IN times when farmers payments depend on their commitment to the environment, it seems to me that we should pay greater attention to those who lead the way in this area. Every year the Farmcare FWAG Silver Lapwing Awards, the most prestigious awards for

IN times when farmers' payments depend on their commitment to the environment, it seems to me that we should pay greater attention to those who lead the way in this area.

Every year the Farmcare FWAG Silver Lapwing Awards, the most prestigious awards for farm conservation, recognise farmers who combine conservation with commercial success on their farms.

We can learn a lot from how they do it. I urge all farmers to consider entering this year's Silver Lapwing awards to have their achievements recognised.

The main Silver Lapwing award rewards the pinnacle of conservation achievement, with winners from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland battling it out for the overall UK Silver Lapwing trophy and prize money.

Farmers new to conservation can compete for the First Steps Award. For example any farmer who has joined the Entry Level Stewardship scheme in England is eligible to enter this category.

Judging takes place during the summer and the winners will be invited to the prestigious ceremony in London in October.

Closing date for entries is May 19, 2006. Any readers who are interested in entering can download a simple entry form from www.fwag.org.uk or www.co-opfarmcare.com.

For further details contact Amanda Morris on 02476 698704 or e-mail amanda.morris@fwag.org.uk

MICHAEL WOODHOUSE

Director

Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group

Stoneleigh Park

Kenilworth