I feel like I say this every time… but at last! More info on CAP reform! A new booklet has been released, you can read the whole thing here:
Click to access cap-reform-october-2014-update.pdf
Some summary points:
As ever, this is not formal advice and if you are unsure on any areas of CAP reform, please seek professional advice
• Dual use is going to continue for existing Environmental Stewardship Schemes
• Land with solar panels will not be eligible, includes small scale in field and requires the area to be fenced off and deducted from the claimed area, you can read more about this in my last blog here: https://blondeagadvisor.wordpress.com/2014/10/21/subsidies-for-solar-farms-to-be-cut-to-help-safeguard-farmland/
• Defra are working on a hedge cutting derogation for August trimming when followed by some crops (OSR and TG)
• Soil protection is focussed on management rather than record keeping
• Minimum area for crop diversification and EFA is 0.01ha (10m x 10m)
• Margins next to watercourses can be used for 1m of buffer strip and x metres of fallow providing the two are distinguishable. I. e a six metre margin can be used as a 1m buffer and 5m margin as long as you can tell them apart- best to seek advice on this one…
• Fallow land – can use pesticides to control weeds, and carry out drainage work, and make hay after 30 June
• Active Farmer Test needs to be considered, especially for equestrian enterprises
• CAPIS – SPS applicants will be sent a registration pack between now and early 2015 – once you get this you will need to get registered on the online system. This is not the same as the current online RPA system- everyone will need to re-register!
Do get in touch if you have any questions about any areas of CAP reform!
Blonde Ag Advisor 
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