Following the closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme, there are still funding opportunities available for some farming businesses within certain Wessex Water catchment areas.
Wessex Water is working with farmers in the River Tone, Parrett, Yeo and Stour sub-catchments to reduce phosphorus (P) runoff by three tonnes per year by 2025. This initiative complements Wessex Water’s investment in phosphorus removal systems at water recycling centres. Their aim is to improve river water quality by addressing both wastewater and agricultural sources of phosphorus.
Available funding
The scheme offers grants and advice for practices that reduce phosphorus inputs, prevent soil erosion, and buffer watercourses, including:
- Cover crops after combinable crops and maize
- Undersowing grass into maize
- Arable reversion to various grass types and herbal ley
- Establishing watercourse buffer strips
- Watercourse fencing to exclude livestock
- Grassland subsoiling
Habitat creation funding
There is also support for creating runoff ponds, sediment traps, constructed wetlands, cross-slope hedgerows, and riparian tree planting.
Coordination with other schemes
Double-funding with other land-management schemes is not permitted. Please contact AssetSphere for eligibility queries.
Application process
- Check eligibility of your measure location
- Read measure specifications
- Contact the team for advice
- Submit the application form
- Receive and sign the project agreement if approved
Post-approval requirements
Successful applicants must implement the option, send evidence of implementation, and invoice for payment.
Project agreements
General terms apply, with specific conditions outlined in the option specifications. Compliance with relevant legislation is required.