@lcollas I've done this survey before.
In short, there are a few reasons I wouldn't choose certain options;
In short, there are a few reasons I wouldn't choose certain options;
- Payment rates suggested do not always cover profit foregone. Concentrating overheads on a smaller area of cropping would have a detrimental effect
- Some options are not possible here. I'm on chalk downland where wet grassland is physically impossible. I'm also not allowed to plant trees as it is prohibited in my tenancy agreement. Allowing scrub to develop is also not permitted though I'm sure a chat with my landlord might be productive, though they would no doubt realise the value of that and attempt to capture much of the financial benefit.
- I'm reluctant to commit for any duration beyond 10 years. That's at least 2 parliaments for a start! It would also make me unable to change farm policy/structure. I appreciate that options like arable reversion would be 10 years+ and on past experience, be permanent due to the goal posts being moved - create something environmentally "interesting" and I fully expect the land use to be restricted beyond the lifespan of any agreements.