New funding round for Agri-Environment Climate Scheme – comment from Scottish Natural Heritage

Mike Cantlay said:

“It’s great that more farmers, crofters and land managers have the opportunity to apply for funding to carry out projects that  will help our environment. We particularly welcome the support it offers them to help manage their land for wildlife, as well as helping to manage the risk of flooding. 

“This scheme continues to support initiatives across Scotland.  From improving public access to  protecting the habitat for our wildlife including the capercaille, corncrake and chough.  There are also opportunities around restoration of lowland raised bogs, and supporting the management of protected sites, including machair and coastal habitats - the opportunities are both diverse and plentiful. 

“If you’ve got a proposal for a protected site, such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, come and talk to us and we will provide advice before you submit your application.”

Notes for editors

This scheme is jointly administered by SNH and The Scottish Government Rural Payments and Inspections Division.

The Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) promotes land management practices which protect and enhance Scotland's magnificent natural heritage, improve water quality, manage flood risk and mitigate and adapt to climate change. It will also help to improve public access and preserve historic sites. Further information is available at: https://www.ruralpayments.org/publicsite/futures/topics/all-schemes/agri-environment-climate-scheme/

The AECS application round announced today is open from 17 January to 13 April 2018 with a further closing date of the 31 May for collaborative applications for five or more businesses.  Applications for Improving Public Access are welcome between 19 March and 31 May 2018. 

Contact details for SNH local offices are at: https://nature.scot/about-snh/contact-us/area-offices