Scottish agri-environment grant scheme deadline looms
© Adobe Stock Time is running out for Scottish farmers and crofters to apply for funding through an important agri-environment scheme, NFU Scotland (NFUS) has warned.
The application window for the 2021 Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) closes on Wednesday 30 June.
The opening of the 2021 round of the scheme follows a concerted effort by NFUS officials to highlight gaps in agri-environment support.
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To address the gaps, the scheme is focused on particular areas:
- Designated sites
- Organic farming
- Management supporting farmland waders, corn buntings and corncrakes
- Slurry stores
- Improving public access.
Union vice-president Andrew Connon said the scheme was vital in supporting Scottish farmers and crofters to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.
“The scheme supports Scottish farmers to deliver essential environmental benefits, including peatland management, protecting vulnerable species, and providing habitats for pollinators on farm,” Mr Connon said.
“The AECS has huge buy-in from the sector – with 3,000 farms, crofts and estates involved – but this support is at risk unless future schemes run on a fully-funded basis,” he said.
Mr Connon urged the newly elected Scottish government to make decisions on the future schemes a priority and provide a clear commitment on future agri-environment support.
Applying for the scheme
Anyone applying for the scheme must ensure that applications are endorsed by the relevant project officer to support claims for waders and corn bunting, the NFUS noted.
Eligibility is linked to a farm or croft’s location and the full scheme guidance should be read ahead of making an application.
Applications can then be made through Scotland’s Rural Payments and Services website.