage. Friends of the Lake District has published research to establish the ‘true' value of an upland common. We visit Little Asby Common in the Westmorland Dales to see why the charity thinks the 450 hectare site has a potential value of £61 million. All week we're celebrating autumn fruits. It's been a good year for grapes, with vineyards enjoying a bumper harvest. One producer in Shropshire has enlisted a small army of volunteers to help pick the crop. Presenter: Caz Graham Producer: Jon Wiltshire

Nearly 4,000 farmers who farm common land in England face delays to being able to apply for - and therefore receive payments from - the Sustainable Farming Incentive, the most basic element of the Environmental Land Management Scheme which is to replace the EU's Common Agricultural Policy. A farm worker in Wiltshire shares his recent experience of what happened when he confronted hare coursers. And why there's growing interest in using flax for sustainable fashion. Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Rhiannon Fitz-Gerald.

In this episode, the Environment Agency is under fire after accusing farmers of breaching rules to protect water quality.Defra blames technical issues as it delays the opening of its flagship Sustainable Farming Incentive to applications.On the markets, we've all the regular commodity prices.We talk to the MP who says it should be easier for online shoppers to buy British food and drink, which he argues should be more clearly labelled.And we go for a ride with the eight-year-old farmers' son who spent his summer holiday riding his bike 100 miles to raise money for charity.Listeners can donate to young farmer William Pearson's Peddling for Pounds charity bike ride, by visiting JustGiving.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Farmers Weekly deputy editor Abi Kay, with additional reporting by Phi Case.You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0 .

Welcome to the sixth episode of The RPA Podcast.In our latest episode, Ali Johnson, RPA's Engagement and Operational Readiness Director, discusses the 2023 Sustainable Farming Incentive and highlights the greater flexibility available  in SFI23. We also discuss the roll out date, application process and transition from other schemes.Later in the episode, Anne-Marie Rafter, from RPA's Geospatial Services, talks us through how to update land details and why it is essential to do so as soon as possible, to ensure there are no delays to receiving agri-environmental grants. We also discuss how the process of updating land data has been simplified and how it will soon be possible to amend land details online. Finally, we hear from Helen, from New Hall Farm in South Yorkshire, about her educational farm visits and their benefits, along with how her recommendations helped to improve the Farm Visit Declaration Form, which is completed by agreement holders before and during each visit.The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts.Follow us on Twitter @ruralpaySign up for our blog at blog.gov.ukFacebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgencyYouTube: Rural Payments AgencyBy following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information. The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

Today on the show, we're putting our focus on the new policy landscape across England and asking to what extent can the sustainable farming incentive, and other schemes make your farm business more resilient, economically and environmentally, over the next few years?Peter is joined by Sabine McEwen who is Farm Environment Advisor and Devon Team Leader for FWAG South West. FWAG provides independent advice to farmers and landowners across the region. Also with him are Dorset sheep farmers David and Carolyn Gill from Upping Down Shetlands, to get their perspective on how the new schemes can help their business. =Throughout this series we are focusing on the topic of resilience. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle. 00:06 Intro music.00:15 Peter Green introduces the episode.01:27 Sabine's first farming memory.02:03 David's first farming memory.02:45 Carolyn's first farming memory.03:22 David and Carolyn are first generation farmers - how did they get into it? Carolyn explains.04:45 Cornish Mutual jingle04:56 What does resilience mean to David and Carolyn?05:25 Resilience for Sabine.06:12 Foresight and the long term nature of farming. 06:32 The Future Farm Resilience Programme.08:30 What role have environmental schemes played for David and Carolyn?10:56 Cornish Mutual jingle11:47 Sabine explains the new schemes including Sustainable Farming Incentive.15:17 Is there more hassle with these new schemes? Is this a common attitude?17:23 Assessing success.17:58 Cornish Mutual jingle18:13 The difference between SFI and Countryside Stewardship. 21:00 How does the new system compare for David and Carolyn (SFI Pilot).21:50 Farm size.22:30 How has the feedback process been for David and Carolyn with Defra?24:10 The claim process for David and Carolyn.24:48 Experience of FWAG team on SFI and Countryside stewardship changes.26:12 Rolling application window.27:50 What advice would Sabine give to anyone listening who is sceptical about the new system?30:30 The new schemes have the potential to make farmers more resilient if they are used part of a bigger system.32:32 Carolyn explains how SFI encourages you to collect data.33:14 David talks about baselining.34:55 Peter rounds up with the cream tea question.36:18 Peter rounds up with the '3 showstoppers' - SFI can support good practice; don't put your head in the sand; use your network; don't let the tail wag the dog with your business; collect data 

