Avoid hidden fees in SFI applications

There is a risk that farmers could incur extra charges when applying for SFI, such as where a land agent or consultant is being paid to handle the paperwork and agronomists are also hired for their technical expertise to complete the necessary actions.

“The issue with other agri-environmental schemes in the past has been the lack of interaction with the agronomist, but the SFI standards are very much agronomist-led,” said Hutchinsons agronomist Ed Porter.

“You need someone with the knowledge, expertise and qualifications to have the technical discussions about the options available, assist with the application process, and conduct the necessary actions required for each standard,” he suggested.

For example, the SFI arable, grassland and soils standards require the completion of soil assessments, a soil management plan, and at the intermediate levels, the inclusion of multi-species cover crops or herbal leys.

In order for these options to be suitable for individual farms, there needs to be discussions about topics such as species selection, rotational impact, potential risks and benefits to following crops, or options for building soil organic matter, Mr Porter noted.

As for the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and nutrient management standards due to be launched this summer, Defra plans to fund farmers to take BASIS-qualified advice on IPM and acquire a nutrient management assessment and report from a FACTS-qualified advisor.

“An agronomist has the technical expertise to talk through all of the options available, the actions needed, and how they will all fit together in a whole-farm situation. It’s more technical than just ticking a few boxes – it’s a whole-farm approach at field level,” Mr Porter added.

To simplify the process of recording and completing all information necessary to meet SFI soils standard requirements, he recommends using the Omnia digital farming platform together with the Omnia Scout app.

Moreover, the tools can also easily generate a pdf report summarising the information required for compliance and assist with nutrient planning.

Mr Porter commented: “I truly believe that the SFI is the right way forward; it’s hugely beneficial to the environment and to the farmer, and may also allow some farmers to get the much-needed recognition for things they’ve been doing on farm for many years.

“It’s so important all farmers engage with the SFI process this year, as there will be a big drop in BPS coming into effect during 2023. The SFI will go some way to helping plug that gap, either directly, or indirectly through the productivity improvements that may be possible from taking up some of these options.

“Farmers have to engage with their agronomist to make sure everything is done properly,” he stressed.