I'm getting the impression that this forum's experience of CS is generally negative.
I'm taking over a neighbouring farm that has about 20Ha of traditional orchards.
My question is- would I be wise if I put them into a CS Mid Tier agreement? (£200 per Ha)
As far as management is concerned, it would be money for nothing- the chap who (kind of) farms them doesn't use sprays or fertiliser.
The only downside (beyond the admin) is the fear that the orchards (already a 'BAP Priority Habitat') might suddenly become protected and I wouldn't be able to get rid of them and have 'vacant possession' of the land.
Is that a genuine risk?
I'm taking over a neighbouring farm that has about 20Ha of traditional orchards.
My question is- would I be wise if I put them into a CS Mid Tier agreement? (£200 per Ha)
As far as management is concerned, it would be money for nothing- the chap who (kind of) farms them doesn't use sprays or fertiliser.
The only downside (beyond the admin) is the fear that the orchards (already a 'BAP Priority Habitat') might suddenly become protected and I wouldn't be able to get rid of them and have 'vacant possession' of the land.
Is that a genuine risk?