Severn Trent is urging growers to submit applications for the Severn Trent Environmental Protection Scheme (STEPS) grant ahead of the November 30 deadline to ensure that all funded projects are completed this year.
Growers in priority catchments can apply for funding to reduce the risk of water pollution and protect the environment, while also supporting efficiencies on farm.
More than 2,300 grants have been awarded over the last decade, including applications for equipment and land management improvements. Some of the most popular options have been herbal leys, in-field washdown kits, precision farming equipment, livestock fencing, and cover crops.
Unlike in previous years, Severn Trent is warning growers that all 2024 STEPS projects must be completed and claimed by the end of the year.
On-farm success
Stuart Heath, a dairy farmer in Staffordshire, has been using the STEPS grant to future-proof his business since the scheme started.
“Early on, we used the funding to help purchase slurry pumping equipment – an umbilical kit, flow meter and a dribble bar – to get us up and running with applying slurry more accurately and avoid needing to take heavy machinery across the fields. This helps prevent structural damage to the soils.
“We’ve since used STEPS funding to concrete a high-traffic areas between the main cow shed and the silage clamp, which has been really beneficial – it’s become a lot easier to clean up and keep the yards tidy, meaning there’s less dirty water runoff.
“We’ve also put in tracking to enable cows to travel to rotational grazing pastures without poaching the ground.”
He adds: “The grants have enabled us to bring forward some our investment ideas, making them happen sooner than we’d realistically be able to do on our own.”
“It’s essential we look after the environment for the next generation, so I’d encourage any farmers to have a chat with their local agricultural advisor to find out about the funding options.”