Support for farmers affected by flooding extended
In view of the recent flooding, the cross compliance standard restricting mechanical operations on waterlogged soil was suspended nationwide until 10 September 2007.
Minister for Sustainable Food, Farming and Animal Health, Jeff Rooker, has announced that from 11 September farmers still affected by waterlogging can apply for an individual exemption to the standard. Exemptions may be granted to last until 30 September.
Applications for an exemption should be made to the Rural Payments Agency by contacting the RPA Customer Service Centre on 0845 603 7777 (open weekdays 8.30am to 5.00pm) or by email on csc@rpa.gsi.gov.uk. RPA aim to respond within one working day.
Applications will be assessed on the basis of basic information provided by the farmer, including the reason he/she needs to access the land. Exemptions will be granted primarily to allow for the completion of harvest, although other exceptional circumstances (e.g. environmental reasons such as the removal of detritus or remedial and restorative actions) will be considered.
Farmers will not be exempt from the Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition standard, GAEC 3, for the purposes of preparing the land for next year’s crops.
Farmers will need to observe the conditions attached to any exemption, including updating their Soil Protection Review with the details of any resultant issues and problems, and taking any remedial action as soon as practicable.
Further information
Page published: 11 September 2007