FARMERS struggling to get to grips with Scotland's agri-environment schemes can attend a free information event later this month, where the Soil Association promises to eases their 'AECS and pains'.

Following the success of the first of its AECS events last month, SAS, in conjunction with Richard Lockett from ScotFWAG, will be running the next instalment on the afternoon of November 29, at Monzie Farm, Blair Atholl.

With the Scottish Government opening the 2018 round of AECS funding in January, now is a good time to understand the issues, challenges and practicalities of applying for and managing land under an AECS scheme.

SAS promises that the session will be practical and informative, looking at ‘win-win’ situations where agri-environmental management can benefit both wildlife and production, and showcasing a farm already operating under a scheme.

Farmers are asked to bring along their draft plans for review and Mr Lockett, independent consultant and ScotFWAG chairman, will provide tips and hints on the application process.

He said: “This is a great opportunity to hear more about AECS and have a look at a farm with a scheme in operation. Monzie Farm has a wide range of habitats including species-rich grasslands, wetlands and moorland, all of which are managed under an AECS agreement. The current agri-environment scheme, and particularly the associated grazing plans, can be complex so this is a chance to find about how to make it work for farms and wildlife.”

All the AECS events in this series are free for all farmers, and land managers – but booking is essential as numbers are limited. To reserve a place, book online or contact Jane at Soil Association Scotland on 0131 666 2474 or jdingwall@soilassociation.org.

Funding is provided through SRDP Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund, which is jointly funded by the Scottish Government and the European Union.