The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme, which includes actions HRW1, HRW2, and HRW3, is designed to encourage environmentally sustainable farming practices. All of these actions can be combined, or 'stacked' to maximise your subsidy income.
HRW1: Assess and Record Hedgerow Condition
- Objective: To maintain and enhance farm biodiversity, the SFI HRW1 action focuses on assessing and recording the condition of hedgerows. This is important as hedgerows provide critical habitats for wildlife and play a role in ecological balance.
- Requirements: Farmers are expected to carry out regular assessments of their hedgerows and systematically record their condition. This includes evaluating the structural integrity, species composition, and overall health of the hedgerows. Such assessments are crucial for planning maintenance activities, ensuring the hedgerows continue to support biodiversity, and comply with conservation strategies.
For this action you will receive £5.00 per 100 metres for one side of an eligible hedgerow per year.
Find out more HERE.
HRW2: Manage Hedgerows
- Objective: Effective management of hedgerows is essential for sustaining their ecological benefits. The HRW2 action promotes practices that help manage hedgerows for long-term health.
- Requirements: Farmers must implement management techniques that protect and improve the hedgerows. This includes trimming them at appropriate times to encourage growth and flowering, which benefits pollinators. It's also important to balance cutting with allowing sections of hedgerows to thicken, ensuring that they provide substantial cover and resources for wildlife.
For this action you will receive £13 per 100 metres for one side of an eligible hedgerow per year.
Find out more HERE.
HRW3: Maintain or Establish Hedgerow Trees
- Objective: Hedgerow trees contribute significantly to the farm's ecosystem by providing habitats and improving biodiversity. The HRW3 action supports their maintenance and establishment.
- Requirements: This involves planting new trees or maintaining existing ones within or alongside hedgerows. Farmers are encouraged to nurture these trees, manage any pest or disease threats, and integrate tree care into regular hedgerow management practices. Establishing new trees may involve selecting appropriate native species that complement local ecology.
For this action you will receive £10 per 100 metres for both sides of an eligible hedgerow per year.
Find out more HERE.
Each of these actions within the SFI framework is closely aligned with promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering natural resource conservation. By meeting these requirements, farmers help preserve the environment while potentially benefiting from the SFI scheme's financial incentives.