A new electronic tool has been launched for advisers and agronomists which demonstrates how the Campaign for the Farmed Environment makes economic sound sense, compared to the regulatory alternative.
The CFE was developed by the industry to fend off a compulsory requirement that would have seen all farmers with cultivated land in England having to adopt environmental management options on up to six per cent of it. That requirement would have been in addition to any work they had already completed through agri-environment agreements – and we argued it would have resulted in inspections, penalties and significant administrative overheads.
The new CFE cost calculator shows just what the alternative might have meant, clearly demonstrating the economic benefits of 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 CFE. 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 this time of year crucial cropping decisions are being made and advisers and agronomists will be able to use the new tool to demonstrate that voluntary management, through both ELS and CFE options, benefits both the environment and the farm businesses. The CFE 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.
Advisers and agronomists can request a personal copy of the cost calculator from the campaign office by emailing http://cfeonline@nfu.org.uk or calling 024 7685 8607.
Find out more about the Campaign for the Farmed Environment and its partner organisations here
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