An update on SFI Moorland

We are uploading this news item given the recent developments regarding the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and particularly around SFI Moorland. As you may be aware there has been announcement from Defra and the RPA that the new date for SFI23 applications is the 18th September. Whilst this is later than the August timeline initially proposed we are happy to hear that there is now finally a date.  

There have been some developments that affect Common Land so we have put together a FAQ that can be found on our website at SFI Moorland and as a news item and these outline the changes below. Non common moorland is not affected and will be able to apply via the rural payment's website. If you are a non common, please still read the rest of this post as there is still important information for you. 

For Commons the RPA computer system will not be able to provide an on-line application process as the RPA has not yet included the required functionality. They expect the computer system to be upgraded in early 2024. In the interim the RPA is proposing an off line application process for common land. Whilst this is a step back from the proposed simple sign-up process that was advertised, we are committed as a charity to help successful applications to SFI Moorland.   

We are meeting with Defra and the RPA regularly to work on this issue and to emphasize the need for a functional system for all so common land isn’t disadvantaged. We will work with whatever mechanism there is to assist access to SFI Moorland and secure funds money for those who manage these iconic places.  

We want SFI Moorland to be a success country wide for both common and non-common land. Having better quality data about the land you manage can only be a good thing and this SFI Moorland scheme is the foundation stone to new ELM schemes.  

‘‘If you’re interested in applying for SFI this year on common land, please email RPA at ruralpayments@defra.gov.uk with ‘SFI 2023 Commons/Shared Grazing Agreements’ in your subject line’’. Please see Applying for an SFI agreement on gov.uk. If you are on a non common please login to the Rural Payments service to begin your application.

FCL’s Digital Moorland Surveying App 

As a reminder we have launched our SFI Moorland Digital Surveying Tool and we are happy to say that we have already helped several people complete their surveying with many others currently in the process of gathering their data. Fortunately, all is still working well with the Digital App. Once you have an agreement, we will be able to get you up and running quickly. If you are in SFI22 and need help please get in contact as these individuals are our current main focus due to their time pressure.  

We have the service open for both common and non-common land and if you are interested in using the service especially once you have your agreement after the 18th September, please fill out the following form. You can also register interest in advance to learn about the process. Click here  Register your interest in the FCL SFI Moorland Digital Service.. If you are interested in setting up a demo area or trial please also fill this in, we have helped facilitate several of these already.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at sfi@foundationforcommonland.org.uk. 

Kind regards, 

Tom Lawrence: SFI Moorland Digital App Coordinator