Taking part in the Campaign makes economic sense
The Campaign launched a new electronic tool for advisers and agronomists at CLA's Game Fair on Firday 23 July. The Cost Calculator demonstrates how the Campaign for the Farmed Environment is economically viable compared to the regulatory alternative.
The Campaign was developed by the industry to fend off a compulsory requirement that would have seen all farmers with cultivated land having to adopt environmental management options on up to 6% of their land in England, in addition to any work they had already completed through agri-environment agreements. This would have resulted in inspections, penalties and significant administrative overheads, as well as placing a financial burden on farmers and land managers. The Campaign cost calculator shows the economic benefits to farmers taking part in the Campaign in comparison with the regulatory alternative.
Bob Bulmer, Hutchinsons Environmental Service Manager said: 'I work closely with farmers and advisers on environmental schemes particularly Cross Compliance, ELS and the Campaign. The cost calculator fills a gap when it comes to evaluating the economic impact of voluntary measures and ELS options. It also highlights the potential consequences of the reintroduction of compulsory set-aside. The calculator is easy to use and gross margins can be quickly amended as situations change.'
At the time of year when crucial cropping decisions are being made, advisers and agronomists will be able to use the tool to demonstrate to clients how voluntary management will benefit the environment and farm businesses through both Entry Level Stewardship (ELS) and the voluntary measures. The Campaign voluntary measures provide the flexibility to take as much or as little non-profitable land out of production so farmers can focus on growing crops in more productive areas, whilst enabling them to protect resources and benefit farmland birds and farm wildlife at the same time.
Advisers and agronomists can request their copy of the Cost Caluclator here
