Severn Trent has opened the latest round of its environmental protection scheme (STEPS), offering grants to farmers in eligible catchments. This year, more holdings than ever are able to apply, reflecting the scheme’s ongoing expansion and impact.
Dr Jodie Rettino, Severn Trent catchment and biodiversity lead, says: “We’re really proud of the incredible work we’ve done with farmers over the past five years, and we’re excited to launch our new offer. We aim to build on the remarkable progress achieved with farmers, elevate our efforts with refreshed options, and uncover new, innovative opportunities to collaborate with the farming community.”
The 2025 STEPS programme covers a wide range of areas, including:
- Improving soil health
- Enhancing soil structure
- Protecting watercourses
- Applying nutrients in the right place at the right time
- Working in harmony with livestock
- Keeping soil and nutrients in the field
Farmers can access a variety of options within these areas, from precision technology and cover crops to watercourse infrastructure, margins, low input leys, low-drift nozzles, improved tillage practices, leaving crop residues in the field, and integrating livestock into rotations. Each area also includes opportunities to apply for an innovation option.
Dr Rettino explains: “The innovation options require farmers to consult with their local agricultural adviser as part of a competitive application process, where they can pitch alternative ideas to protect and improve water quality. In the past, successful applications have included high-precision application equipment, low ground pressure tyres, and non-chemical weeding machinery. By allowing farmers to make suggestions, we can achieve the best improvements because farmers know their land better than anyone else.”
Applicants are encouraged to speak with their local agricultural adviser before applying, to ensure their proposals align with the water quality priorities of their catchment.
In addition to the new 2025 options, continuation payments are available for eligible STEPS grant recipients from the past five years. Dr Rettino says: “Continuation payments for our in-field options will help maintain previous STEPS-funded items beyond existing agreements, ensuring water quality remains protected for years to come.”
Over the past decade, Severn Trent has invested over £10 million in farm improvements, helping reduce losses of pesticides, nitrates, and cryptosporidium to water. The 2025 STEPS programme aims to build on this success, offering farmers new ways to enhance the farmed environment while supporting sustainable practices.
How to apply:
- Check whether your farm is in a priority catchment by speaking to your agricultural adviser.
- To improve your chances of a successful application or to apply for an innovation option, seek advice from your local Severn Trent agricultural adviser on the most suitable options for your farm.
- For more information and to apply online: www.stwater.co.uk/steps
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