CORMOW: 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?
Management of Cover for Corncrakes
Corncrake Grazing Management
do not roll, harrow or graze the land from 15 May until after mowing.
the area must be mown each year, but not before one of the dates below: - 1 August (mowing payment 1) - 15 August (mowing payment 2) - 1 September (mowing payment 3)
hay or silage must be cut in a wildlife-friendly manner
after mowing, you must remove the crop
a strip of grass at least two metres wide around the field boundary must be left uncut. Where the field is less than 40 metres wide this strip may be provided on one long side of the field
this uncut strip must be grazed down before the next exclusion period
do not spray, except for the spot-treatment of injurious weeds (requires prior written notification) or treatment of invasive species (requires prior written approval)
you must maintain a diary
Payment
£272.87 per hectare per year for mowing payment 1
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.