DEFRA have been monitoring the impact of the following options, which take land out of food production:

• IGL1: Take improved grassland field corners or blocks out of management
• IGL2: Winter bird food on improved grassland
• AHL1: Pollen and nectar flower mix
• AHL2: Winter bird food on arable and horticultural land
• AHL3: Grassy field corners and blocks
• IPM2: Flower-rich grass margins, blocks or in-field strips

As of 26th March 2024, there will now be a cap of 25% of a holding able to be entered into these actions. According to DEFRA, these actions were designed to be carried out on smaller areas within land parcels and are less effective if they are carried out on larger areas, and the impact on food production is greater.

The cap comes into effect immediately for any applications submitted going forward. Existing agreements, and applications submitted before midnight on 25th March are unaffected.

If you have any questions or queries regarding this announcement, or the SFI generally, please contact a member of the Agricultural Team.