Scorecards available for download

Results based scoring is at the heart of DAFMs new agri-climate rural environment scheme. Parcels are scored and farmer payments are based on the score achieved. Scoring of land parcels takes place throughout the summer months and farm advisors have been trained on how to use the scorecards. Training in Donegal took place at Church Hill, Letterkenny and Breesy Hill, Ballyshannon over the last two weeks.

There are ten scorecards within ACRES and these are now available to download from the DFAM website. Guidance on using the scorecards and handy tip sheets are also available to download. https://www.gov.ie/en/service/f5a48-agri-climate-rural-environment-scheme-acres/#

Scorecards look at the ecolgical integrity of the land parcel, counting the number of positive indicators and looking at vegetation structure taking into account how the field is farmed. Other aspects of the scoring looks at threats and pressures such as risk to water quality, dumping and invasive species. Recommendations can be made on how to address issues that are detected so a farmer can increase their score. This benefits the farmer and the environment.

The Donegal CP team will be out scoring from mid June and can be identified by the green Hi-vis vests. Cars will also have a sign to notify farmers that we are in the area. Our new team of field surveyors have recently trained and you can read more about the team here.

Good luck to everyone scoring and stay safe.