Conservation grants provide funding for habitat creation, improvement and management. Funding is provided by the European Union and each country in the UK has interpreted and implemented European legislation differently. Since 1 January 2015 there are new European Union funds and new rules apply.
Countryside Stewardship is the environmental land management scheme administered by Natural England.
Countryside Stewardship helps to improve flood management, landscape character, genetic conservation and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
In November 2017 a number of new streamlined Countryside Stewardship options were announced.
Existing (2007-2013) conservation grants under Environmental Stewardship – administered by Natural England – will continue to operate but will be closed to new applications.
The Welsh Government administers agricultural schemes. Glastir is the sustainable land management scheme, through which financial support is given to farmers and land managers.
The Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) scheme guidance is available from the Scottish Government website.
Northern Ireland Agri-environment schemes details are available from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs website.
Breeding Curlew Need You The curlew population stands on the brink of collapse. Data shows a 46 per cent decline in breeding curlew in the UK between 1994 and 2010, with a more than 50 per cent decline in Wales and Scotland. The numbers are still in rapid decline and
Woodcock Woodcock are traditionally viewed as one of the most sporting of birds and their appearance adds excitement to any day’s shooting. Their curious zig-zagging flight, and distinctive form make them instantly recognisable, but the numbers of breeding woodcock are declining and shooters can help. Download our Woodcock factsheet here
Open Access The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CroW) created a public right of access to mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common land in England and Wales. This opens up nearly a million hectares of countryside for people’s enjoyment in England and Wales. This symbol indicates you