Today on the Farming programme we find out about what farmers need to do to benefit from the Sustainable Farming Incentive, we hear about manure treatment and also the Great Yorkshire show. Plus there's the market reports, agronomy and the weather for the week ahead.

Today we hear about beekeeping in Lincolnshire plus reaction to the Sustainable Farming Incentive from the Country, Land and Business Association. Plus the market reports, agronomy and the weather for the week ahead

In this episode, we look at the latest offering of government support for English farmers – the long-awaited 2023 Sustainable Farming Incentive.What does it mean for your farm? And what happens to the thousands of farmers who signed up for the 2022 scheme, which is now being scrapped? We head to the Royal Highland Show as a government leak reveals the possible future of Scottish farm policy – and Hollywood actor pays a special visit. We look at all the latest commodity prices – and examine the impact of the cost of living crisis on consumer spending for meat and dairy.  Seven years after the EU referendum, how do you feel about Brexit? We look at the results of an exclusive Farmers Weekly survey. And how many tractors does it take to make Glastonbury happen? This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom, with additional reporting by Philip Clarke. To contact Johann and Hugh, please email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

The Government has today published details of how farmers in England can make their industry more environmentally friendly, and claim taxpayers money for doing so. On leaving the European Union, a new payment system for farmers was set up called the Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMs), it aims to reward farmers for providing "public goods", such as improved soil health, and more wildlife habitats, rather than just for the amount of land they farm. One of the threads of this new system is the Sustainable Farming Incentive; it's the lowest rung of the environmental schemes and the one the government wants the majority of farmers to join. Today after much piloting and preparation the detail is being published in full- with a 150 page handbook being made available to farmers to guide them through their choices. Farm Minister Mark Spencer goes through the details with Anna Hill. All this week we're looking into sheep production - today we visit Scotland's Agricultural College to look at a new system for measuring how much methane sheep produce, and find out how that information can be used by farmers and breeders. Presented by Anna Hill Produced in Bristol by Natalie Donovan

In this episode, farmers face a hike in levy rates under plans announced by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.It follows what has been described as a 'near death experience' by the levy board and an admission that it hasn't been delivering for growers.We join the crowds as the Cereals event welcomes visitors to a new venue – the Thoresby Estate in Nottinghamshire.Defra farm minister farm minister Mark Spencer tells us he plans to put the 'meat on the bones' of the government's Sustainable Farming Incentive.Payment rates and conditions are due to be unveiled for the 2023 scheme, which rewards farmers for looking after the environment while farming sustainably.It's been a challenging year for cereal growers – we look at prospects for this year's harvest and what to consider when planning next season's cropping.And we go to a gig with The Wurzels, who are celebrating more than 50 years in show business and helping to raise money for charity.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and FW arable correspondent Louise Impey, with additional reporting by Hugh Broom.To contact Johann and Hugh, please email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.Recorded live on location at the 2023 Cereals event held on 13 June 2023 at the Thoresby Estate, Nottinghamshire. 

