Deadline looms to submit SFI 2024 applications

Farmers in England who still wish to claim support under the 2024 Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) have until Monday 18 August to submit their applications.

The 2024 SFI, which pays farmers for a range of sustainable farming practices, was abruptly closed in March of this year when the money ran out.

See also: Defra funding gap threatens vital farmland habitats

But following industry pressure, Defra was persuaded to open it again on 7 July for about 3,000 farmers who had previously started applying, but had not completed the process by the 11 March cut-off date.

The new cut-off date for making an application is Monday, 18 August.

“The sudden closure of the application process has left a lasting mark on the farming community and trust in the system has been significantly shaken,” said Charlotte Ibbs, head of rural at chartered surveyor Bruton Knowles.

“Regardless, we strongly encourage farmers and landowners to double check the status of any applications they may have started before the unexpected closure. You may still have the opportunity to complete and submit them.

“With the busy demands of the farming calendar, it can be easy to let these things slip through the cracks, but the SFI provides valuable financial support, and a quick check now could prevent missed opportunities later.”

Part of the SFI incentive is a management payment for the first 50ha.

Landowners will receive £40/ha in the first year of the agreement, followed by £20/ha for the next two years.

Additional payments are made for a whole host of actions that deliver specified environmental benefits.