Agri-Environment Scheme Questions
What is an agri-environment scheme?
An agri-environment scheme provides funding for farmers and landowners to manage their land in a way that brings about environmental benefits to the countryside. These benefits include enhancing biodiversity, improving water quality, protecting the landscape and heritage and helps to mitigate against climate change .
How many agri-environment participants are there in Northern Ireland?
Currently there are just under 13,000 participants which accounts for around 42% of the agricultural land area in Northern Ireland. The target is to have 50% of the agricultural land under agreement by 2013.
Which agri-environment schemes are available in Northern Ireland?
The Northern Ireland Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) are currently closed to applications, however we anticipate that these will open again in early 2010.
Who can apply?
The Countryside Management Scheme is open to all farmers and land managers with a Business Identification Number (Business ID) and with at least three hectares of eligible land.
I am in an existing agri-environment scheme, can I enter into this scheme?
Yes. However, in the event of too many applications for the scheme, applications may have to be prioritised. This may mean that existing scheme holders will have a lower priority than applicants with designated sites.
How are agri-environment schemes funded?
Schemes are funded under the N.Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-13. These are part- financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
For more information on Agri-environment schemes see the Countryside Management website.
