Applications invited for funding

Shropshire farmers and land managers can now apply for funding under Countryside Stewardship, a county surveyor has advised.

Countryside Stewardship is a targeted scheme which funds projects that restore habitats, improve water quality and woodland, reduce flood risk, protect landscapes and provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds and other wildlife, explained Vicky Price of rural surveyors Berrys.

"Natural England has improved the application process this year to make it easier to apply, including simplifying evidence requirements for claims and applications wherever possible and offering additional support and advice," she said.

"The funding will be offered to those who propose to make the best environmental improvements within their local area.

"The Mid Tier of Countryside Stewardship offers five-year agreements for environmental improvements in the wider countryside, such as reducing diffuse water pollution or improving the environment for birds, pollinators and farm wildlife.

"Higher Tier specifically focuses on environmentally important sites, including commons and woodlands, where the more complex management requires support from Natural England or the Forestry Commission, including tailoring of options."

Those thinking of applying for the Higher Tier will need to have submitted an initial application by May 5, 2017. Higher Tier application packs must be requested by April 13 so that Natural England can send out the maps and evidence requirements in time for farmers and land managers to develop their application.

Mid Tier application packs must be requested by 31 July with applications to be submitted by September 30, 2017.

Natural England will contact everyone who has a Higher Level Stewardship or Entry Level Stewardship agreement expiring this year to let them know which scheme they will be most suited to.

Application packs can be requested from Natural England by calling 0208 026 1089 or for advice call Vicky Price at Berrys on 01544 598080 or email vicky.price@berrys.co.uk