The government has increased access for farmers and landowners to receive woodland creation grants, now available all year round.
Applications are now being accepted for the latest round of the Countryside Stewardship Woodland Creation Grant.
The scheme provides up to £6,800 per hectare to help farmers and landowners tap into the environmental and financial benefits of tree planting.
In a drive to encourage more projects to come forward and give applicants longer to prepare, the funding will now be available twelve months a year – replacing a previously time-limited application window.
The extension supports the government’s commitment to plant 11 million trees.
Defra's Environment Minister, Thérèse Coffey said: "By planting more trees and creating new woodlands, landowners in England can help to protect and enhance the environment now and for future generations.
"I look forward to seeing as many applications as possible come forward in support of our continued drive to grow woodland cover."
The Countryside Stewardship Woodland Creation Grant is a capital grant, where applicants can apply for one-off payments for the trees which will be planted and associated infrastructure.
A number of improvements have been made to the scheme, including streamlining the application process and improving guidance for farmers looking to capitalise on the benefits offered.
This scheme forms part of ongoing efforts to grow woodland cover. It includes funding towards the creation of the Northern Forest and the appointment of a Tree Champion to drive forward commitments around tree planting and conservation.
