Farmers are being reminded that they must complete their Soil Protection Review by 31st December. Otherwise, they risk losing out on support payments, including those under the SPS.  

In 2010 there were 80 failures under GAEC1. And while those rules cover more than just the Soil Protection Review, Failure to complete the review was the biggest single problem reported.

Of the 80 failures, 62 incurred a 5 per cent reduction in SPS and relevant agri-environment payments, five were fined between 5 per cent and 15 per cent and, in two cases, the penalty exceeded that amount.

The SPR should not be returned to the RPA or Defra, but should be kept on the farm in case of inspection.

To sort out a soil review online, click here.