Following its decision not to integrate the Organic Farming Scheme with Glastir after all (Bulletin 105), the Welsh Government has now confirmed that the OFCS 2012 window for applications will be open from 3 October to 4 November. Only land that started conversion between 2 January 2011 and 1 January 2012 is eligible. An explanatory booklet is available from the Welsh Government, but most conditions and payment rates are similar to last year (as summarised in the Organic Farm Management Handbook). Applications must be received by 4 November, with decisions made and offer letters sent out by 28 November. Farmers must then return acceptance form by 7 December. Organic control body certificates, confirming conversion started between the dates specified above, must be submitted by 31 March with claims for area and establishment payments to be made on the SAF in May. See www.organiccentrewales.org.uk for further information.
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