BPS 2016

DEFRA and the RPA are already thinking about the BPS system for 2016.  What we wrote last month has been confirmed – there will be both paper and online applications available for 2016.  However, what the online system will look like is still unclear.  SITI Farmer will continue to be used for processing applications.  But the level of ‘front end’ customisation is still to be decided.

Another issue highlighted last month was possible changes to the Greening rules.  DEFRA had until the end of July to inform the EU Commission of any alterations.  One possibility was to extend the list of landscape features eligible for EFA.  In the end, it has been decided that no changes will be made.  The only minor alteration is to add forage (oilseed) radish to the list of eligible cover / catch crops for 2016. 

Greening is obviously an ongoing yearly requirement under the BPS.  Those planting crops this autumn will need to recalculate their greening to make sure they are compliant with both EFA and Crop Diversification for 2016.  Some farmers will need to plant catch and cover crops as part of their 2015 application.  They should be careful to comply with the rules on which mixes are eligible.  Note, for example, that radishes only become eligible for EFA from next year and should not be part of the sown covers this year.