Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund: £2.5m Available

Encouraging Collaboration for a Greener Countryside

The government has announced the opening of the eighth round of the Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund on 23rd October, 2023. This fund, worth £2.5 million, aims to promote collaboration among farmers, foresters, and land managers to enhance local environmental outcomes.

Improving Environmental Outcomes Through Collaboration

The Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund is designed to bring together groups of farmers, foresters, and land managers with a shared interest in improving the environment in rural areas. These groups are encouraged to work together to achieve specific environmental goals, such as:

• Enhancing Wildflower and Grassland
• Protecting Meadows and Woodlands

Access to £2.5 Million in Funding

This announcement signifies that farming groups and landowners will have the opportunity to secure a share of £2.5 million in funding over the next three years. Each eligible group can apply for up to £50,000 to fund their environmental improvement projects. The fund is designed to be flexible, allowing projects to be tailored to suit the unique characteristics of each local area.

A Proven Track Record of Success

Since its establishment in 2015, the Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund has united approximately 6,000 farmers and land managers into 224 groups across the country. These groups have collaborated to enhance their knowledge and skills for nature restoration in their local areas, making significant contributions to the environment.

Supporting the Wider Aims of Countryside Stewardship

The Facilitation Fund plays an integral role in the broader objectives of the Countryside Stewardship scheme, which focuses on protecting and enhancing the natural environment. These aims include actions to:

• Increase Biodiversity: Promoting a diverse range of plant and animal species.
• Improve Water and Air Quality: Implementing measures to enhance the quality of our natural resources.
• Expand Woodland Areas: Increasing forested regions to support both local ecosystems and timber production.
• Enhance Natural Flood Management: Implementing strategies to manage flood risks more effectively.

How to Apply

Both new and existing groups can apply for a share of the funds here. The application window will remain open for 12 weeks, concluding on 15th January, 2024.