Graziers running short of keep this summer can now apply for adjustments to a range of stewardship options through the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) review process, the National Sheep Association (NSA) can reveal.

Localised dry conditions have led to severe forage concerns in parts of the UK in recent weeks, prompting sheep farmers to query whether options could be grazed under derogation.

RPA has now responded to a letter sent from NSA earlier this month that requested a temporary derogation for grazing certain environmental land options that are part of the Countryside Stewardship scheme.

RPA has confirmed this will be possible if approved on a case-by-case basis.

There are two routes for farmers to take, completing a request form for the scheme they require the derogation from, the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) or Countryside and Environmental Stewardship.

NSA Policy Manager Michael Priestley says that the early spring meant flowering options had already gone to seed, so many graziers believed there would be little detrimental impact to option outcomes. Dates on some SFI grazing options are 15th August, and the season is a month early due to warm weather anyway, he adds.

“This summer seems to be characterised by very localised extremely dry conditions,” says Michael. “Many people have now had rain in the past few weeks, but those on light land or those that have kept missing it are facing severe challenges.”

To manage a lack of available grazing this summer some farmers have been forced to wean early or sell lambs as stores as a strategy to manage ewe body condition and reduce dry matter demand on the farm. Others simply haven’t got anywhere to wean lambs to.

Michael continues: “Hopefully, graziers can work with neighbours to arrange derogations to graze and cut to keep condition on ewes. It’s been an early season anyway, so there is a strong argument to bring the date forward regardless.

“The grazing and dunging action will provide ecology benefits, and the sheep will spread seeds in their dung and create a more varied habitat for wildlife and insects. Let’s hope RPA officials can see the genuine need for flexibility.”

Farmers wishing to apply for the derogation should click here for SFI form  and here for the MTA  form