Currently open for applications, the Countryside Stewardship capital grant scheme is available to certain areas of England that have been identified to reduce ammonia emissions from agriculture. Within these areas, options for funding can potentially be offered for both automatic slurry scraping systems provided by grant option AQ1, alongside ammonia emission-reducing flooring for livestock buildings through option AQ2.
The provision of an automatic slurry scraping system requires the installation of a hydraulic cylinder and ratchet drive system, or a rope and chain system with an electric drive. The maximum capital funding value per passageway scraper installed is £2,760.
Available as retrofit system in existing cubical housing, low ammonia emission flooring has the potential to reduce emissions through the rapid removal of urine. Once installed by an approved provider, and with support from a Catchment Sensitive Farming Advisor (CSFA), a payment of £72 per square metre can be granted.
To improve water quality in sensitive areas, grant funding for the roofing of manure storage areas is also available under option RP28, with a funding rate of £72.50 per square metre.
Prior to commencing any work, it is important to seek advice from a local CSFA. Further information can be found online www.gov.uk/countryside-stewardship-grants
Currently, there is no provision for the funding of similar schemes in Scotland or Wales.
