Hill farmers planning to sign up to the Uplands Entry Level Scheme still have time to get their applications in.
Natural England has set out a timetable for those who want to apply as well as guidance for those who would prefer to apply online.
The first Uplands ELS agreements begin on 1 July and Natural England said applicants who want their agreements to start on that date should be aware of the following deadlines:
• Those who received an application pack before 1 April should return it by 1 May for a 1 July start date.
• Those upgrading from HLS who requested a pack by 15 March, but only received it after 1 April, have until 15 June to apply.
• Anyone requesting a pack now can still obtain a 1 July start date provided they submit a valid application by 1 May.
• Applications received after 1 May could be given a later start date. Natural England aims to process applications within three months and will work hard to give applicants the earliest start date possible.
Farmers and landowner who have yet to request an application pack or those who want help applying can contact Natural England for advice.
Free farm groups are taking place across the country and the organisation can arrange visits from their advisors to offer more information.