In the Yorkshire Dales we are working with National Trust farm tenants to trial a new approach to payments for methods of farming which result in a better outcome for the environment. Many farmers are already managing their land in a way that benefits wildlife and our trial will build on that enthusiasm and knowledge.
Current payments for environmentally-friendly farming require specific management methods, but we are putting the emphasis on the outcomes for the environment – often called a results-based approach. We provide training and advice to farmers on more sustainable ways of managing their land, but the idea is that they use their own knowledge to achieve more for nature. The better the outcome for nature, the higher the payment.
Our focus is on soils and pollinators which are crucially important for productive farming and our ecosystems, so healthier soils and better habitats for pollinators are a win-win.
Farmers have played the central role in the trial, taking part in monitoring, telling other farmers what it’s been like to take part, and giving feedback about what works and what doesn’t.
