- Capital grants available for boreholes, water harvesting and
ventilation
- Temporary derogations available for farmers in the
Sustainable Farming Scheme and farmers delivering preparatory
scheme contacts.
- Guidance available on animal welfare in extreme weather
Farmers and growers facing another period of dry weather can
access practical support available to help them cope.
Agriculture is highly vulnerable to heatwaves and dry conditions,
which can reduce yields, damage grasslands, threaten livestock
welfare and place increasing pressure on water
resources.
While today's conditions are difficult,
research shows that future generations will be
farming in much more challenging conditions because of climate
change, making early adaptation essential.
The Capital Production and Efficiency grant is now open, and
farmers can apply for funding towards climate adaptation measures
such as boreholes, water harvesting equipment, and ventilation
systems including fans for cattle housing.
Farmers who have entered the Sustainable
Farming Scheme (SFS) or delivering preparatory scheme
contacts, who may be struggling to meet
requirements because of the weather, are encouraged to
apply for a temporary derogation via their RPW online account,
including photographic evidence showing the
condition of the crop. Given the exceptional conditions this
year, requests will be looked at favourably and responded to
promptly.
The Cabinet Minister
for Rural Resilience and
Sustainability, , said:
"We recognise the pressures facing farmers and growers during
prolonged dry weather conditions, including impacts on
livestock, crops, and farm businesses.
"That's why we want farmers to know about the support available,
whether through our Capital Grants scheme, or the
flexibility on offer under the Sustainable
Farming Scheme.
We've announced more than £1bn this Senedd term to
support sustainable agriculture, and, through our Water Reform
Programme, we will take full control of water in Wales, now and
for future generations.
Farmers with concerns about animal welfare should seek immediate
advice from their vet. Practical guidance on caring for farm
animals and horses in extreme weather is available
on the Welsh Government's website.
Notes to editors
- The Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) supports farm business
stability, resilience, productivity and
sustainability.
- Farmers participating in the SFS can apply for a temporary
derogation if extreme weather affects their ability to meet
scheme requirements.
- The dates included in the SFS requirements are there to
ensure options deliver environmental benefits in line with scheme
objectives, though it is recognised that flexibility may be
needed, which is why the derogation process exists.
- Farmers wishing to apply for a derogation should contact
Rural Payments Wales via RPW Online as soon as possible,
providing details about the weather, including the date and
time.
- More advice is available on the Welsh Government's
website:
- We have published guidance online on caring for farm animals
in extreme weather this includes links to other sources of
information:
