As Defra plans the next round of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is pushing for changes that support farmers facing climate challenges. This comes after one of the driest springs since 1956, leading many to struggle with low winter forage supplies. Farmers are forced to dip into limited forage to feed their animals, raising concerns about grazing policies.
Right now, the rules don’t allow flexibility for grazing on land designated for environmental schemes without risking financial penalties. Farmers have asked the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) for more understanding of their situations, but many feel their needs aren’t being addressed.
David Exwood, NFU Deputy President, highlighted the urgency for improvements. He said, “This summer, we’ve repeatedly pointed out to the government that the current rules don’t allow farmers to adapt without losing valuable payments.”
Exwood emphasizes the importance of adjusting the SFI to help farmers navigate unpredictable weather patterns. Our climate is becoming more extreme, with both dry and wet periods increasing. Such shifts require a more flexible approach in agri-environment programs. This flexibility will help protect animal welfare while ensuring farmers are compensated fairly for their environmental efforts, which are vital for maintaining our food supply.
Moreover, experts suggest that without these adaptations, farmers may struggle to remain viable. Recent studies show that over 40% of UK farmers reported poorer crop yields over the last year due to climate impacts. Adapting policies to support farmers could boost resilience in the face of these growing challenges.
Ultimately, addressing these needs is not just about supporting farmers; it’s about safeguarding our agricultural future. For more information on this issue, you can read this detailed report from the NFU.
