Important Clarification on Insured Set Aside

Farmers should have received a copy of the Set Aside Handbook and Guidance for England 2007 Update. An important part of this is clarification in respect of management of land being used as "insured set aside".

The booklet clarifies some important management requirements of land being used for "insured set aside" and in particular such land still has to meet the requirements of GAEC 12 and 14. The main area of clarification which will be of interest to farmers in Southern England is the important requirement that where land is being managed under GAEC 12 vegetation cannot be cut between 1 March and 31 July.

Andrew Bays of Bays Curry McCowen (BCM) comments "farmers and landowners need to be very aware of these subtle differences between set aside and "insured set aside". It is always good practice to try and include an element of extra set aside should any problems arise elsewhere, but it is important that the ramifications of the management of this extra land are fully understood".

For further information contact Andrew Bays at BCM on 01962 763900 or by e mail at abays@bcm.co.uk