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<p>We will ensure there is a smooth transition from the Countryside Stewardship scheme
to the new Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMs). No one in an existing Countryside
Stewardship agreement will be unfairly disadvantaged when we transition to new arrangements
under the ELMs.</p><p> </p><p>New Countryside Stewardship agreements, including supporting
new woodland creation, restocking and management, will continue to be available in
the first few years of the agricultural transition period. Signing a Countryside Stewardship
agreement provides a viable, long-term source of income for delivering environmental
benefits. The Woodland Carbon Fund and the HS2 Woodland Fund are also currently open
to new applications from farmers and landowners who can meet the criteria for funding.</p><p>
</p><p>The ELMs will be open from the second half of 2024 and is founded on the principal
of “public money for public goods”. It is intended to provide a powerful vehicle for
achieving the goals of the Governments 25 Year Environment Plan and commitment to
net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Public goods that ELMs will incentivise include:
thriving plants and wildlife; protection from environmental hazards and mitigation
of and adaptation to climate change. Activities to be paid for may include tree planting
and woodland creation, and woodland management, including through natural regeneration.</p><p>
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