Welcome to the fifth episode of The RPA Podcast.In our latest episode, the RPA's Chief Executive, Paul Caldwell, speaks to Andrew Hawnt, from the RPA's Internal Communications team, about his reflections of 2022 and ambitions for the year ahead.  Faye Slade, from the RPA's Countryside Stewardship Agricultural Transition team, talks us through the recent Countryside Stewardship updates and gives us the latest information. This includes January's Capital Payments announcements and the opening of the Higher Tier application window in February.We also take some time to reflect on the recent Environmental Land Management schemes announcements, including the extra Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme standards that will become available this summer. Alex Hills, Sustainable Farming Incentive Pilot Delivery Manager at the RPA, discusses the announcement at the end of January and how it provided clarity about what more will be available this year and beyond. Later in the episode we hear from Andy Powley, Defra's policy lead for resilience, about how the Future Farming Resilience Fund is providing free business support to farmers and land managers during agricultural transition.The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

This week, opposition leader Keir Starmer sets out his stall at NFU conference – as Defra secretary Therese Coffey comes under fire from farmers.Farm minister Mark Spencer announces new funding for small abattoirs – but can't say exactly how much is available.Could prospects be about to improve for tenant farmers? We find out from Baroness Kate Rock – author of the Rock Review on tenant farming.On the markets, we've all the latest prices and find out the winner of this week's Commodity Cashback competition.Red meat exports have hit a record high – we discover why.And we talk to the young farmer who resurrected his local club and won a national Aspiring Rural Leader Award for his efforts.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom, with additional reporting by Farmers Weekly deputy editor Abi Kay and chief reporter Phil Case.To contact Johann and Hugh, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.For full terms and conditions for our Commodity Cashback competition, please visit www.fwi.co.uk/commoditycashback.

Another busy week for farming events, we get a taste of what's on offer at Stoneleigh this week, the latest fly-tipping stats are out, how do they look? And we've some more meat on the bones of the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Plus agronomy advice, crop and market reports and prices and the weather for the week to come.

The secretary of state for the environment, Therese Coffey, has visited a farm in Berkshire to sell the updated version of the SFI - the Sustainable Farming Incentive which will pay English farmers to do good things for the environment, such as maintaining hedgerows or improving soil. It's the first tier of the Environmental Land Management Schemes - ELMs - which offer farmers payments for public goods, rather than direct subsidy, the BPS payments, as has been the case under the EU's CAP. The scheme's being expanded and that's been broadly welcomed by farmers - who can now get better payments for 280 actions they can take on their land, but conservationists question the level of ambition in the SFI, though welcome news that more projects will be supported under another ELMs scheme, Landscape Recovery. The main industry bodies representing fishermen in the UK say the industry faces a 'frightening' loss of fishing grounds over the coming decades due to the expansion of protected marines areas and offshore wind farms. The National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations and the Scottish Fishermen's Federation says there should be more engagement with the industry to minimise and mitigate the displacement of fishing activity. Presenter: Charlotte Smith Producer: Rebecca Rooney

This week, the government announced extra money for farmers in England who sign up to its Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme.But is it enough to make the scheme more attractive to farmers?With high input costs set to be a big challenge during 2023 – we ask whether alternatives to nitrogen fertiliser are worth considering.In other news, a group of farmers is reaping the benefits after deciding to run their own environmental facilitation group.On the markets, we've all the latest commodity prices.And food and farming has been recognised in the New Year Honours  – with a special award for a farm safety campaigner.To contact us at the Farmers Weekly Podcast, text the word FARM  followed by your message to 88440 – or email podcast@fwi.co.uk.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom. Additional reporting by Phil Case.

In this podcast, an audio taken from a Webinar held on 25th August 2022, which Tim Sedgewick, Chartered Surveyor and Director for H&H Land & Estates Durham office chaired, we learn more about about the forthcoming grants and schemes available to farmers and landowners in England this year. Sarah Radcliffe, Forestry & Woodland Manager chats through the updates for Woodland Planting Grants and David Morley, Head of Conservation & Environment talks through the Sustainable Farming Incentive. If you'd like more advice please get in touch via one of H&H Land & Estates offices - all details are on their website www.hhlandestates.co.uk

