LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) is offering 60 farmers the chance to participate in pre-pilot trials looking at aspects of the Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS), that will pay Land Managers for delivering public goods under the 25 Year Environment Plan.
LEAF, which has nearly 30 years of experience in the development and promotion of sustainable farming delivered through Integrated Farm Management, has been asked by Defra to explore how training and advice can help farmers to provide the ‘public goods’ towards which public money will be directed.
Lucy Bates, ELMS project coordinator from LEAF explains: “We are delighted to be working with Defra in supporting farmers and their businesses on this transition. The new ELMS Tests & Trials project is a unique opportunity for farmers to play a part in shaping future policy whilst accessing LEAF’s tried and trusted training.”
Using monitored progression towards the established LEAF Marque certification as a measure of effectiveness, LEAF will provide training and support in the implementation of Integrated Farm Management techniques as part of the trial. There will be networking opportunities and the project offers participants the chance to have a positive impact at this important time for policy formulation.
Farmers looking to participate must be located in England and will receive benefits including a package of training, a support network and £500 towards their time and other costs, including membership of LEAF.
Applications close on 29th January 2020. Those looking to apply can do so by visiting https://leafuk.org/about-leaf/working-in-partnership/elms-environmental-land-management-scheme or contacting lucy.bates@leafuk.org
