Trees can bring a wealth of benefits to a farm, from life-saving shelter for livestock, combatting soil erosion, warming the soil to extend the growing season and slowing run-off. But we know many of farmers are worried about planting affecting your subsidies and grants.

Nottinghamshire farmers and father and son Richard and James Thomas can recall more than one occasion when he stood watching his livelihood literally wash away before his eyes. The problems of water and wind erosion were worsening at his farm. Strategically positioned shelter belts can protect topsoil against the dangers of erosion from wind and rain, improving the productivity of a farm.

Stephen and Lynn Briggs are tenant farmers at Whitehall Farm in Cambridgeshire. They have integrated trees into their wheat, barley, clover and vegetable-producing business, establishing the largest agroforestry system in the UK.

Farmers Paul and Nic Renison use mob grazing techniques to improve the productivity of their farm. They have been planting new trees and hedges across their farm to increase shelter for their flock and to reduce lamb loss.