In this AHDB Food & Farming podcast episode, our resident podcast host John Bates speaks to AHDB's Senior Market Analyst, Amandeep Kaur Purewal, to discuss whether the UK-New Zealand free trade agreement is likely to be a threat or an opportunity for UK producers and explains the likely impact on the UK supply chain. There has been intense scrutiny over the impacts this new trade deal will have on British farming, so we have partnered with Harper Adams University to model the impact of the trade deal and provide economic analysis.  Also joining John on this special edition podcast, is Frances Duignan - Senior Manager for International Trade at Beef and Lamb New Zealand, along with kiwi beef and sheep farmer Mal Poulton who farms in the North Island of New Zealand. They explain the opportunities the trade deal can present to different markets and tell us about how their production systems vary from the UK, including the pressures they are facing in the rising cost of production. They are well placed to share their views about the UK/New Zealand trade deal and provide a glimpse into the livestock farming methods in the southern hemisphere. This podcast was produced by Sarah Measom. Useful information: UK-New Zealand free trade agreement pt1: UK Consumer perception of New Zealand red meat imports  https://audioboom.com/posts/8118195-the-impact-of-the-new-zealand-trade-agreement-pt1-uk-consumer-perception-of-new-zealand-red-mea  The impact of a UK-New Zealand free trade agreement on UK agriculture: https://ahdb.org.uk/trade-and-policy/the-impact-of-a-uk-nz-free-trade-agreement-on-uk-agriculture AHDB's Trade and Policy webpage: https://ahdb.org.uk/trade-and-policy  Assessing the impact of the Sustainable Farming Incentive: https://ahdb.org.uk/assessing-the-impact-of-the-sustainable-farming-incentive-on-farm-businesses  Upcoming webinar: https://ahdb.org.uk/events/new-zealand-uk-free-trade-agreement 

The Sustainable Farming Incentive is now open for applications. Through SFI, farmers will be paid for looking after the natural environment while they're farming. This year, we'll start paying farmers for taking care of their soil or assessing the condition of moorland. From next year, we'll be expanding the range of SFI actions farmers can get paid for.For episode 8 of the Future Farming Podcast, we brought together Cambridgeshire farmer Martin Lines and Defra Sustainable Farming Incentive lead Jonathan Marsden to talk about all things SFI and land management. Jonathan explains about the SFI funding that farmers can apply for now, and the new funding that will be available to farmers for environmental land management in the next few years. Find out how to apply for SFI.

Are you interested in joining the Sustainable Farming Incentive but are unsure what would benefit your farm business?  In this episode of our Food and Farming podcast host, John Bates discusses the Sustainable farming Incentive with guests –­ Amandeep Kaur Purewal, Senior Market Intelligence Analyst, AHDB, John Calder, Land Manager in the Southwest of England and Janet Hughes, Director Future Farming and Countryside Programme (FFCP), Defra. Applications for the wider SFI rollout open today, 30 June 2022 and our latest Horizon report already assessed the Sustainable Farming Incentive analysed on Farm business. Amandeep highlights the key messages from this report. John Calder discusses his experience with the SFI pilot scheme, and Janet Hughes, Defra gives details of SFI, challenges and ongoing improvements.  Useful links SFI – AHDB Horizon Blog: Can profitability and sustainability work in harmony in the SFI? – AHDB Horizon Blog: The Sustainable Farming Incentive explained – AHDB Assessing the impact of the Sustainable Farming Incentive on farm businesses – YouTube Sustainable Farming Incentive: standards, payment rates, and how to prepare – Future Farming (blog.gov.uk) Your Feedback We'd love to know what you think of our podcasts. If you'd like to give feedback, please complete our short questionnaire, which will help us improve the podcast on an ongoing basis, or email: foodandfarming@ahdb.org.uk  This episode was produced and edited by Dami Oyinlola, Marcomms Manager (Pork).

