New measures announced to the Forestry Grant Scheme
Speaking at the SLE and Scottish Forestry reception on ‘Integrating Trees on Farm’ on our stand at the Royal Highland Show, Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon announced four new measures to the Forestry Grant Scheme:
1) An increase of 50% to the grant rate
2) Lowering the minimum number of trees required to qualify for funding
3) Making money available for fruit and nut trees to encourage agroforestry
4) Making money available for increased tree protection.
We have engaged with the Trees on Farm Network to ensure the support for trees develops to deliver opportunities for farmers to make the most of the grants available.
We previously highlighted the need for an increase to the grant scheme rates in its response to the Forestry Grant Scheme consultation that closed on 17 May. We also raised the importance of flexibility in schemes, including the minimum tree rate to make trees more accessible for farmers.
Additional support for fruit and trees provides an excellent opportunity for farmers to consider agroforestry in their system.
Increased options for tree protection will also help farmers to integrate livestock with trees.
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