The Northern Ireland Executive has received confirmation that DAERA Minister Andrew Muir intends to introduce a new initiative focused on restoring natural environments across agricultural land.
This proposed arrangement relies on the Farming with Nature Transition Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025, which became operational in mid-June of the previous year.
A working group comprising representatives from agriculture and environmental sectors was established earlier this decade to advise on the creation of the supporting package.
The department stated that project selection will follow a competitive process managed internally by DAERA staff.
Those submitting applications must designate a Project Coordinator to oversee delivery and submit documentation covering site details, requirements, goals, and specific actions intended to boost biodiversity and link habitats.
Financial support is drawn from the Resource and Capital budget, with provisions for capital grants aiding bespoke design and implementation alongside payments for training attendance and monitoring activities.
The scheme aims to deliver funding for administrative tasks, ecological surveys, cartography, coordination, evaluation, and educational sessions for growers.
Proposals are scheduled to be accepted starting in late November of this year.
DAERA's Sustainable Agriculture Programme is currently being shaped through direct consultation with external partners and internal teams.