In this episode, we spend two days at Groundswell 2022 – the UK's biggest farm event for regenerative agriculture.Also known as conservation farming, regenerative agriculture is all about looking after the soil and improving biodiversity – as well as producing food. But how does it stack up financially?The government's Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) aims to reward arable farmers and livestock producers  in England who prioritise soil health.We speak to Defra secretary George Eustice, as he announces the SFI launch date – and we ask him whether the scheme is ambitious enough.We look at how growers can benefit from introducing grass into arable rotations, get the latest on carbon markets and look at a project to reduce farm paperwork.To help with the  farm paperwork project, visit www.farmadminsurvey.co.uk. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Farmers Weekly arable correspondent Louise Impey.Recorded entirely on location at the Groundswell event – held on 22-23 June 2022 at Lannock Manor Farm, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, UK.

The removal of the Basic Payment Scheme and introduction of the new Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMS) is one of the most significant changes to UK agriculture in a generation. There are three new schemes being introduced over the new few years, starting with the Sustainable Farming Incentive, with applications opening to all farmers and land managers later in 2022. During this episode of the Agronomy Matters podcast we hear from two speakers who can explain a bit more about what these schemes are all about, how it will impact UK agriculture and what opportunities it will provide for farmers and land managers: Tom Lewis, who works at Defra as part of the team developing the Environmental Land Management Schemes, outlines what Defra are trying to achieve through ELMS and how it will help farmers produce food and enhance the wider environment at the same time. Teresa Meadows, Head of Environment, Audit and Public Affairs highlights what BASIS are doing to provide training and professional development opportunities focussed on environmental management and sustainable farming practices. Make sure you listen to the end of the episode to find out how to claim one BASIS CPD point for listening. Click here to see more information on the NEW Principles of Sustainable Land Management Course Information

The RSPB and Greenpeace say they have evidence of illegal burning of peatlands. Burning peat was banned in protected areas and where the peat is deep last year, as part of government efforts to protect and restore peatlands which sequester carbon. Traditionally some have been routinely burnt to create the right habitat for grouse and also to prevent wildfires. But conservationists say they've reported 79 cases of possible illegal peat burning. Applications for the Sustainable Farming Incentive open later this week. It's the first phase of England's replacement for the EU's Common Agricultural Policy: farmers will be paid for the public goods they provide. This is a massive change and there is help and advice for farmers as they make the transition. In Devon, a business advice service - the Business Information Point - has been running a series of free workshops to get farmers up to speed. One of them is about soil, and how to improve it. What impact will climate change have on farming in the future? Met Office scientists have been studying the impacts on everything from producing livestock, to growing crops, disease and drought. Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Welcome to the second episode of The RPA Podcast.In this episode, Sustainable Farming Incentive Pilot Delivery Manager, Alex Hills, talks about the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) pilot scheme, and the important findings that have already been applied to the SFI live service that's due to launch later this year. We also explore the Countryside Stewardship applications window with Rozanne Kidd, Agricultural Transition Director at the RPA. Rozanne focuses on the improvements made to this year's Mid Tier scheme and considers how the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme complements Countryside Stewardship schemes. Later in the podcast Duncan Currie, Project Manager in the Business Transformation Directorate at the RPA, talks us through the recently launched Lump Sum Exit scheme.In our last podcast, we heard how the RPA is focused on listening to customers, learning from their experiences and continuously improving the RPA's services. Listening to our customers is at the heart of this, and in today's episode, Megan Hughes, Samantha Kadzidlo and Jen Bird from the RPA's Customer Development, Journey and Insight Team, discuss the role of the team and how they would like to work with farmers and landowners in the months and years ahead. Megan, Samantha and Jen also highlight their exciting plans to launch the RPA Research and Insight Network Group later in the year.The RPA Podcast is an opportunity to engage with farmers and land managers in a new way, and we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions of particular topics that you'd like us to cover with our subject experts. You can e-mail us at External.Affairs@rpa.gov.uk.Follow us on social media for the latest updates and information on the following accounts. Follow us on Twitter @ruralpay Sign up for our blog at blog.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/RuralPaymentsAgency YouTube: Rural Payments Agency By following and subscribing to our social channels and blog, you'll be able to see the latest updates about important information.

