About

Dorset Agricultural Advisory Service - independent advice and support for farmers and rural business.

In recent years farming has undergone some major changes; with the single farm payment, costs of inputs and production not being matched by returns.

The new Rural Development Programme for England grant scheme may provide opportunity for some looking to diversify and others may be concentrating on the agricultural management of their land and looking at ways to maximise their farm.

DAAS can help with advice on the grant schemes and diversification. They can assist with the S.F.P. and associated schemes.

Our Principle Areas of Advice:

Farm Land based Business & Employment

An adequate income and capital for reinvestment are both necessary outcomes from your business. We can assist with opportunities for reviewing business performance, technical efficiency and other issues, including signposting to professional consultants to help maintain and improve your income.

Diversification

In some situations, developing alternative enterprises can improve the income levels of a business. This can range from adding value to existing products, or developing non agriculture enterprises including holiday accommodation, countryside leisure and recreational activities. Your adviser can discuss the suitability of such proposals, provide further information and help develop a plan of action.

Environment and Conservation

General advice on the integration of farming with the landscape, wildlife and historic interests of the countryside. Advice on Environmental Stewardship Schemes.
Grants and sources of finance

Identifying sources of grants and finance to help fund business proposals /opportunities, and income support /welfare. This includes guidance on Defra schemes which are part of the Rural Development Programme for England, along with local grant schemes. Advice and guidance is also available on income support, allowances, relief's and benefits. (See RDPE Page).

Planning

Help and guidance with pre planning enquiries, to assess the feasibility of proposals /ideas including diversification enterprises. Obtaining informal views from Local Planning Officers. Guidance through the planning process and signposting to relevant professional services.

Marketing

Helping producers to add value and get their product into the right market place through the development of marketing and promotion strategies in order to maximise outputs.

Training

Working closely with the land based colleges and other organisations to develop and deliver the right course to suit your requirements and in a location near to you. Information and support in accessing courses to suit your requirements.

Employment
Helping you seek and identify new employment opportunities and where required helping to find the relevant training provider to develop and obtain the appropriate skills.

Business Income

An adequate income and capital for reinvestment are both necessary outcomes for your business. Your advisor can assist with opportunities for reviewing business performance, business planning, technical efficiency, the Single Payment Scheme, and other issues to help maintain and improve your income.