Grants to Boost On Farm Slurry Separation and Application Efficiency
The latest round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) has opened, bringing with it a significant opportunity for farms and contractors looking to upgrade their slurry management systems. The new grants include almost 50% funding for both fixed and mobile slurry separators, as well as for a range of application and slurryhandling equipment.
Vogelsang’s Andy Hayhurst says the increased support could accelerate adoption of separation technology at a time when slurry storage pressures and herd expansion are pushing farms to seek more efficient solutions.
According to the new specifications, a mobile separator can now attract £25,000 of grant funding against an average machine value of £54,580, while fixed separators are eligible for £9,516, based on an average value of £19,033. Mobile units must be capable of producing a stackable solid fraction with at least 25% dry matter.
Hayhurst notes that the Vogelsang XSplit exceeds this threshold comfortably:
“The XSplit can deliver a dry matter content of around 40%, which also makes the separated solids suitable for green bedding. While that isn’t required under the grant rules, green bedding is widely used across Europe and is gaining momentum in the UK as a sustainable, costeffective option.”
Recent winters with aboveaverage rainfall have left many farms close to capacity, and as herd sizes continue to grow, separation is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to investing in additional storage.
“A mobile separation service run by a contractor, or shared between neighbouring farms, could ease pressure during peak periods,” Hayhurst says. “With nearly 50% funding available for a mobile unit, demand is likely to rise sharply.”
Alongside separation, several slurry applicators also qualify for 50% funding. Grants are available for dribble bars, trailing shoes, and shallow injection systems, with the focus on smaller machines—reflecting an industry shift away from splash plates, which have already been banned in some countries and are expected to be phased out in the UK.
Eligible working widths start at 6 metres for dribble bars, with an additional grant category for units of at least 10 metres. For trailing shoes, widths above 6 metres or 8 metres qualify. Although maximum widths are not specified, the grant caps (e.g., £8,016 for trailing shoes) will naturally cover a smaller proportion of the cost of larger machines.
Hayhurst highlights that separation enhances the performance and longevity of applicators:
“A more homogenous liquid fraction reduces strain on pumps, macerators and umbilical systems. Removing the dry matter helps prevent blockages and reduces wear, improving efficiency during application.”
The overall message from DEFRA is clear—improving slurry handling is key to lower emissions, better nutrient management, and more sustainable farming.
“Slurry is one of the most sustainable fertilisers we have,” Hayhurst says. “When it’s separated and applied at the right time, it becomes a valuable resource rather than a waste problem.”
Applications for the current round of FETF funding are open from 17 March to 28 April 2026. Farmers and contractors are encouraged to check equipment criteria carefully and make use of the online scoring tool to maximise their chances of success.
Vogelsang will also host open days throughout 2026 to help farms evaluate their options and discuss the technologies available.
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