SFI26 Window 2: an update
In this post we reflect on how we are looking to improve the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) offer for next year. We also share some headline figures from Window 2 of SFI26.
SFI26: Window 2 now closed
Window 2 of the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 (SFI26) has now closed. Thank you to everyone who took the time to submit an application.
SFI26: 75% of budget now allocated
Around 75% of the SFI26 Window 2 budget has been allocated, based on applications received to date.
SFI26: 50% of Window 2 budget now allocated
We can confirm that around 50% of the Window 2 budget for SFI26 has been allocated, based on applications received to date.
SFI26: 25% of Window 2 funding now allocated
Around 25% of the Window 2 budget for SFI26 has now been allocated, based on applications received so far.
SFI26: Window 2 now open
Today we are opening Window 2 of SFI26, giving all eligible farmers and land managers the opportunity to apply for funding that supports sustainable food production, environmental improvement and resilient farm businesses.
Interest in Higher Tier single-focus agreements
Posted by:
The Team, Posted on:
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Categories:
Countryside Stewardship, environmental land management schemes
Interest in Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) single-focus agreements continues to grow, with 650 expressions of interest (EOIs) received since the offer opened at the end of July. This post covers the current areas of interest and how to submit an EOI.
New drought support for farmers
Posted by:
The Team, Posted on:
-
Categories:
Drought support, environmental land management schemes, Grants
Farmers affected by extreme dry weather can now benefit from temporary flexibilities in ELM agreements, £50 million increase in SFI funding, and a new round of the Water Management Grant, set to open in Autumn.
Managing farms and land during prolonged dry weather and drought
Almost three-quarters of land in England is now in drought after experiencing record-low rainfall and unusually high temperatures. As the dry weather looks set to persist, we've gathered information and resources to help farmers and growers.
SFI26 update: 75% of Window 1 funding now allocated
75% of the Window 1 budget for SFI26 has now been allocated, based on applications received so far.
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7 October Dairy Show at The Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset.
10 October Alwinton Show at Gallow Law, Alwinton, Northumberland.
Find a list of the other shows and events we’re attending in 2026
Helping farmers access water this autumn
Drought is putting real pressure on farmers this year. The Environment Agency is giving farmers greater flexibility by letting existing abstraction licence holders start refilling their water storage reservoirs early, a month ahead of usual schedule. This temporary change runs from 1 October to 31 October.
We recognise the difficulty in getting a long duration abstraction licence and the blocker this presents to long-term investment in sustainable abstraction practices.
As part of the package announced on 1 October to support farmers to access water, the Environment Agency have made it easier for those who don’t currently have an abstraction license to apply for licences that better support long-term investment.
Full details of the changes and information on how to be compliant can be found on the Environment Agency blog.
Storing fertiliser safely
If you are ordering fertiliser for the coming season, check that it can be stored safely and securely before delivery. The action you need to take depends on the type and quantity of fertiliser.
Follow the relevant guidance to protect people, prevent contamination or deterioration, and meet the rules for storing ammonium nitrate and other substances.
Read the AIC’s guide to storing, handling & transporting ammonium nitrate and the HSE’s steps to take.
Get advice
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
Join a webinar
Livestock disease guidance
Preparing your business for the UK-EU SPS agreement
Read the new guidance to understand what the changes could mean for your business and how to prepare.
