STUFOL: 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?
do not apply pre-harvest desiccants to your crop
after harvest, retain the stubble overwinter and then establish a green manure crop (such as forage rye, chicory, mustard or legumes) from 1 March the following spring. The seed mix must include at least one annual flowering plant (e.g. vetch, clover or phacelia)
either, if your next crop is autumn sown – maintain the green manure until 15 August and do not apply fertilisers, slurry or farmyard manure to the site before 15 August or, if your next crop is spring sown – maintain the green manure until the 1 March and do not apply fertilisers, slurry or farmyard manure to the site before 1 March
the green manure crop must be established for at least 3 months before destroying
do not graze or cut forage from the area
the crop following the green manure must be a combinable or root crop
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
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.