A new £20 million fund to help England’s farmers, foresters and horticulturalists become more sustainable has been announced by the government.
Agriculture minister Jim Paice said the Farming and Forestry Improvement Scheme (FFIS) would provide rural businesses with grants of up to £25,000 between now and December 2013.
The programme will fund profit-boosting green initiatives that save energy and reduce carbon emissions, reduce dependence on artificial fertilisers through better use of manures, improve soil quality, improve animal health and welfare, save and recycle water and promote woodland management by processing timber more efficiently.
The 1st round of the scheme is open until 17 January as part of DEFRA's Rural Development Programme For England.
Paice said: “Growing our economy goes hand-in-hand with protecting and improving our environment. We want rural businesses to thrive and this new fund will help farmers, foresters and horticulturists to boost their profits and use greener and more efficient ways of working.”
The project was praised by awarding and accrediting organisation the Lantra Awards.
Lesley Barr, head of product development at the Lantra Awards, said: “This is a great opportunity for businesses in England to get training to increase their skills and ultimately make themselves more profitable, while working to support the environment.
“There are many courses, awards and qualifications available that will increase the skills of professionals and businesses applying for this grant such as energy crops and land-based activities.”
More information and application forms are available from the DEFRA website.
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