ALTWAT: Rural Payments and Services
What is this option?
This management option supports rural payments and services under the Scottish Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS).
What do I need to do?
the area to benefit is to be managed under a management option or
the land is within a diffuse pollution priority area where livestock currently have direct access to a watercourse or standing water for drinking water purpose
alternative watering facilities must not be installed within five metres of the water environment (as measured from the top of the bank)
water troughs must be a purpose-made unit constructed of galvanised steel, concrete, spray-moulded glass reinforced cement or polyethylene
where the water trough is connected to the mains water supply, the facility must comply with local Scottish Water byelaws
water transfer pipework must be buried in a trench
Ancient Wood Pasture
Away Wintering Sheep
Beetlebanks
Cattle Management on Small Units (Introduction / Retention)
Payment
abstraction point – creation of a watercourse abstraction point as per accompanying guidance – £476
How to apply
Applications are made through the Scottish Government's Rural Payments and Services portal. You must be registered with Rural Payments and Services (RP&S) to apply.
For application guidance and deadlines, visit the AECS scheme page on the Rural Payments and Services website.
Who can help
Rural Payments and Inspections Division (RPID) - for application guidance and scheme administration
NatureScot - for environmental advice and endorsements where required
Farmwalk - for digital farm mapping and environmental compliance support
Contact your local RPID office for specific guidance on this option.
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.