‘Plenty to go at’ from expanded SFI offer

The latest Sustainable Farming Incentive offer from Defra deserves a closer look, says a farm consultant.

Tamsin Roark (right) took on the role of eastern region rural consultant for Agrovista erlier this year. Her remit includes meeting the increased demand from farmers requiring guidance on the SFI and other agricultural initiatives.

“The SFI is new to everyone and is constantly evolving, so there is plenty to go at,” said Ms Roark, who works closely with Agrovista agronomists to advise growers about which SFI options might work best for their farm business.

More actions

The SFI pays farmers to improve the natural environment and climate. This spring, Defra expanded the number of actions on offer from 23 to 102. It is due to open to most farmers by the end of July.

Ms Roark said: “No two farm businesses are the same and helping individual farmers to maximise the benefits of SFI alongside their ongoing farming operations is immensely satisfying.”

Although most of her work is SFI related, Ms Roark advises on capital grants and helps with nutrient management plans, which she will take on fully once she is FACTS qualified. She aksi works with new farming customers looking for support.

An agricultural graduate from Bishop Burton College Ms Roark initially spent 18 months working as a business and performance analyst for three local authorities, before taking up her role with Agrovista Rural Consultancy.

“I realised I wanted to return to agriculture and saw this new position as a chance to develop my career and build on the business experience I had gained – particularly during my last role,” she said.

“It was very obvious through the application process that the company wanted to support my professional development. It’s an exciting time to be getting back into agriculture – there’s so much happening across the industry.”