We are urgently developing research requirements with other European laboratories to make sure we understand and the disease (Schmallenberg) better.Farmers praised as stewardship boosts economy
DEFRA has heaped praise on farmers engaged in environmental stewardship schemes for the knock-on economic boost they provide to local communities.
A new report, the Incidental socio-economic benefits of Environmental Stewardship, found an investment of £249 million into ES schemes in 2009 generated a knock on benefit of £64.7 million in local communities.
Huw Irranca-Davies, Wildlife Minister, said it was good to see that schemes aimed at protecting biodiversity and the natural environment could also provide significant local income.
“Our farmers do a vital job looking after the countryside, protecting wildlife and habitats, as well as restoring and maintaining iconic features such as dry stone walls.
“Their work and involvement in these schemes also lead to important positive ripple effects on their local communities, through increases in employment, local investment and social networks,” he said.
Poul Christensen, Chair of Natural England, added: “This report confirms the value that is delivered by Environmental Stewardship.”
Key findings from the report:
- Current Environmental Stewardship (ES) scheme expenditure has supported around 665 new full-time equivalent jobs in local communities between 2005 and 2009
- Last year, £249 million was invested in ES and as a result, an additional £64.7 million was generated by the local economy
- A large proportion of the scheme work - such as ensuring wildlife, landscape and historical features are created, restored and maintained - is undertaken directly as a result of ES scheme payments
- Farmers, contractors and advisers reported improving their skills and knowledge through participating in schemes, and through attending associated training
