19.07.06
Farm environment link project

The Cornwall FWAG 'Farm Environment Link' Project is celebrating the report from the mid-term evaluation that they commissioned to be done by Cumulus Consultants. Having received investment from Objective One EAGGF fund, Defra, The Environment Agency and Cornwall County Council, this project set out to work with farmers across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly looking at soils, nutrients, water, energy and biodiversity and how they can impact on the economics of the farm business.

Says Project Development Manager, Jillie Dale: "We are very pleased with the outcome of this report. It is very positive with good feedback from both the participating farmers and the funding bodies. Another positive feature is that it highlights areas where we can make minor improvements to ensure that the project fully delivers and even exceeds the aims set out at the start of the Project."

Farmer survey opinion stated:

Stakeholders too were very pleased with the project with comments such as "In summary it's been good. Good uptake and it's delivered real tangible benefits on the ground."

Other comments included: "Very good, 4 out of 5. Has achieved 15.72% of the Objective One measure output with 1.54% of expenditure."

In conclusion, FELP is delivering extremely well on its aims to enhance the economic sustainability of Cornish agricultural holdings by advising on the economic opportunities achievable through environmental measures.

Listed amongst the many strengths is the comment that 'Farmers' awareness of environmental issues has been raised. This includes those issues which are now becoming very relevant and mainstream (eg soils, water and energy). Says Jillie: "With all the changes coming on stream for agriculture both in recent months and also those due to come in, such as the Water Framework Directive and the Agricultural Waste Directive, it has been brilliant to have the opportunity to work with Cornish farmers and help them to look at the environment as a different asset within the farming business and work together towards a sustainable future for both the farming community and the environment."

There is a strong desire for the FELP model to be continued beyond the end of 2006 with one respondent stating: "Good Project, well delivered. Need to be doing more of it."

FWAG is working hard to ensure that this will happen and the good work that has been started through the Farm Environment Link Project will continue to provide farmers with high quality, independent advice.

For further information please contact Jillie Dale of FWAG Environment Link Project, email: jillie.dale@fwag.org.uk.

The Objective One partnership for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in FWAG Environment Link Project through the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF).

Anyone considering a new horticulture, food and land based industries project is advised to speak with Martin Butler at Government Office South West on 01752 635134 before commencing development as there are now only limited funds available due to the successful uptake of funding by the agricultural sector in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Editor's notes:

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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