From 11 September 2017, livestock keepers will be able to choose between setting-up Quarantine Units (QUs) to manage their animal movements as an alternative to continuing to adhere to the current 6Day Standstill (6DSS) Rules. All keepers are being contacted to advise them of the new arrangements and to inform them of when they can apply.

The Welsh Government website has updated guidance on how to set up and apply for a QU.

Farm Business Grant guidance The Farm Business Grant (FBG) will provide farmers in Wales with a 40% contribution towards capital investments in equipment and machinery that have been pre-identified as offering clear and quantifiable benefits to farm enterprises. The minimum grant available is £3,000 and the maximum is £12,000, and only one application will be approved per business during the 4-year lifetime of the Scheme.

Applications to the first window (closed on 30 June 2017) have now been approved, with the second window opening on 2 August 2017 (until 29 September 2017). The third window is expected to open on 2 January 2018. A full list of around 70 eligible items linked to animal health, genetics and performance; crop management; energy efficiency; resource efficiency and ICT  can be seen on the Welsh Government website . Here you will also find a link to the on-line application form.

The key requirements is that  the farm must have registered with Farming Connect before submitting an application, and that a partner/director in the farming business must attend a Farming for the Future Roadshow organised by Farming Connect, as listed on the FC website. The dates for the next round of Roadshows are as follows:-

04/09/17 – Machynlleth

05/09/17- Welshpool

07/09/17 – Brecon

11/09/17- Caernarfon

12/09/17 – Mold

14/09/17 – Nantyffin

18/09/17 – Lampeter

If you would like further assistance with your application, please contact us here at CARA on 01570 471516.