Radnorshire Wildlife Trust (RWT) want to support local farmers and landowners to future-proof their land. With the growing challenges of increased flooding and recent changes to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), RWT recognises the need to support farmers and landowners who are keen to improve their land for wildlife but are unsure where to start. Sarenta King who is the Wye Adapt to Climate Change Project Officer (WACC) is now offering farm-wide site visits, advice, and reporting in Powys. It encompasses advice on how best to manage land in a way that works both for farm businesses and the environment. The post is funded by the AKO Foundation and includes advice on:

• Sustainable Land Management (habitat plans, surveys, and nature-based solutions)
• Regenerative Agriculture (including mixed farming, agroecology, agroforestry, and organic farming)
• Climate & Nature-Focused Farming (nature-first and climate-first approaches)
• Business & Farm Support (Including signposting to available funding)
• Rewilding

Over 90% of Wales is agricultural land, yet over 95% of Welsh lamb is exported. RWT understands the importance of supporting family-run farms to thrive by helping them produce high-quality products for local markets. The Trust envisions a future where nature-friendly farming becomes mainstream because a healthy natural environment is essential for economic security and the wellbeing of society. Sarenta King (WACC project officer) says

Through the WACC project local farmers and landowners have already benefited from advice provided by Sarenta. A farmer in the Wye catchment area said: “Sarenta has helped us find alternative methods of income, we are looking now to be transitioning to agroforestry to create a home for nature and generate a sustainable income.”

Agroforestry is one of the many areas where RWT offers guidance, delivering numerous benefits for farmers. RWT want to change the perception that planting trees on farmland means “giving up land” by showing that it’s about maximising the land’s potential and making it more resilient for the future. For example, if crops fail due to climate challenges like flooding or drought, trees can be harvested as an alternative income stream.

By focusing on sustainable land management and regenerative agriculture RWT aims to help farmers and landowners in Powys work with nature to create thriving businesses that support the local economy, protect ecosystems and support climate-resilient landscapes.

If you are a farmer or landowner in Powys and you think you could benefit from this advice then get in touch with Sarenta King on Sarenta@rwtwales.org