EFA in 2016

There has been a question over whether a field that had been used to grow a 2015 EFA Cover crop could then be put into EFA Fallow for 2016.  Cover crops have to remain in place until 15^th January, whilst the EFA Fallow period begins on the 1^st January.  The 15-day overlap seemed to pose a problem.

DEFRA has now confirmed that the land can be used for EFA Fallow in 2016.  The Cover crop must be kept in place until at least the 15^th January to comply with the Greening rules.  After that the claimant can simply leave the residue of the Cover crop in place until the 30^th June if they wish (this complies with the Fallow rules).  Alternatively, the EFA Fallow management rules allows the cover to be destroyed (sprayed or cultivated) to control weeds – this includes removing the Cover to stop it setting seeds.  Other management options include topping the Cover crop or replacing it with wild bird seed or nectar mixes.