In this podcast with Molly Biddell we discuss the business of Rewilding and Regenerative Agriculture and how land owners/land managers will be financially incentivised and supported to undertake Rewilding projects and transition to an regen farming system Molly's bio. My areas of interest include understanding how farming systems and supply chains can better integrate environmental outcomes, the potential of the private market and public sector to enable investment into natural capital, and restructuring of food production systems. I come from a rural background and obtained a BA in Geography from the University of Cambridge. Links to the podcast UK partnership launched to tackle agricultural challenges https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-partnership-launched-to-tackle-agricultural-challenges Landscape Enterprise Networks https://landscapeenterprisenetworks.com Sustainable Farming Incentive: how the scheme will work in 2022 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-farming-incentive-how-the-scheme-will-work-in-2022/sustainable-farming-incentive-how-the-scheme-will-work-in-2022 Local Nature Recovery: more information on how the scheme will work https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/local-nature-recovery-more-information-on-how-the-scheme-will-work/local-nature-recovery-more-information-on-how-the-scheme-will-work Landscape Recovery (Relevant to Rewilding) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/environmental-land-management-schemes-overview/environmental-land-management-scheme-overview Keywords: Regen Agriculture, biodiversity net gain, natural capital, biodiversity, Rewilding, wilding, Rewildng Great Britain.

Wildflower Turf founder James Hewetson Brown tells HortWeek editor Matthew Appleby about the soilless growing system that has transformed the concept of turf growing.He outlines all the ways to establish wildflowers and how they help to boost species diversity in our green spaces and the other functions they help deliver. These include health and well-being, low maintenance, soil stability, carbon sequestration, pollution (air and water) mitigation as well as the speed and reliability of wildflowers compared with trees.The role of native perennials for our wildlife in the UK is examined, as are the regulatory requirements wildflowers help fulfil, such as National Ecosystems Assessment, Biodiversity Net Gain, Sustainable Farming Incentive, Sustainable Drainage Systems and UK Biodiversity Action Plan. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode, industry leaders pay tribute to 'greatest ever' farming advocate Lord Henry Plumb, who has died aged 97.We look at the payment rates for the Sustainable Farming Incentive and ask: how can the government entice more farmers to take part?On the markets, we have the all latest commodity prices.Farm management company Velcourt acquires a 50% stake in the regenerative agriculture consultancy Oakbank Game & Conservation. How significant is it?The first UK plantations of carbon-capturing tree species Paulownia are due to be planted on a Suffolk estate – what income will they generate?And we meet the agricultural contractor who has traced one of his first tractors – 50 years after he last used it on the farm.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom, with FW arable correspondent Louise Impey.

The pig industry has seen a backlog of animals stuck on farm because of a shortage of butchers in processing plants, but this is starting to ease, and pig prices are going up. After months of talking about the crisis in the pig industry, this should be good news - but farmers worry that with increased costs of feed, they're still losing money on every pig. DEFRA, along with Pasture for Life and Landworkers' Alliance, has funded a "Your Farming Future" programme, which is running a series of farm visits, offering farmers a chance to see how schemes can help them adapt and become more sustainable - both economically and environmentally. The new Sustainable Farming Incentive - which is replacing subsidy payments in England - has been analysed by the levy body AHDB, which says for many farmers the scheme will only offer a small financial benefit. And this week on Farming Today we're looking at growing crops undercover. We speak to Martin Emmett, the newly appointed Chair of the National Farmers' Union's horticulture and potatoes board, about the current state of the growing industry and what the impact of rising gas prices is. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced for BBC Audio by Caitlin Hobbs

With fertiliser prices rising, Defra Secretary George Eustice responds by delaying new restrictions on some, and clarifying the rules on muck spreading. And we hear more detail on have also been released about the Sustainable Farming Incentive or SFI - part of the new system of farm payments being introduced in England. The food waste charity WRAP estimate that just over 3% of food harvested is wasted before it gets to consumers - and once in our homes we waste far more. With MPs discussing food security and prices in a Westminster Hall debate called for by the SNP, we hear from farmer Will Woodhall who grows spring onions and beetroot alongside cereal crops - but who this year hasn't been able to sell all his produce. The Trade and Agriculture Commission deliver their advice on the Australia-UK trade deal to ministers today - looking at the impacts of the deal on UK food and farming - and that's what we've been doing all week. Farmers here are worried they will be exposed to imports of cheaper meat, and in particular lamb meat, which is produced in ways that aren't allowed here. Peter Hadfield has been in Merriwa to hear what Australian sheep farmers make of it. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Caitlin Hobbs

