New cover crops funding scheme open in south-east England

Farmers in two target areas of Kent are now able to express their interest in taking part in a cover crop funding scheme.

The scheme will be run in an area close to Folkestone and an area above Dover.

Funding is being provided by Affinity Water and it will be run in partnership with the south-east England branch of the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group.

See also: Environmental schemes: Should farmers make the switch now?

Its primary aim is to improve water quality and cut soil erosion by reducing nitrate leaching in the area.

The programme opened on 13 June and is set to close on 31 July, with further information still due to be released about specific terms and conditions for offers.

Payment rates are anticipated to be £100/ha for a single species and £125/ha for more than two species.

For more information and to register interest, email helen.theobald@fwagsoutheast.co.uk.