In 2025, Scotland is introducing new rules for agricultural payments, with one key change being the requirement for a Whole Farm Plan (WFP). This guide outlines the essential information to help you prepare.
Why the Whole Farm Plan?
The Whole Farm Plan aims to boost both productivity and sustainability. By using the WFP, farmers and crofters can assess the efficiency of their operations, identify areas to cut emissions, and find ways to improve profitability. The goal is to help you produce high-quality food while reducing environmental impact and enhancing long-term sustainability.
What is a Whole Farm Plan?
A WFP is a comprehensive assessment of your farm or croft’s environmental and operational performance. It covers:
- Emissions: Reducing the carbon footprint of your business.
- Environmental health: Assessing and improving the condition of your land.
- Livestock health: Promoting the well-being of animals.
- Fertiliser and pesticide use: Identifying ways to reduce and optimize inputs.
By developing a WFP, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how to make your farm more efficient and productive, while meeting new environmental standards.
What Do You Need to Do?
To qualify for the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) in 2025, you must complete at least two components of the Whole Farm Plan by May 15, 2025. Here’s what you can choose from:
| Type of Audit/Plan | Who Should Complete It? |
| Biodiversity audit | All farmers and crofters |
| Carbon audit | All farmers and crofters |
| Integrated pest management plan | Farmers using pesticides and herbicides |
| Soil analysis | Farmers applying fertilisers or manures to Region 1 land |
| Animal health and welfare plan | Farmers with livestock |
You may already have some of these in place. If they meet minimum standards, no further action is needed. Check the scheme guidance to ensure compliance.
Available Support
The Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) scheme offers grants to help you complete required components, including Carbon Audits, Soil Sampling and Analysis and Animal Health and Welfare Interventions
These grants can help offset costs while ensuring your farm is ready for the changes.
Next Steps
If you haven’t already, start working on your WFP now. Resources are available to guide you:
- Farm Advisory Service: Offers online advice, videos, and FAQs to help you prepare for 2025.
- Scheme Guidance: Outlines all rules and requirements for WFP completion.
- Plant Health Centre: Provides a free tool for creating an Integrated Pest Management plan.
By acting now, you’ll be prepared for 2025 and better positioned to run a more sustainable, profitable business.