This annual report summarises ten peer-reviewed research projects, published in 2024 and 2025, which evaluate various aspects of Agri-Environment Schemes (AES) in England. Funded by Defra through the Agri-environment Evidence Programme, the research primarily assesses the impacts of Countryside Stewardship, with some evidence of longer-term Higher-Level Stewardship agreements. Rather than offering a full review of all existing evidence, this report highlights recent findings.
Four studies examined the effectiveness of specific AES options, including interventions relating to woodlands, ponds, hedgerows, and educational access. These projects highlight the value of detailed field surveys and national comparison data for understanding environmental outcomes and refining AES practices.
Further research explored how the design and delivery of AES influence their impact, including the pilot scheme for historic buildings restoration and funding to enable collaboration at landscape scale. The national and cross-cutting impacts of AES were explored in relation to abundance of butterflies across England and how schemes can reduce climate vulnerability. Together, these findings illustrate how well-structured schemes can deliver meaningful environmental benefits while revealing opportunities for improvement.
Complementing the environmental findings, two studies investigated the human dimension of AES. One focused on public perceptions of AES effects on the landscape, while the other explored farmers’ connections to nature. These perspectives underscore the importance of social engagement in shaping long-term environmental success.
Monitoring and evaluation of AES continues beyond the projects published in this report. Projects published over the next 12 months will be included in the 2025-2026 Annual Report.