Plantlife International’s Post

Both farmers and grasslands in Wales are under huge pressures, something the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) is trying to address.  If done well, the SFS has a brilliant opportunity to benefit farming, nature and biodiversity in Wales. We support the ambitions of the scheme, but recognise that it is not perfect.  It has to work practically for farmers and nature – and farmers must be paid properly for this important work.  The scheme requires 10% of land to be habitat, which includes species-rich grassland. This special habitat can be part of livestock farming, whilst locking in carbon and supporting biodiversity. We believe farmers can have productive farmland and make space for nature at the same time – it doesn’t need to be either/or.  We understand why this is a difficult time for farmers, with significant changes and uncertainties. And we will continue to work with farmers to help them manage land which is productive and at the same time delivers for nature and climate. As the SFS consultation comes to a close in one day (7th March), we urge farmers to research the proposals and respond.  Respond here 👉 https://lnkd.in/eDy4Q2Hf In the 20th century, an estimated 90% of Wales’ lowland semi-natural grassland was lost. It is crucial that we manage and restore these species-rich grasslands so they can help tackle climate change, boost biodiversity and support sustainable food production.  That’s why we’re calling for the Welsh government to take a strategic approach to grasslands. This means supporting farmers and land managers, through public and private funding opportunities, in low-carbon, nature-friendly farming.

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Rosie Wood

Board member, contributor, scribbler, speaker. Sometimes blunt. Not polishing my credentials for any more govt roles.

9mo

"90% of the semi wild grasslands" lost in the 20th century. Previously created by mass clearances of woodland, people and land drainage to make way for sheep..... We need to restore much more woodland pasture and restore farmland ponds so livestock have access to water year round.

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