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Helping Rural Businesses Thrive |
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We start another month with muddy boots and soggy soils, but the days are drawing out with the promise spring isn’t too far away.
Last week, the Hub team hosted Keith Halsted the Executive Director of the Royal Countryside Fund to hear about RCF’s plans for 2025 and the opportunities to continue their work with us in Herefordshire. Since 2022 RCF have supported us through their Farm Support Group programme, by supporting our core costs their grant has provided us with an incredible opportunity to develop and transform the Hub over the last 3 years. As a result we can now offer a wider range of advice, support and services to you all, on a far greater range of topics and issues.
Onwards and upwards for February! |
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| CSF Farming and the Environment in 2025: An update for Agents & Advisors
Mon 3rd Feb
9am to 12pm
Ledbury Rugby Club, HR8 2LP
More information click here |
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| AHDB Hereford Monitor Farm - My problems with nitrogen and phosphorus
Thurs 6th Feb
11am to 3pmGarnstone Farms, The Estate Office, Ledgemoor, Weobley, Hereford, HR4 8QH Click here for more info & to book |
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| HgS - Final Winter Meeting - Dairy Farming with Green Credentials- Tim Downes
Tues 18th Feb
6:30pm to 10pm
The Grange, Leominster, HR6 8NL . Free Event No Booking Required.
More information click here |
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| Herefordshire Meadows - Annual Forum - Meadows, Trees and more - Building biodiversity & resilience
Sat 22nd Feb
10am to 2pm
Withington Village Hall, HR1 3PP
Click here for more info & to book |
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| | WAFM Mental Health Awareness Workshop
Wed 26th Feb
9:30am to 12:30pm & 1:30pm to 4:30pm
Mortimer Vets, Unit 7 Northern Lights Business Park, Leominster HR6 0SW
Click here for more info & to book |
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Feedback sought on the
Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project.
Herefordshire Rural Hub are currently working with 50 landholdings across 5000 hectares of agricultural land alongside the Rivers Wye & Lugg through DEFRA’s Landscape Recovery scheme. As well as working together to adapt land management in the floodplain, the participating land managers have the opportunity to enhance access within the project area.
The project team would like to hear views of the people living near the Rivers Wye and Lugg between Leominster and Symonds Yat, and all those with an active interest in these rivers and the adjacent countryside.
To read more information, give your views, offer your ideas and insights, or to raise any concerns you might have, please complete the anonymous online survey: Wyescapes Stakeholder Survey - Herefordshire Rural Hub |
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Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust - Big Farmland Bird Count 2025: 7-23 February.The Big Farmland Bird Count is an annual event that encourages farmers and land managers to record the bird species and numbers on their farms.
The count aims to raise awareness of the crucial role that individuals play in supporting our farmland birds, and to assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts on farms and estates. By dedicating just 30 minutes of your time, you can contribute to the monitoring program that provides valuable insights into the state of our countryside.
Your observations will help researchers and conservationists understand the challenges facing these birds and the impact of their work. Together, we can work towards ensuring the survival and thriving of these important species for future generations to enjoy. Join the count today and make a difference in the conservation of our farmland birds.
It is easy to take part and get involved, to find out more information please click here. |
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Fighting Cancer in Herefordshire - QuestionnairePeople living in rural areas who have cancer are often diagnosed at a later stage than those in urban locations, meaning they are less likely to survive. Skin cancer and prostate cancer are higher among farmers, and there is a greater risk of exposure to harmful substances and carcinogens. That’s why Herefordshire & Worcestershire ICS & NHS want to know what they can do to reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill. They have access to funding to support new ways of working and to deliver services differently, so they want to learn what would make it easier for you and your family to access screening and reduce the number of avoidable cancers in the farming community. Who is the questionnaire for? Herefordshire & Worcestershire ICS & NHS are keen to hear from anyone living in Herefordshire, who live and/or work in rural and farming communities. Deadline- Please complete the questionnaire by 28 February 2025. How will use your feedback – All responses will be anonymous. NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) will collate and store the answers that you give. They will publish the anonymous findings to their website and will also share with their partners (including Macmillan). Personal identifying information will not appear in any publications resulting from this survey. Your anonymous quotes may be used in this, and other relevant ICB reports. Herefordshire & Worcestershire ICS & NHS would ask you to take 5 minutes from your day and complete their questionnaire, your feedback will be used to help shape future services. |
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Investigating the Mental Health Impacts on Farmers & Farm Workers from Floods and Drought Survey |
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The survey aims to gather data on the psychological toll that extreme weather events can take on those working in agriculture, and to identify areas where more support and resources may be needed. If you are a farmer or farm worker in England, your participation in this survey is crucial to help fill the evidence gap and ensure that policies and programs are developed to better support the mental health of those in the agricultural industry. The deadline to participate is 28 February, so please take a few moments to share your experiences and make your voice heard. Together, we can work towards a healthier and more resilient farming community. |
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Bluetongue UpdateThe total number of bluetongue cases in England and Wales is currently 198. Due to the drop in temperature and reduced midge activity, the UK's Chief Veterinary Officer confirmed the UK is in the seasonally vector low period for bluetongue virus. This came into effect from 12 noon on 21 January. As a result, some restrictions currently in place to mitigate disease spread have been eased. To view Defra's restricted zone please check their interactive map by clicking hereFarmers are urged to be vigilant when undertaking movements from any of the above locations, monitor for any signs of the disease and report any suspected cases to APHA immediately. Find latest updates and guidance from DEFRA please click here |
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| | Avian influenza - Essential InformationCases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) are increasing in both kept poultry and wild birds across areas of Great Britain. There has been a confirmed case on a commercial poultry unit near Wem, Shropshire on the 25th January. To prevent further spread of disease, DEFRA are extending the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone ( AIPZ) to include York, North Yorkshire & Shropshire. East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk were all ready within the zone. To find out which measures apply to you and your kept birds, check the DEFRA interactive map and read the AIPZ declaration schedule relevant to your area. If you suspect bird flu in poultry or other captive birds, you must report it immediately: England – call 03000 200 301or Wales – call 03003 038 268 To keep up to date with the latest updates and guidance from DEFRA please click here |
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Free support available from the Hub to complete a Whole Farm Nutrient Balance
Ever read the headlines about nutrient overload of the Wye and wondered how it relates to your farm? If you bring any livestock feed, fertiliser or manures on to your holding, completing a Nutrient Balance could provide you with those answers.
The Hub team can provide free confidential 1:1 support to undertake a nutrient balance calculation for your business, identify opportunities to reduce your nutrient load and answer any questions you might have. |
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Farming with Nature
Herefordshire Wildlife Trust have a small expert team that can provide advice and support on:
- Land Management
- Natural Asset Reviews & Farm Plans
- ELM Advice and Applications
- Peer to Peer Knowledge Exchange
- Conservation Project Management
- Wildlife and Survey Monitoring
- Natural Flood Management
- Watercourses
- Pond Creation and Management
- Environmental Regulation Compliance
- Woodland management.
To find out more click here. |
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| | Species-Rich Grassland: Advisory Services from Herefordshire Meadows
Herefordshire Meadows offer several charged services for landowners:
- Advice & guidance regarding management or restoration of species-rich grassland.
- Grassland assessment for suitability of SFI options for livestock, soil health, flood and drought resilience and biodiversity.
- Grassland surveys e.g. assessing suitability for GRH6 option.
- Guidance regarding permanent grassland, floodplain and cultivated land.
Visit the website to find out more, including current availability of funding for capital works or other free services. |
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The Wye & Usk Foundation delivering the WVNL Advice ProjectThe Wye & Usk Foundation, through the Wye Valley National Landscapes Advice Project,
are currently able to offer free SFI Advice to farmers with land within the AONB. For further information please contact Lucinda Lewis, Senior Catchment Advisor. |
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The Jack Hughes Fund supports the cost of training for members of Herefordshire’s farming community.
“The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay” Henry Ford |
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Who was Jack Hughes?
Jack Hughes was the late founder of the Herefordshire Proficiency Test Committee (HPTC). Jack Hughes did much to ensure that training was available to the county’s farming community, particularly in relation to young farmers.
How much funding can I claim?
The Jack Hughes Fund will fund 70% of the cost of training up to a maximum of £200.
Are there any limitations?
Applicants must live in Herefordshire. Funding is limited to two applications per annum from a family farming business. Applicants must be over 18 years. Applications must be received and approved before you attend your course.
How do I apply?
The Jack Hughes Fund is managed by the Herefordshire Community Foundation for an application form you need to go to their website: Click Here |
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Apprenticeships, Training &
Short Courses availableRural Apprenticeships available, based at Holme Lacy campus include: - Animal care & welfare
- Farm Worker
- Forestry & arboriculture
- Welding
- Farriery
For more details click here or for enquiries click here.Training & short courses available throughout the year for: - Felling & processing trees
- Safe use of pesticides
- Tractor Driving
- Welding, metal work & fabrication
- Blacksmithing
- Chainsaw maintenance
For full course details click here or for enquiries click here. |
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| | Agriculture Health and Safety:
How to Meet Your Legal Responsibilities (E-Learning)
If you control or manage a farm, you are legally responsible for your safety and that of your employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by your work.
The course consists of 8 modules, covering topics such as falls from height, falling objects, livestock, vehicles, children, electricity, and drowning and asphyxiation.
This will help farmers understand the legal responsibilities for their safety and that of their employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by their work. It will also help farmers identify and manage safety risks.
The E-Learning course consists of training only and a Certificate of Attendance will be available to download and print upon successful completion.
Enrol on this FREE E-learning course click here. |
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Guidance now available for improved Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier offerThe revamped Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) scheme is now being introduced, with the RPA offering priority pre-application advice to selected groups prior to the scheme's full launch. - Those with expiring end of 2025 CSHT agreements
- Approved woodland management plans
- A Plan in place, ready-to-develop applications
It is essential to consult with Natural England or the Forestry Commission for pre-application advice before submitting an application. For those not falling under the mentioned categories, further information on how to get in touch with the RPA will be provided in February. This new and improved scheme aims to support sustainable land management practices and conservation efforts across the countryside. To watch the webinar that DEFRA hosted in January please click here , for more information on applying please click here |
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DEFRA - Capital Grants Update
Defra's Capital grant applications still remain closed with no update to when this may change.It has been said that "all agreements that have already been signed will be met, with further funding prioritised to help build a sustainable farming sector". |
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Animal Health and Welfare Pathway
Support is now available as part of a single service called ‘Get funding to improve animal health and welfare’. There are two parts to this service:
1. The animal health and welfare review (previously the Annual Health and Welfare Review) and
2. A separate endemic disease follow-up visit that offers access to further advice and disease testing, building on the review visit.
From 2024 to 2027 farmers can have up to three review and three endemics follow-up visits . This aims to provide consistent access to support over a number of years which is important because changes to management is never a ‘once and done’ job. The challenges faced can change from year to year, so access to regular vet visits through this service aims to ensure the advice available is up to date and reflects circumstances on the farm that year.
If you’d like to learn more about how to apply please click here. |
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| | Funding and Grants for Agroforestry
Now is the perfect time to explore the potential benefits of agroforestry for your farming operation. With more support available than ever before for implementing and managing agroforestry practices, there are numerous opportunities to improve the sustainability and productivity of your land. From increasing tree densities to integrating trees into your fields, there are a variety of actions you can take to incorporate agroforestry into your farming enterprise. If you’re considering applying for an in-field agroforestry offer, here are five tips to help you successfully navigate the process and harness the positive impacts of incorporating trees into your farm.
- Check whether you are in a sensitive area for tree planting
- Make use of the agroforestry plan capital item (PA4)
- Consider tree species suitability
- Consider whether you require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Choose the right tree guard.
For more information, and to learn how to apply please click here
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Sustainable Farming Incentive Updates
Applications for the SFI 2024 actions are open.
In early August DEFRA advised of changes to the way in which agreement holders can add or upgrade options to existing SFI agreements. DEFRA's current position is "To add more SFI actions and land you should apply for a separate SFI agreement". This is a disappointing back track from the high level of flexibility promised at the launch of the scheme.
The full scheme guidance and payment rates for SFI are available here.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive offer now comprises of 102 actions:
- 22 of the existing actions from the 2023 SFI offer
- 57 improved actions previously offered through CS Mid Tier, and
- 23 new actions, including on precision farming, moorland, flood and water management, agroforestry and no till
DEFRA have created an online search tool to help farmers identify which actions they would like to apply for: Find Funding For Farms Online Tool |
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| | Kate Speke-Adams -
Hub Managing Director
For details about our projects & opportunities to work with us click here. |
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| | | | Sarah Starkey -
Hub Farm Resilience Project Manager
For info about any of our resilience projects click here. |
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| | Victoria Stanton-Humphreys -
Hub Finance Officer
For queries about finance & invoicing
click here. |
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| | | | Livy Braid -
Hub Farm Resilience Project Coordinator
For info about our Farm for the Future resilience project with Royal Countryside Fund click here. |
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| | Rhia Bell -
Hub Administrator
For info about our events, newsletter & partnerships with Hereford Grassland
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| | | | Dan Smith -
Hub Farm Facilitator
For advice & support on nutrient management, grassland management or to share potential event topics click here. |
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| | Max Eckert -
Hub Wyescapes Programme Manager
For information about our Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project click here. |
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| | | | Jennie Hermolle -
Hub Wyescapes Engagement & Communications Manager
For information about our Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project click here |
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To advertise events, services, training and job opportunities with us click here.
Deadline for print copy 24th of each month. |
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| | We're proud to be part of the
Royal Countryside Fund's
Farm Support Group Initiative |
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Disclaimer The Herefordshire Rural Hub accepts no liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss arising from any action taken in reliance on the information contained. |
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Herefordshire Rural Hub,
Agriculture House, Beech Business Park,
Tillington Road, Hereford
HR4 9QJ
Tel: 01432 268428
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