MANOF: 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?
if you are undertaking capital work to wet the buffer area, this must be completed by 1 June in the first year of your contract
where no grassland exists, you must establish a grass sward by 1 June in the first year of your contract
you must adhere to an approved grazing regime in the buffer area and/or fen or bog habitat defining the stocking density and grazing dates
do not plough or cultivate the area, except to aid establishment in the spring of year one for land in an arable rotation
do not carry out supplementary livestock feeding without prior approval
do not apply lime, fertiliser, slurry or farmyard manure
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 management diary
Ancient Wood Pasture
Away Wintering Sheep
Payment
Contact RPID for payment rates
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.