Scenario modelling support package

The support package is designed to provide farmers with more confidence to make sustainable business decisions by understanding how those different decisions will impact farm costs and profit.

What will it support?

Successful applicants will receive 1:1 support from a qualified and experienced farm advisor to explore different farm management “scenarios” using the FARMAX Analysis tool. The tool uses detailed information about the current workings of the farm business. Different scenarios can then be modelled with each scenario tied to that individual farm’s pasture productivity. The advisor will work with the farmer to gather the required detailed information and will run the tool for different scenarios on the farmer's behalf.

Farms will be able to run up to five scenarios. The scenarios should be for the purposes of improving the farm’s sustainability, such as through lowering carbon emissions. Example scenarios might include using deferred grazing, reducing fertiliser or changing feed and stock strategies.

Successful applicants who have worked through the scenario modelling tool will then be able to apply for an up to £5000 grant to support putting in place one (or more, or part) of the modelled scenarios. The grant will be subject to a separate application process and will be awarded on a case-by-case basis depending on the support that is required. Please note the additional grant is not guaranteed to farmers who successfully get accepted into this support package. The farm advisor will be available to give advice on implementing new practices and identifying capital need.

Applicants should be aware that if successful, the support package work with the advisor may take place at any time throughout 2026. This is to manage staff and advisor capacity. Applicants will be able to note their preferred availability.

How is an application assessed?

Applications will be assessed against a scoring system based on four criteria listed below. The scoring card can be found HERE.

1. The location, size and farming type. (If oversubscribed with applicants who score well on items two and three, we will select farms that reflect a range of locations and farming types across the National Park).
2. A description of the management options that the farmer is interested in exploring and why.
3. Willingness to be involved in knowledge exchange. Successful applicants will be required to commit to at least one form of “knowledge exchange” in relation to the support package. This could be in the form of:
   • Hosting a farm event (organised by the Park Authority and co-delivered by the farmer and advisor) to share your experience using the tool with other farmers.
   • Providing at least one piece of media about your experience in a format of your choice (e.g. video diary, blog post, image post, interview, taking part in a film, etc).
   • Providing data and feedback so the Park Authority and advisor can write a case study.

How can I apply?

Applicants should fill out the application form below by 9am on Monday, 16 February 2026.

If you would prefer to fill out your application by phone or in person, please call 01479 873535 and we will arrange this with the project manager.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by the end of March 2026. If the support package is undersubscribed, then we may extend the application window.