UFU urges farmers to examine Farming with Nature options
The Farming with Nature Transition Scheme contains a number of options that may be suitable for farm businesses, according to the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU).
The union also added that the scheme must deliver "practical, accessible and worthwhile support" for farmers who are taking environmental action on their farms.
The 2026 scheme is is now open for applications, and will close at 5:00p.m on July 31.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has indicated that the application window will not be extended.
The Farming with Nature Transition Scheme forms part of the DAERA's Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP).
According to UFU environment chair Ian Buchanan, scheme options potentially suitable to farmers include: hedgerow planting; riparian buffer strips; farmland tree planting; herbal leys; arable margins; multi-species winter cover crops; and retention of winter stubbles.
Buchanan said: “Farmers are already central to managing and protecting the countryside.
"Many of the options within Farming with Nature can deliver both farm and environmental benefits when they are properly designed, fairly funded and workable within active farming systems.
“Although the timing for some measures is not ideal, there are some positive changes to the 2026 scheme, including the removal of the previous minimum spend requirement, an increase in the maximum spend to £20,000, and the addition of new options."
According to Buchanan, the changes should help make the scheme more accessible to a wider range of farm businesses.
Updates
The UFU is encouraging farmers to study the updated scheme information carefully before applying, as there have been changes to the specifications from last year. Buchanan said: “Farmers should take time to look closely at the updated specifications, payment rates, management requirements and watch information videos before committing.
“These schemes can involve longer-term obligations, so it is important that farmers are clear on what is expected and whether the options genuinely suit their business.
“The success of Farming with Nature will depend on farmer confidence.”
He added that DAERA must provide clear guidance, issue letters of offer promptly, and ensure inspections and compliance requirements are fair, proportionate, and clearly understood from the outset.The UFU said environmental schemes must support productive agriculture, not displace it. Buchanan said: “Farmers are willing to play their part in delivering environmental outcomes, but schemes must be built around real farming systems, realistic costs and practical delivery."
