Calls for government to boost nature stewardship on farms

NATURE-FRIENDLY farmers and conservationists are urging the UK Government to boost investment in ambitious land management schemes that support both agriculture and wildlife.

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The Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) are calling on ministers to channel more funding into the Countryside Stewardship (CS) Higher Tier scheme, a crucial initiative enabling farmers to protect and enhance nature.

CS Higher Tier is the most ambitious level of Countryside Stewardship currently available, offering funding for complex, longer-term environmental projects that deliver the greatest benefits for nature.

The NFFN and RSPB say the scheme has already supported farmers in safeguarding vital habitats such as wetlands and meadows, providing homes for rare birds, invertebrates, and plants, while also reducing emissions and minimising the environmental impact of farming.