Nowhere is nature friendly-farming more important than in our Designated Landscapes – the three National Parks and five National Landscapes (formerly AONBs) that comprise some of the most special places in Wales. In these landscapes farmers have a vital role in protecting valuable and fragile ecosystems, and experience high visitor numbers that put pressure on rights of way, habitats and infrastructure.
In recognition of this, Welsh Government – in collaboration with the Designated Landscapes working together as Tirweddau Cymru Landscapes Wales – have developed a new agri-environment scheme: Ffermio Bro. This initiative will support farmers in adopting more nature-friendly practices and help overcome the capital investment barriers that often hinder progress on this journey.
We recognise that many farmers want to adopt more nature-friendly practices and protect habitats on their land. These practices often deliver long-term cost savings and make farms more resilient to extreme weather and flooding. We’re also aware of the growing financial pressures facing the farming community – and this is where Ffermio Bro can make a difference.
Through the scheme, funding will be available for a wide range of activities, including fencing, low-density woodland creation, footpath improvements, and peatland restoration. Projects will be encouraged to respond to local needs and do not need to conform to standard specifications. Bespoke proposals that address specific local challenges are welcomed.
Ffermio Bro is a collaborative programme designed to improve the resilience of nature on a large scale by supporting activities across multiple farms that aligns with a common theme or objective. Collaborative projects could take many forms – for example, working with farms across an entire river catchment to improve water quality.
Each Designated Landscape will have a dedicated Ffermio Bro advisor who will work hand-in-hand with farmers to develop these collaborative projects. Advisors will bring landowners together, facilitate co-operation, and assist with the paperwork to get applications over the line.
Running for three years, Ffermio Bro aims to deliver lasting change in our National Parks and National Landscapes, embedding new nature-friendly farming practices and protecting biodiversity in these places for future generations.
It is also crucial that the farming and rural culture that has shaped our National Parks and National Landscapes is protected. The restoration of nature must happen with farmers – not to them. That’s why farmers will be involved throughout the entire Ffermio Bro process – from shaping projects to sitting on Local Assessment Panels that will review applications.
Nature-friendly farming achieves so much – it supports sustainable food production, protects our rural culture and creates ecosystems that allow nature to recover and flourish. Ffermio Bro will provide the funding and support needed to help deliver this better future – for both farmers and the natural environment.
Ffermio Bro is now open to applications. Farmers interested in applying for funding under Ffermio Bro should apply directly to their local Designated Landscape, who will be able to help with every step of the process.