NI pilot Protein Crops funding scheme to be extended to 2023

Direct support in Northern Ireland for growing combinable beans, peas and sweet lupins has been extended to the end of 2023.

In 2021, 641ha of protein crops were grown under the Protein Crops Scheme, which was launched as a pilot the previous year.

With the number of businesses claiming support of £330/ha increasing from 32 to 113, agriculture minister Edwin Poots announced an extension.

See also: Beef farmer replaces bought-in protein with home-grown pulses

The scheme aims to supply an alternative income stream for farmers by creating a domestically produced source of protein for animal feed while providing agronomic benefits within arable rotations.

Applicants must claim a minimum total area of 0.3ha, with a minimum area in each field of 0.1ha.

Undersowing with grass is not permitted.

The scheme was initially set to run for two years, but with an interim review of its performance showing positive results, it will now be in place until the end of next year.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) said a number of environmental benefits had been recorded on participating farms, including an increase in crop diversity and a reduction in fertiliser use.

Ulster Farmers’ Union deputy president John McLenaghan said extending the scheme would support already flourishing wildlife habitats on farms, benefiting pollinators, and improving soil health, crop diversity and nitrogen fixing.

“I encourage all our members to consider this pilot scheme, which will have massive benefits for their farm business as well as delivering for the environment,” said Mr McLenaghan. 

An economic and environmental evaluation of the pilot scheme will now be carried out.

Farmers can apply on the online Single Application and Maps Service using their Government Gateway (GG) or Northern Ireland Civil Service Identity Assurance (NIDA) account details on the Daera website.