4 February 2026

Updating your SCEP reference number and keeping track of actions

Farmers participating in the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) are reminded that changes to their reference number – if required – must be completed before the closing date on February 12, 2026, Teagasc Beef Specialist, Niall Kerins shares some key guidance.

Where farmers wish to continue with the same stock numbers / land area as in 2025, no action is required here. This deadline applies to farmers who wish to make any changes to their Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) application. Alternatively, farmers who may have reduced their reference number in the past, now have the option to increase their reference number for year four of the scheme.

Farmers should be aware where they are dropping rented land or planning to sow additional cereal crops in 2026, these changes can have a knock-on effect on SCEP payments. Reducing your annual refence number will reduce your SCEP payment.

If you are unsure if any amendments are required, you should contact your advisor as soon as possible.

In addition, farmers should be aware of the SCEP survey task relating to 2025. Surveys and data collection make up 20% of a farmer’s total SCEP payment. The final deadline for submission is February 15^th. This only applies specifically to farmers who did not submit their surveys during 2025. Completion of these surveys forms one of the tasks required to be completed under the programme.

The ICBF has recently issued hard-copy survey forms by post to farmers who do not complete surveys online. Farmers receiving these forms should complete and return them promptly to ensure compliance.

Reminder of mandatory actions to maintain in the SCEP scheme (failure to do so will result in contract termination and full monies recuperated):

Maintain a SBLAS member (Bord Bia QA)
Submit a valid BISS application
Calve 50% of the reference number annually between 1^st July and 30^th June
Have attended a SCEP training course at the beginning of the scheme

More from Teagasc Daily: Safety of suckler farms this spring