New environment award scheme launched

The two organisations are introducing a unique Simple Solutions Farm Award and urging farmers across Wales to put their schemes forward.

The winner will receive professional advice to the value of £1,000 from an approved consultant, along with £1,250 to carry out further on-farm environmental improvements.

The runner-up will receive a £750 grant for works on the farm.

Examples of the schemes that could apply for the Simple Solutions farming award are:

• Improvements to cattle tracks that reduce lameness and reduce run off.
• Covering slurry stores that increase slurry storage and improve nutrient content.
• Creating a reed bed system to clean up grey water from yards and reduce run off.

Roofing yards to keep rain off and reduce the amount of dirty water to deal with.

Collecting rainwater to use as drinking water for stock.

 “Some farmers are making simple, inexpensive changes to their farms which reduce their impact on local rivers and the countryside and we feel this should be recognised,” says Chris Mills, Director of Environment Agency Wales.

“In the current financial climate squeezing every last drop of profit is the driving force for every farmer, but the important thing is that the changes they make not only achieves greater profitability but also reduces the impact of the farm on the environment.”

The award is open to all farmers with no restrictions placed on size of farm or type of farming.

Entries close on June 25, with the winners being announced at the Royal Welsh Show.

Details at simplesolutions@environment-agency.gov.uk or by telephone from Michelle Duggan on 02920 466 029.

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