Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group South West Limited

Entry #11 - Lawrie Sampson: How are farmland birds on the Lizard faring?

Being involved in conservation and advisory work has taken me all over the country. This has been particularly useful as a bird conservationist, because it has allowed me to gain a feel for why species might be found in one place and not other, and therefore understand what their ecological requirements are. Read more
Farm Plastic Recycling Scheme 2021

The first FWAG Farm Plastic Recycling Scheme began in 2004 and has taken place annually ever since. The aim of the scheme is to provide farmers with a responsible, environmentally sound way to recycle plastic, preventing it from going to landfill. Read more
Hedgerow Species #12 - Blackthorn

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) – the spiny hedgerow friend. Sometimes it’s worth looking at the latin, or botanical, name – it can tell you a lot. The ‘prunus’ tells us that blackthorn is part of the ‘cherry’ family – hence the rich, inky, dark fruits that blackthorn is famous for used to make a favourite wintry tipple – sloe gin. Click here to find out more about this hedgerow species... Read more

Supporting fellow farmers, for over 50 years, to value the environmental assets on their land and use them for a sustainable and profitable future.

How we help

Farm Habitats and Species

We can guide you through any project, arranging surveys and plans to satisfy local planning authority requirements and ensuring the project delivers the maximum wildlife and amenity value.

FWAG SW has a wealth of experience in the range of grants on offer and their suitability for your farm business. We can prepare and submit an application on your behalf and help with your evidence and record keeping requirements.

Our work

Environmental Land Management System Trial

The Environmental Land-Management System (ELMS) is being developed by DEFRA as a potential new payment methodology that is planned to replace current Basic Payment Scheme and Countryside Stewardship.

Great Crested Newt Pond Scheme

Are you looking to create or restore a pond on your farm? This could be the opportunity for you. As part of Natural England’s District Level Licensing, up to 100% funding is available to create or restore existing ponds with Great Crested Newts at the forefront of the pond design. Click here to register your interest...

Somerset Catchment Partnership

Somerset Catchment Partnership is bringing together a range of organisations who work within the water environments of Somerset since 2013.

144

Countryside Stewardship agreements were submitted, on behalf of farmers, in 2020

£11,851,000

of grants will be paid to these farmers in the south west over the next 5 years

Plus £5.8m

for capital investments

Support us

County Competitions

FWAG SouthWest currently run county based competitions in Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire and Somerset. Are you a farmer who carefully considers methods of conservation and sustainability when farming your land? If you would like to find out more about these competitions, and find out how to enter, click here.

Become a member / Renew your membership

JOIN US! Become a friend or a member and you'll be helping to create a better farmed environment for everyone across the South West.

Are you interested to volunteer with us?

Volunteering with FWAG SouthWest is a brilliant opportunity to gain on the ground experience in conservation, a way of giving your time to our charity and something for your CV, as well as a chance to meet new people in your area and have fun! Click here if you think you may want to get involved!

News

[16.02.21] Grants up for Grabs for Somerset Farmers

Farmers will be able to bid for funding for up to 12 environmental measures on their farm, in Somerset’s biggest online auction to date. The auction will run from 1 – 15 March 2021. Click here to read the full press release... Read more
[18.12.20] Somerset Catchment Market

EnTrade is operating a Catchment Market in parts of the River Tone and Parrett catchments (including the Yeo), to improve water quality and biodiversity. Click here for full details... Read more
[16.12.20] COVID-19 Update

In light of Coronavirus (COVID19) we are keeping FWAG SW services and activities under constant review in line with government guidance. Please click here to read our full, current guidance. Read more

Blog Posts

Entry #11 - Lawrie Sampson: How are farmland birds on the Lizard faring?

Being involved in conservation and advisory work has taken me all over the country. This has been particularly useful as a bird conservationist, because it has allowed me to gain a feel for why species might be found in one place and not other, and therefore understand what their ecological requirements are. Read more
Do Ivy and Other Structures Impact Ancient Trees?

Most farms I have visited recently have had at least one veteran tree somewhere, and it is clear that they are an under-recorded resource in Cornwall. I recently had the please of coming across this spectacular twin-stemmed ancient ash tree near Golant. Click here to read more... Read more
Hedgerow Species #12 - Blackthorn

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) – the spiny hedgerow friend. Sometimes it’s worth looking at the latin, or botanical, name – it can tell you a lot. The ‘prunus’ tells us that blackthorn is part of the ‘cherry’ family – hence the rich, inky, dark fruits that blackthorn is famous for used to make a favourite wintry tipple – sloe gin. Click here to find out more about this hedgerow species... Read more