Update: the Preparing for Sustainable Agriculture scheme in Scotland
In recent weeks I have blogged about how the Sustainable Farming Inventive (SFI) in England has been progressing, as well as how the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) is being received by Welsh farmers. In fact, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a financial increase to the management payment from £1,000 to £2,000 at the NFU conference last week. But what’s happening in Scotland?
It’s fascinating to keep abreast of the devolved schemes. However, it’s a little confusing at times, because they are all similar but actually different! If farmers are to take advantage of what’s on offer within and across the borders of our small island, they need to remain aware of what they need to do as the schemes evolve.
The latest update on the Preparing for Sustainable Agriculture (PSA) scheme in Scotland was posted on the 10th of February. Click here to read more.
One thing to be aware of now is that the claim period is closing on Wednesday 28th February. Make sure you get your claims in for work completed by the end of December last year to take advantage of the scheme.
A reminder of how you claim
The claim deadline applies to carbon audits, soil sampling, animal health and welfare options completed between 1st January and 31st December 2023. Any claims need to be submitted via the online portal by 28th February 2024. Remember: only one claim per option can be submitted annually.
To submit a claim for carbon audits and soil analysis, you need to upload invoice(s), the business bank statement(s) (for proof of payment), a copy of your soil analysis and fertiliser recommendations, and provide some details about your carbon audit.
The claim process for the animal health and welfare options is much simpler, as only the Expert Adviser form (one per intervention) needs to be uploaded. Farm consultants can submit farm PSF claims on behalf of farmers, but farmers need to authorise a new mandate “The National Test Program” on your RP&S portal.
How NRM can help
NRM offers the full range of soil and crop analytical tests to help you meet your analysis obligations if you participate in Defra or the devolved government schemes. Speak to your adviser or contact us by clicking here to order kits or book your analysis.