Farmers creating woodlands to receive higher payment rates

Climate Change Minister Julie James and Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales Lesley Griffiths confirmed payment rates will be uplifted to pay 100% of 2023’s actual costs as part of Wales’ drive to plant 86 million trees by the end of the decade to combat the climate emergency.

Climate Change Minister Julie James said:

“We are in a climate emergency and trees are our lifeline, by planting trees it removes greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere through carbon storage.

“Earlier this year, we spoke to the farming and forestry sectors to better understand potential blockers to woodland creation.

“Payment rates were an issue; we listened and are very pleased to confirm a substantial uplift today – we will now keep the rates under review, particularly while inflation remains high.”

Lesley Griffiths, Minister for North Wales and Rural Affairs, added:

“We want to work with farmers on the principle of ‘the right tree in the right place’.

“Planting trees can also become an asset over time – such as by providing shelter for livestock or income from the timber.

“Funding is available now and the higher rates should make it a more attractive proposition to farmers.

“We would encourage farmers throughout Wales to take advantage of the support now both in terms of funding and guidance, so we can all play our part in tackling the nature and climate emergencies, and help secure the sustainable future for the industry.”

These schemes support woodland creation by farmers and land managers.

There are two types of grant available:

• Small Grants – Woodland Creation Scheme: for support to plant areas up to 2 hectares
• Woodland Creation Grants: for support to plant larger areas of woodland

The funding will help farmers get ready for the proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme. Trees planted now will count towards the universal action for tree cover on farms.

You can read more and find out how to apply here: Forestry grants | GOV.WALES