Early Autumn countryside morning,Northern Ireland
The Ulster Farmers’ Union has said the Farming with Nature Transition Scheme must deliver practical, accessible and worthwhile support for farmers who are taking environmental action on their farms.
The 2026 scheme is open today and will close at 5pm on 31 July. DAERA has indicated that the application window will not be extended.
UFU environment chair Ian Buchanan said the scheme contains a number of options which may be suitable for farm businesses, including hedgerow planting, riparian buffer strips, farmland tree planting, herbal leys, arable margins, multi-species winter cover crops and retention of winter stubbles.
Mr 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. These changes should help make the scheme more accessible to a wider range of farm businesses.”
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.
Mr Buchanan continued, “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. That means 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.
Mr Buchanan concluded, “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. Farming with Nature has potential, but it must work on the ground for the farm businesses being asked to deliver it.
“We would encourage any member considering an application to read the scheme information carefully, consider which options fit their farm, and seek advice where needed before applying.”
