WADGRA: 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?
Exclude livestock from 1 April to 12 May inclusive, followed by a period of grazing, or
Exclude livestock from 15 April to 26 May inclusive, followed by a period of grazing, or
Restrict livestock by stocking with up to one LU/hectare from 15 March to 15 June inclusive
Do not harrow, roll or top grass from 15 March until 30 June inclusive
Do not apply lime, fertiliser, slurry or farmyard manure from 15 March to 15 May inclusive
You must graze the sward down to remove annual growth to avoid a build-up of matted dead plant material. The sward may contain occasional tussocks of taller vegetation
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 not establish new drainage
If you wish to undertake drainage maintenance, you must have prior written approval
You must maintain a diary
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.