Agri-environment schemes – the future

Developing a programme that encourages more Welsh farmers to take part in schemes that benefit the environment.

Building the pyramid

 

Since 1999, much has changed in terms of Welsh agri-environment policy. Whole farm schemes that are available across the entire country have largely replaced the original mixture of part-farm and whole-farm agreements.

Now CCW believes the most effective way of delivering the Welsh agri-environment programme is through the use of a pyramid model.

First tier. We believe the base of this pyramid should involve a set of regulatory standards which are respected by all farmers. In addition we recommend applying a ‘cross compliance’ system – in order to make sure that farms receiving other Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) payments do not cause any harm to the environment.

This tier should then include an annual payment per hectare in return for delivering basic resource management including the protection of air, soil, water, wildlife habitats and other environmental features valued by the public.

Second tier. This should cover specified improvements in wildlife habitat and species management, conservation of traditional crops and livestock and landscape management. It should also introduce new public access developments as well as pollution control measures.

Top tier. This would allow groups of farms to work together as an environmental or socio-economic unit. They will receive assistance so long as a management agreement delivers benefits over and above those that a single farm can achieve.

With Tir Cynnal and Tir Gofal already in place, work has already begun on the proposed ‘top tier’. Since 2005, CCW has been contributing to the National Assembly’s catchment sensitive farming pilot scheme on the Afon Tegid and Afon Cleddau. And, together with the Environment Agency, RSPB and Wildlife Trusts, CCW has commissioned detailed research work in order to guide the development of this co-operative land management scheme for Wales.

Through this pyramid model the majority of farmers should be able to access a modest payment both quickly and easily. At the same time they will be encouraged to take part at more demanding levels within the agri-environment programme.