THE Country Land & Business Association (CLA) has published a guide on contract farming as a lifeline for rural businesses desperate to rebuild incomes following the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The guide covers the issues to consider when drafting contract agreements, giving managers, owners and farmers a better understanding of the subject before delegating management of their land and agricultural work to other farmers or companies.

Contracting agreements can reduce costs by removing the need to buy and maintain machinery, such as tractors, which are provided by the contractor.

The CLA advises members to seek specialist advice before entering any contract.