Supporting Lonk Sheep and Native Breeds: Grants and Funding Opportunities
Native breeds like the Lonk sheep are integral to the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the UK.
Known for their adaptability to upland environments, these hardy sheep contribute significantly to maintaining sustainable grazing practices, enhancing soil health, and fostering wildlife habitats.
Recognizing the importance of native breeds, the UK government and other organizations have introduced various funding schemes aimed at encouraging their conservation and use in managed landscapes.
If you’re considering breeding Lonk sheep or already manage a flock, there are several financial incentives available.
Below, we’ll outline three key schemes and explain how they can support you.
1. SPM2: Keep Native Breeds on Grazed Habitats Supplement (50–80%)
This scheme is designed to encourage land managers to use native breeds like the Lonk sheep for grazing habitats.
50–80% of the Livestock Units grazing that land must be native breeds.
It provides financial support for maintaining traditional grazing systems that benefit biodiversity and landscape conservation.
Key Points:
Purpose: Promotes sustainable grazing to enhance habitats such as grasslands, heathlands, and meadows.
Eligibility: Native breeds recognized as contributing to biodiversity; Lonk sheep are a prime example.
Funding Rate: Offers a supplementary payment for maintaining native breeds on eligible land.
Application Process: Managed through the Rural Payments Agency (RPA). Applications should include details of the breed and grazing management plans.
For more details, visit the official SPM2 scheme page.
2. SPM3: Keep Native Breeds on Grazed Habitats Supplement (More Than 80%)
For land managers grazing their area with at least 80% of their Livestock Units being native breeds, this scheme offers an increased level of support.
This is particularly relevant for those operating in large or predominantly grazed landscapes.
Key Points:
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Purpose: Provides higher payments to land managers grazing most of their eligible land with native breeds.
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Eligibility: Must meet the >80% Livestock Unit grazing threshold with native breeds like Lonk sheep.
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Funding Rate: Increased financial support compared to the SPM2 scheme.
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Application Process: Submit an application through the RPA, ensuring detailed land use and grazing plans are included.
For more details, visit the official SPM3 scheme page.
3. SP8: Native Breeds at Risk Supplement
Native breeds at risk, such as the Lonk sheep, are eligible for additional funding under the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier program.
This scheme supports the conservation of rare breeds by providing supplementary payments for their use in sustainable land management practices.
Key Points:
Purpose: Helps safeguard native breeds at risk by integrating them into grazing plans.
Eligibility: Applicable to recognized at-risk breeds listed under the scheme.
Funding Rate: Provides a set payment per hectare for using native breeds like the Lonk sheep.
Application Process: Apply via the RPA as part of the Countryside Stewardship scheme. Applications should demonstrate how the breeds contribute to biodiversity and conservation objectives.
For more details, visit the official SP8 scheme page.
Why Choose Lonk Sheep?
Lonk sheep are a recognized native breed ideally suited to upland grazing.
Their hardiness, foraging ability, and contribution to maintaining biodiverse landscapes make them a perfect fit for these schemes.
Additionally, supporting native breeds like the Lonk aligns with the UK’s broader goals of promoting sustainable agriculture and protecting genetic diversity.
The Role of the ELM Scheme
The Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme is an overarching framework designed to replace previous agricultural subsidy programs. Though details are still evolving, it emphasizes:
Sustainable farming practices.
Biodiversity enhancement.
Support for native breeds like the Lonk sheep.
The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) has been actively advocating for native breeds within the ELM scheme, ensuring they remain a central part of future funding programs. To learn more, check out the RBST’s blog on the ELM scheme.
How to Get Started
Identify the Right Scheme: Review your land’s characteristics and grazing practices to determine eligibility for SPM2, SPM3, or SP8.
Apply Through the RPA: Visit the official pages linked above to begin your application.
Connect with the RBST: The Rare Breeds Survival Trust can provide guidance and support to help you maximize your participation in these schemes.
Celebrate Native Breeds: By incorporating Lonk sheep into your grazing strategy, you’re playing a vital role in preserving the UK’s agricultural heritage and promoting environmental sustainability.
By participating in these schemes, you not only receive financial support but also contribute to the conservation of native breeds like the Lonk sheep and the diverse ecosystems they sustain.
Explore these opportunities and join a growing community of breeders dedicated to sustainable farming and heritage preservation.