GWCT News Blog

‘Regenerative’ agriculture is seen by some as perhaps only the latest buzzword in a long line of farming systems: organic; conventional; conservation; sustainable intensification; agroecological.

Starting 1st November 2023, a new environmental principles duty has taken effect, marking a crucial milestone in embedding environmental considerations into government policy-making.

Defra and the Forestry Commission have announced substantial funding enhancements for two major forestry land management schemes - the England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) and Countryside Stewardship (CS).

Using the term ‘killing’ rather than ‘management’ would not be my choice when discussing the merits of removing one species to protect another. But I chose it here as it refers to the headings of two recent articles in the Guardian that demonstrate the value of control. Both epitomise the challenge that conservation has in addressing public values and attitudes towards the management of pests, invasive species and native predators.

The government has unveiled plans to secure continued access to essential pesticides for the country's farmers and growers. These plans, formulated in response to feedback from the farming industry, aim to provide stability, reduce input costs, and support resilient and profitable food production.

The UK government has announced the opening of the eighth round of the Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund on October 23, 2023

The newly launched Sustainable Futures Report 2023, published by the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), shares insights on how new entrants and next-generation farmers can overcome key barriers to working in the industry.

The RSPB Scotland has nominated the GWCT’s Balgonie Biodiversity Project for the 2023 Nature of Scotland Awards. It is one of four projects shortlisted in the Food and Farming category for its excellent work at the arable demonstration farm near Glenrothes in eastern Scotland.

The government have confirmed that farmers who initiated their Countryside Stewardship 2024 applications by the September 15th deadline will receive an extension.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the key details and steps to prepare for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), a program designed to support your farm business while promoting sustainable practices.