Severn Trent has opened the latest round of its environmental protection scheme (STEPS) funding, with grants open to farmers in eligible catchments.
Dr Jodie Rettino, Severn Trent catchment and biodiversity lead, explains this new round of funding is open to more holdings than ever. “We aim to build on the progress achieved with farmers, elevate our efforts with refreshed options, and uncover new, innovative opportunities to collaborate with the farming community,” she says.
The funding window is now open. A wide range of 2025 STEPS options are available to apply for in the following areas:
- Improving soil health
- Improving soil structure
- Protecting watercourses
- Applying in the right place, at the right time
- Working in harmony with livestock
- Keeping soil and nutrients in the field
The options available include precision technology, cover crops, watercourse infrastructure, margins and low input leys, low drift nozzles, changes to tillage practice, leaving crop residues in the field and integrating livestock into the rotation, plus much more.
Within each of the areas, there will also be the opportunity to apply for an innovation option.
Dr Rettino says: “The innovation options require farmers to consult with their local agricultural adviser as part of a competitive application process where they can pitch alternative ideas to protect and improve water quality.
“In the past, we’ve seen successful applications for items such as high precision application equipment, low ground pressure tyres and non-chemical weeding machinery. By allowing farmers to make suggestions to us, we believe we can get the best improvements to water quality because farmers know their land better than anyone else.
“Now the scheme has launched, we would encourage farmers to speak with their local agricultural advisor before applying to ensure their application aligns with the water quality priorities of their area.”
In addition to the 2025 options, Dr Rettino explains that to ensure meaningful environmental gains, there will also be continuation payments for eligible STEPS grant recipients from the past five years.
“Continuation payments for our eligible infield options will ensure as many of our previous STEPS-funded items as possible are continued beyond their existing agreements, ensuring that water quality remains protected for years to come.”
“Over the past 10 years, we have funded over £10 million worth of farm improvements which have significantly helped to reduce losses of pesticides, nitrate and cryptosporidium to water so we are delighted to be able to offer this new and improved STEPS programme to further enhance the farmed environment.”
For more information about STEPS 2025 or to fill out your application online visit: www.stwater.co.uk/steps
