Option 6 - Modernisation through electronic data management for Forestry
What this is about
This option is being introduced to help land managers to increase their use of new technologies by supporting the initial set up costs which are often a barrier to uptake.
What this will achieve
This option will improve the competitiveness of forestry holdings through the use of new technology, including electronic hardware and software. It should improve business efficiency and the overall economic performance of forestry businesses.
What you must do 
Support is available for the purchase of the following types of electronic forestry planning equipment:
- GPS site mapping hardware and software;
- electronic callipers for the purposes of timber volume measurement;
- compatible software which can utilise the downloaded data from the items listed above or any other source;
- GIS software for the purposes of the production and management of long-term forest plans; and
- "Ruggedised" notebook PCs designed for electronic data capture in "outdoor/all weather" working conditions.
Who can apply
All land managers of forestry businesses.
How to apply
Complete Section 4 of the LMO application form using the code LMOEFP The amount applied for should be an estimate of 40% of the cost but the claim will be limited to the amount on the application.
Eligibility criteria
The purchased items must be;
- New (second hand equipment or software is not eligible)
- Paid for within the scheme year
- Maintained in working condition and retained for 5 years from date of purchase
What costs could be supported
We will provide support for the purchase of electronic forestry planning equipment listed above.
Rate of support
We will pay for 40% of the actual cost of the option up to a maximum of £1000.
We will also support individuals for up to 40% of their share of the actual cost of equipment and software for this option, up to £1000, where the eligible purchase has been made in collaboration with one or more individual businesses.
Assistance under this option can only be claimed once in any 5 years.
The collaborative element is not separate from the rest of the option, e.g. If a land manager purchases a "Ruggedised" notebook PC on his own and electronic callipers with his neighbour he can claim for both items at the same time as long as the claimed amount does not exceed £1000. He has to provide evidence each purchased item is eligible.
Inspection/Verification
The items purchased must be retained in working order for 5 years unless you can provide evidence that:
i. force majeure applies; or
ii. the items have been replaced with an eligible item of equivalent or higher specification which is in working order.
You must obtain and retain receipted invoices showing the supplier, description of the item, the cost of the item and payment for the item. If all or some of the equipment has been purchased in collaboration with other individuals and businesses, you must provide evidence of the supplier, a description of the item, the cost of the item and payment of your share of the cost.
Both the equipment and the receipted invoice must be available for inspection even if it has been purchased in collaboration with other individuals or businesses. Where applicants have purchased equipment together we will only be inspecting the selected individual's documentation and the equipment.
Evidence
We will send you a claim form which you must submit along with the supporting documentation by 31 August in the year following application. The receipted invoice for your purchase (or your share of the purchase) must be submitted in support of your claim for payment.