This challenge seeks innovation to support the delivery of sustainable land management in Wales, compatible with the Sustainable Farming Scheme and helping to meet national tree planting ambitions. We are seeking effective and environmentally acceptable alternatives to current bracken control methods which improve habitat condition and biodiversity, compliment food production, support successful tree establishment, and contribute to climate resilience and net zero outcomes.
This Contracts for Innovation Cymru challenge invites proposals to develop new, environmentally acceptable methods of bracken control which improve habitat condition and biodiversity, support successful tree establishment, and contribute to climate resilience and net zero outcomes. With chemical and mechanical options increasingly constrained, we are looking for scalable, cost-effective innovations – technical, social or economic – which can operate across diverse landscapes and contribute to long-term bracken management strategies
Bracken is prevalent in Wales and where dense, impacts the quality of grazing and habitat, providing cover for ticks and smothering ground flora. Tree planting on areas of dense bracken can provide farm benefits such as livestock shelter and potential income from timber, while delivering wider climate and nature benefits.
However, bracken control is needed at least for the early stages of tree establishment. Previously this was done mainly by aerial spraying with asulam, but this can no longer be used. Mechanical control can be limited by site conditions, access or scale. This Challenge is to explore new methods of bracken control which would ultimately support the establishment of trees in dense bracken. Proposals should focus on improving existing approaches or identifying new cost-effective methods of control that are potentially scalable and environmentally acceptable. Methods could include mechanical methods particularly on challenging terrain, assessment of alternative herbicides or use of new technology. This work could contribute to the development of the UK wide strategic framework for bracken management. There is also an opportunity for social (collaborative), economic or technical innovation.
Phase 1: Feasibility – We are looking to fund up to 4 projects up to a value of £50,000, excluding VAT, each.
Note: Projects successful at Phase 1 may be eligible to apply to subsequent phases. Additional phases will be dependent upon the outcomes of Phase 1 and future funding allocation.
The key focus will be on demonstrating the potential affordability and scalability of solutions that can be delivered at pace.
If project applications are seeking to build upon previous trials/small-scale testing, applications must clearly articulate how this funding will help accelerate more wide-spread development, outlining any previous adoption barriers and demonstrating how these will be addressed.
Out of Scope
- Proposals that would require activities in breach of applicable forestry, environmental, habitat protection or planning legislation.
- Proposals that do not clearly and directly address the scope set out in the Challenge brief.
- Proposals that do not demonstrate a clear element of innovation or advancement beyond existing methods, where applicable.
- Proposals that do not evidence affordability, scalability and practical viability for wider implementation.
- Proposals that fail to identify potential risks, unintended consequences or environmental impacts, together with appropriate mitigation measures.
Funding Allocation & Project Details
Current funding of £200,000, excluding VAT, is available to to fund up to 4 projects up to a value of £50,000, excluding VAT, each – which may be subject to change, dependent upon the number/quality of submissions received.
Your application should:
- Involve at least one Welsh based business involved in the agricultural supply chain.
- Demonstrate a clear plan for the development of a route to market for affordable, developed solutions.
- Explain the potential positive contribution, where relevant, to the goals of the Sustainable Farming Scheme, Woodlands for Wales Strategy, Innovation Strategy for Wales., Agri-tech action plan for Wales, and the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act.
- Consider, and address where necessary, equality, diversity and inclusion aspects across your project, your sector(s) and society.
- Evidence how environmental benefits have been considered (i.e. ensure increased efficiency is not at an environmental /ethical cost).
- Ensure personal safety is paramount and any risks clearly articulated with robust mitigation in place.
- Include a proportionate Phase 1 evaluation plan setting out how feasibility will be assessed, including key success criteria / benefits and indicative economic viability.
Briefing Event
Register for the virtual Briefing Event, to be held on Thursday, 26th March 2026, 15:00 – 16:30.