GS3: Ryegrass seed-set as winter food for birds
What is GS3?
GS3 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £515.00 per year for ryegrass seed-set as winter food for birds.
What do I need to do?
* Ensure grass grows for a spring silage cut, then remains un-grazed in summer.
* Leave grass to set seed from autumn through winter to provide bird food.
* Take the first silage cut before 31 May.
* For swards with at least 70% Italian or hybrid ryegrass, a second cut must be before 30 June.
* No grazing for at least 5 weeks before the first cut, or before the second cut for Italian/hybrid ryegrass.
What evidence do I need?
Where there’s uncertainty about whether or not the aims of the options have been delivered, we will take into account any records or evidence you may have kept to demonstrate delivery of the aims of the option. This will include any steps you’ve taken to follow the instructions set out above. It’s your responsibility to keep such records if you want to rely on these to support your claim.
Field operations at the parcel level, including associated invoices
Stock records to show grazing activity
Evidence of the sward composition will be needed with the application
When applying to use this option on permanent grassland, evidence will be needed that the grassland has been cultivated within the last 5 years
How much does GS3 pay?
GS3 pays £515.00 per year.
Which land is eligible?
Available for Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier and Higher Tier Whole or part parcel Rotational Only on: temporary grassland permanent grassland that has been cultivated and re-sown within the last 5 years Swards must contain at least 50% ryegrass (perennial, Italian or hybrid).
Related links
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.