In this episode we discuss the agricultural transition, the new schemes and what they mean for the farming and land management sector. Since the vote to leave the European Union, we have spent several years talking about the replacement of the Common Agricultural Policy with new schemes designed in the UK. In England the agricultural transition has now begun with farmers seeing the first cuts to their direct payments last month whilst awaiting the launch of the Sustainable Farming Incentive later in 2022. What will you hear?Harry Greenfield, CLA Senior Land Use Policy Adviser, gives details about the Sustainable Farming Incentive, including what is on offer this year and how it will develop over the next few years. Harry also shares with us the improvements made to the Countryside Stewardship and the opportunities it provides. Cameron Hughes, CLA Land Use Policy Adviser, talks us through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway for livestock farmers, the range of productivity and support schemes available, and how you can prepare your farm for the transition. We have recorded a webinar to give you a better understanding of the Agricultural Transition, you can view it on demand here. You can find out here (please can you link the word “here” with this link https://www.cla.org.uk/agricultural-transition/) how the CLA has influenced the development of new agricultural legislation and policies in England, as well as access CLA Guidance Notes and articles on the Agricultural Transition in England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Public access campaigners say they've been betrayed, after DEFRA says payments for access won't be included in the Sustainable Farming Incentive in England. The future of the planning system shouldn't focus on housebuilding alone, but also on “democratic sentiment” and “environmental benefit" - according to the new Secretary of State for Housing and Levelling Up, Michael Gove. And, as the damage of yesterday's Storm Barra is assessed, it couldn't have come at a worse time for those already hit by Storm Arwen. We hear from a farmer who was left without electricity for 11 days. Presented by Anna Hill Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

Charlotte Smith visits Thame Farmers Mart in Oxfordshire where a weekly livestock auction is taking place. Following the latest announcements from Government about the future of farm payments in England, we hear farmers' views. Another hot topic is the shortage of labour - both on farm and in the wider food industry. We visit a turkey farm in the midst of the pre-Christmas rush, hear how some Northern Irish dairy farmers are leaving the industry and ask how Riverford has managed to employ 50% British field workers. Presented by Charlotte Smith Producer for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

In this episode, we examine the payment rates for Defra's new Sustainable Farming Incentive - will it work for farmers?We count the cost of Storm Arwen on farms and rural businesses – as a Yorkshire farmer recounts an unusual rescue mission.With a whopping 37 seed varieties added to the AHDB recommended lists, we look at how you choose the cereal and oilseed crop that's right for you?On the markets, we review the 2021 farmland market – and look ahead to 2022.And we take a walk with the Hedgerow Chaplain – who holds a very different kind of church service in the Somerset countryside.Recorded at the CLA Rural Business Conference in London, this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom.

A paper from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics calls for a new international agreement to be reached around welfare in any future gene-edited farm animals - to ensure it doesn't cause them harm, or lead to farming methods with lower welfare standards. Later this week the Government will announce details about the new support payments for farmers, the Sustainable Farming Incentive. At an online conference yesterday for tenant farmers, run by the National Farmers' Union, the Farming Minister Victoria Prentis surprised delegates by saying that the details of subsidies in England "will change from year to year". And a Northern Ireland charity says that a lack of farm workers is causing a spike in calls to its helpline, with farmers there leaving the dairy industry because a lack of staff is making the job impossible. Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

In September 2021 the Farming Forum held a two-part Q&A session with Janet Hughes, Defra's Future Farming and Countryside Programme Director. Farmers were invited to submit their questions about the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Clive Bailye, Director of the Farming Forum, put the most-asked questions to Janet. The original videos can be watched here and here. We are making this version available as slightly abridged highlights version on the podcast. 

