The Welsh government has today (Thursday, May 25) announced higher payments rates for farmers that create woodland.
It is calling on farmers in Wales to help tackle the climate emergency by planting trees, and hopes the higher payment rates will incentivise them to do so.
The payment rates will be uplifted to pay 100% of 2023’s actual costs as part of the Welsh government’s drive to plant 86 million trees by the end of the decade.
Climate Change Minister, Julie James, said trees are a lifeline in the climate emergency and, by planting trees, greenhouse gases will be removed from the atmosphere through carbon storage.
“Earlier this year, we spoke to the farming and forestry sectors to better understand potential blockers to woodland creation,” she said.
“Payment rates were an issue; we listened and are very pleased to confirm a substantial uplift today – we will now keep the rates under review, particularly while inflation remains high.”
Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said the Welsh government wants to work with farmers on the principle of “the right tree in the right place”.
“Planting trees can also become an asset over time – such as by providing shelter for livestock or income from the timber,” she said.
“Funding is available now and the higher rates should make it a more attractive proposition to farmers.
“We would encourage farmers throughout Wales to take advantage of the support now both in terms of funding and guidance, so we can all play our part in tackling the nature and climate emergencies, and help secure the sustainable future for the industry.”
Woodland creation grant
The Woodland Creation Grant scheme requires a Woodland Creation Plan in advance.
The scheme offers funding as follows:
- Tree planting including a new native biodiversity option planting at 1,100 trees/ha;
- Fencing at an increased rate from £3.48/metre to £5.56/metre;
- 12 years of maintenance and premium payments;
- Gates for access and to maintain the tree planting;
- No loss of Basic Payment Scheme (BPS).
