On Wednesday, the Welsh government issued more information on its Glastir Organic scheme, and confirmed the start date for expressions of interest

The £1.5 million scheme is open to organic farmers who deliver “positive environmental land management” in Wales, which has the largest share of organically farmed land in the UK. 

Timings are set to be tight for applications to the upcoming scheme. Rural Affairs secretary Lesley Griffiths confirmed that the scheme will open to expressions of interest on 17th October this year. The deadline for expressions of interest will be 4th November. This means that, for new contracts to start on 1st January 2017, there will need to be a very fast turn-around of contracts so speedy responses will be necessary.

On Wednesday, The Cabinet Secretary said, “I am pleased to announce the new expression of interest window for the Glastir Organic scheme. Organic farming has an important role to play in the future of our agricultural sector in Wales and supports our ambition for a greener economy. Organic status can also add value to our products as consumer demand for sustainable and responsibly produced food and drink increases.

“I would urge those currently farming organically or with an interest in converting to take advantage of this scheme.”
 
Commenting on the announcement, Tim Bevan, farm business advisor at the Soil Association said, “There has been much uncertainty over the Glastir Organic payments so we are relieved that the window will shortly be opening.
 
“There are clear opportunities for organic farming – the organic market is in the fourth year of sustained growth and there are good prices for organic if you pitch your offer right. Soil Association Certification offers comprehensive guidance throughout the two year conversion period, with a Certification Officer for each new licensee and exclusive insight into the market and business opportunities. We advise all farmers looking to convert to organic, or add land to their existing agreements, to be extra vigilant in the next few weeks.”
 
The scheme will be open to new organic conversions and to existing contract holders who wish to bring extra land into their agreements. Applicants must read the Glastir Organic Rules Booklet before making their application. Expressions of Interest must be submitted through RPW Online. Any producers not yet registered with RPW Online who do not have an activation code should call the Customer Contact Centre on 0300 062 5004 as soon as possible.
 
The final details under the scheme and final timetable should be confirmed here.

**Update 15:00 Wednesday 28th September - Welsh government confirms scheme window**