The government has said what it will pay farmers to improve their soils under the new Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme. Anna Hill hears from farmer Richard Heady who is questioning the cost-benefits of implementing the scheme, and she asks Matt Culley from the National Farmers' Union for their response. Paul Murphy reports on an Estate near Lincoln which has plans to rewild 900 acres of arable land. For farmland bird week Bob Walker visits a farm in Nottinghamshire to find out about a project which aims to link environmentally-sensitive sites. Presenter: Anna Hill Producer in Bristol: Toby Field

Charlotte Smith wraps up a week of farming news, including a trip to Cereals 2021. DEFRA announced some long-awaited details on the Sustainable Farming Incentive this week. That's tier 1 of the Environmental Land Management Schemes - the new system of public money for public goods that's replacing farm subsidies from the EU in England. We hear from the Secretary of State, George Eustice, who says under the SFI, the Government will give farmers money to employ a vet of their choice to draw up an animal welfare plan. There will also be an option to apply for payments to improve soil quality - they would range from £21 to £70 a hectare and farmers could apply under different sections; arable and horticulture, grassland, and moorland. British sugar is taking the Government to court, claiming the decision to allow 260,000 tonnes of raw cane sugar to be imported into the UK tariff free after Brexit is, in effect, a subsidy which puts British farmers as a disadvantage. We hear from the Chair of the new Office for Environmental Protection - which was launched this week. The OEP has been set up to hold the Government to account on progress towards its environmental targets and to receive citizens' complaints about failures by public authorities. But environmental groups are worried it might not have adequate powers or resources to do its job properly, and in the House of Lords last week, concerns were raised about its independence. Presented by Charlotte Smith Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

Anna Hill visits the Cereals 2021 event - in a flat, windy field to talk crops, drones and politics. Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice announces details of the new Sustainable Farming Incentive, which will pay farmers for environmentally-enhancing work on the farm. Produced by Beatrice Fenton.

This week's episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast was recorded on location at Groundswell – the UK annual event dedicated to regenerative agriculture.We meet the farmers who are improving soil health while ensuring their farms remain profitable and productive. How do they do it?We look at the latest government plans to reward farmers who look after soil, water and the environment. How exactly will farmers be paid?We get the low-down on a new £100,000 direct drill. And we speak to the people bringing conventional and organic producers together.And we meet artist and farmer's son Henry Driver whose latest work is a novel interpretation of the soil beneath out feet.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Farmers Weekly chief reporter Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer Hugh Broom with Farmers Weekly editor Andrew Meredith and Farmers Weekly senior machinery reporter Edd Mowbray.Recorded on location at Groundswell 2021, held on 23-24 July 2021 at Lannock Manor Farm, Weston, Hitchin, Hertordshire.

As farming begins to move away from the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) towards new policies that will be co-designed and tested together with farmers, land managers and experts, we're looking at the Sustainable Farming Incentive.What does it mean for growers and, will it actually do what it says on the tin?The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) forms part of the ELM scheme, which will open up to farmers in 2022. SFI will pay farmers to take actions that deliver desired environmental outcomes, such as boosting levels of organic matter in soils or planting hedgerows to provide year-round food, shelter and breeding cover for birds and insects. With some farmers across the country deciding to enter the pilot scheme we're putting it under the spotlight to understand it in real terms. To find out more about SFI, Farmers Guardian Chief Reporter Abi Kay is joined by NFU Vice President Tom Bradshaw and AHDB's Strategic Insight Manager Sarah Baker. LinksTo learn more about AHDB's take, visit their EU Exit Perspectives blog: https://ahdb.org.uk/eu-exit-perspectives-blog Find out more about the sustainable farming incentive: https://www.nfuonline.com/cross-sector/environment/agri-environment-schemes/agri-environment-news/what-is-the-sustainable-farming-incentive/ Read our take on SFI: https://www.fginsight.com/news/news/concerns-raised-over-sfi-pilot-as-defra-publishes-details-of-scheme-117564 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.