Initial evaluation of the implementation of Countryside Stewardship in England in 2015/16: Applicant and non-applicant survey

This document summarizes evaluations of the Countryside Stewardship (CS) scheme in England, which aims to improve environmental outcomes through agricultural land management. The evaluations, conducted through various methods including surveys and interviews, assessed the scheme's implementation, uptake, and the role of advice. Results showed a preference for larger farms, a complex application process, and the importance of high-quality advice. While the scheme's environmental goals were praised, challenges in implementation and complexity were noted. Payment rates and previous participation in similar schemes influenced uptake. The evaluations suggest improvements in the application process, better online materials, and clearer guidance to increase effectiveness and participation. Additionally, a comparison with previous schemes revealed a shift in management options, with a focus on arable land, low-diversity grassland, and soil and water protection. The evaluations recommend more targeted and flexible approaches to enhance environmental stewardship in UK agriculture. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: Home Office (Home Office)
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: 2018

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Links to published evaluations (DEBUGGING): No final report link found.
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes