On our farm, this transition is a window of opportunity. Right now, we’re clearing ditches as part of our higher tier Countryside Stewardship agreement. This work can only be done in the short period before winter sets in and the fields become too wet. Using Land App, we’ve mapped out exactly where work needs to be done and transferred that data to our mobile devices. Standing in the field with Land App Mobile in hand, I can visualise the ditches, their locations, and the next steps for maintenance and implementing our Stewardship agreement. It’s a simple yet powerful example of how tech helps bridge the gap between planning and actual delivery on the farm.
In a similar way, the current clarity around payment rates for Countryside Stewardship and SFI schemes presents a key moment for farmers. After years of uncertainty, we now have an opportunity to lock in known payment rates, and it makes sense to take advantage of this. Despite reports of underspending and rumours of a potential change to the farming budget, at present there seems to be a window where payment rates are clear and, by and large, accessible for the majority of farmers and land managers. In the past, farmers may have hesitated with the confusion surrounding new schemes, but today, it’s much more straightforward – and Land App makes it easier than ever to plan, apply, and access the funding available.
For those of us navigating the intricacies of rural management, there’s a sense of urgency to act before these payment rates change. With government policies often in flux, it’s anyone’s guess what the future holds. So, I’d urge my fellow landowners and farmers to make the most of this window of clarity, especially with the tools and support available. Use this winter to get your schemes in place – whether that’s through government schemes, or broader farm strategy such as considering diversification.
On our farm, we’re already planning a hedgerow scheme with fruit trees along a public footpath, which feels like the perfect project for this time of year. What I’ve come to realise is that technology plays a critical role in these planning stages. Not only does it simplify admin tasks – like applying for government schemes – but it also opens up new possibilities for diversification and long-term strategy. Whether you’re focusing on farm productivity or looking to make better use of your assets, now is the time to map out your path forward.
So, if you haven’t yet started using Land App, or if you’re holding back on schemes like SFI or Countryside Stewardship, there’s no better time than now to consider these options. Don’t wait until next year when the funding landscape might shift – take advantage of the current clarity and get your plans in place. And as always, our team at Land App is here to support you in every step of that process, from planning to execution.
Tim Hopkin
Founder and CEO, Land App
