WHOLE FARM PLANNING

STAY COMPLIANT AND PROTECT YOUR FUTURE WITH WHOLE FARM PLANNING

Staying on top of ever-changing regulations can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already juggling the day-to-day demands of running a farm.

As the agricultural industry becomes more regulated, there’s more pressure to manage multiple audits and collect the right data to access subsidies and grants that farmers rely on, including the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS).

Brought in by the Scottish Government, Scotland’s Whole Farm Plan requires farmers to provide detailed insight, consistent records and adopt a sustainable and strategic approach to how you manage your land, livestock and resources.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ll share how our Whole Farm Planning solutions allow you to get the data you need to unlock essential rural payments and manage your farm more effectively.

WHAT IS WHOLE FARM PLANNING?

A Whole Farm Plan is a comprehensive way to assess and improve the environmental, economic and operational performance of a farm or croft.

Introduced by the Scottish Government in 2025, the aim is to encourage farmers and crofters to measure the impact of their activities and identify areas where improvements can be made, focusing on these key areas:

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Type of Audit

What’s Involved?

Who Does It Apply To?

Review Period

Soil Analysis
Optimises nutrient use and chemical inputs to improve soil health and long-term land performance.
Farmers and crofters who claim Region 1 land and apply artificial fertilisers and/or organic manures
Every Region 1 field must be sampled once over a five-year period.
Biodiversity Audit
Involves creating a habitat map to identify and manage existing habitats to support biodiversity.
All farmers and crofters
Every 5 years
Carbon Audit
Assesses the farm's carbon footprint to identify emission sources and carbon capture and sequestration opportunities.
All farmers and crofters
Every 5 years
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan
Focuses on efficient and reduced use of chemical inputs to save money and lower environmental impact.
Farmers and crofters that use pesticides and herbicides
Every 5 years
Animal Health and Welfare Plan
Aims to improve livestock efficiency for greater profitability and reduce emissions.
Farmers and crofters who keep livestock
Annual
For the latest information on Whole Farm Planning please visit the Rural Payments website.
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HOW WE CAN SUPPORT YOUR WHOLE FARM PLAN

Soil Sampling

Relevant Audits:
Soil Analysis & Nutrient Management Planning

Our independent soil sampling service provides the reliable, lab-tested data you need for the Soil Analysis component of your Whole Farm Plan.

Results can be supplied to you in the format you need from VRA maps to SAFs and NMPs, helping you save time, farm smarter and stay compliant.

key benefits

Compliant with Soil Analysis audit requirements
Accurate nutrient and pH data to guide fertiliser planning
Reduces waste and improves crop performance
Helps build long-term soil health and sustainability
Fully independent - no product sales or bias
Data ready for SAFs, NMPs and Whole Farm Plans
Better Soil Starts Here

Aftercare & Support

Whole Farm Planning doesn’t stop once the data is collected or the equipment is installed. At SoilEssentials, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding aftercare with a 24/7 helpline run by our team to help you stay compliant, confident and in control, every step of the way.

How we will support you:

Technical Assistance

Our dedicated team are only a phone call away through our 24/7 helpline - we're always happy to troubleshoot any issues.

Training & Guidance

Comprehensive training to help you get the most out of your new equipment and precision farming tools.

Results Formatting

We don't offer advice but we can format your maps and results for SAF submissions or audits - making them easy for you or advisors to interpret.

Annual Check-Ins

From software updates to seasonal soil sampling reminders, we’ll help you stay ahead of audit deadlines and keep your records accurate and up to date.
For us, it’s about more than selling solutions, we’re here to build lasting partnerships that help you farm smarter.
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Why Choose SoilEssentials

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Independent Solutions

We prioritise your needs by offering impartial data and tailored solutions without the pressure of upselling products
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Created by Farmers, for Farmers

With deep farming roots, we understand the challenges you face, delivering solutions crafted from real-world experience
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Speak to a Real Expert, Anytime

No chatbots, no call centres here - just direct access to knowledgeable specialists who are here to help when you need them
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Global Reach, Local Expertise

While based in Scotland, our expertise extends globally, providing innovative solutions and support to customers worldwide
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Exceptional Aftercare

Your success is important to us long after the sale, we provide dedicated aftercare and ongoing support to ensure long-term results
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Innovation at the Core

We’re always looking ahead, proactively developing the next generation of data-driven solutions to tackle the evolving challenges of farming

customer story

D Bryce & Sons

Stirlingshire

Discover how Angus Bryce of D Bryce & Sons in Stirlingshire adopted Trimble precision farming technology from SoilEssentials, improving accuracy, efficiency, and sustainability across their 445‑hectare arable farm.
read full story

talk to an expert

Need support with whole farm planning in Scotland? Get in touch with our friendly team, we’re here to help you find the best solutions to ensure your farm remains compliant.
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