The Hen Harrier Programme has announced they can offer contracts to every farmer applying for the scheme this year.

“This increased intake will potentially bring the total number of farmers in the Hen Harrier Programme to over 1,600,” a statement from the group said.

They added that applications would be accepted on a monthly basis based on current criteria and contracts would issue from mid-April.

Contracts will also be issued to 1,000 farmers who are already part of the programme.

The organisation hope that additional land under the programme could reach 37,000ha.

Applications for the programme close on 29 March at 5pm.

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