A new competition aimed at teaching young farmers more about the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) has been launched by farming minister Jim Paice. The campaign, a joint initiative by government, industry and conservation groups, was launched to avoid introducing mandatory regulation of the farming industry.

Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) members are tasked with developing a suitable proposal for a farm business of their choice, currently outside of any agri-environment schemes, to support the campaign and to explain how their proposals work. It will give members the opportunity to increase their knowledge of environmental management and to win some fantastic prizes.

Farming minister Jim Paice said: “I hope many young farmers put themselves forward for this competition as it’s a great opportunity for the next generation to get involved with the campaign and to help further its good work.”

It follows a similar campaign run by a Yorkshire team of coordinators earlier this year. Impressed by the success of this, the competition has been developed, along with YFC, for all members nationwide.

National CFE project coordinator Victoria Hicks, who is also an active member of young farmers in Gloucestershire, said: “Taking part in the competition can enhance your CV and by choosing a farm outside of agri-environment schemes, members have the ability to influence a farm business.”

All teams entering will receive a free bag of wild bird seed mix for their chosen farm, kindly donated by Kings Seeds. Masstock Farm Consultancy has donated prize money for the competition, along with prizes from the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) who have donated CLA student membership and tickets to the CLA Game Fair.

Any interested YFC members should visit the CFE website to register their interest at www.cfeonline.org.uk and to find all the essential information. Jim Paice will also be present at the prize giving for the competition at next year’s National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs Annual Convention in Torquay at the end of April.