24 October 2014
The Countryside Enhancement and Rural Initiative schemes have now opened for applications.
The States-funded grant schemes aim to improve Jersey’s environment and promote diversification and efficiency in the agricultural and fishing industries. Since their introduction in 2006, the two schemes have supported a wide range of projects which have benefited Island wildlife, the environment and rural businesses.
Commitment to rural industry
Rural Economy Manager for the Department of the Environment, John Jackson said “The Countryside Enhancement Scheme and Rural Initiative Scheme are key parts of the current Rural Economy Strategy through which the States demonstrates its commitment to the importance of the natural and farmed environment and the rural industries which have created and manage the Island’s diverse countryside.
“The Countryside Enhancement Scheme provides financial support for environmental improvement projects which seek to help, support and protect the Island’s unique wildlife, habitats and landscapes. The Rural Initiative Scheme aims to assist entrepreneurs in the rural sector to start new enterprises, improve production efficiency and product quality, generate and improve energy efficiency, add value to local products and identify and research new opportunities and markets.
“These schemes have had a beneficial effect on the rural environment and in diversifying and improving the efficiency of rural businesses and I recommend their uptake to those in the rural sector.”
The deadline for applications for the Countryside Enhancement Scheme is Friday 16 January 2015 and the deadline for the Rural Initiative Scheme is Friday 23 January 2015.
Rural Initiative Scheme application form and guidelines
Countryside Enhancement Scheme application form and guidelines
gov.je