LH2: Restoration of forestry and woodland to lowland heathland
What is LH2?
LH2 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £311.00 per year for restoration of forestry and woodland to lowland heathland.
What do I need to do?
* Remove trees and scrub , along with organic litter deeper than 5cm.
* Graze or cut to manage colonising heathland vegetation, aiming for a balanced range of dwarf shrub age classes.
* Carry out hydrological restoration measures if needed (e.g., damming ditches).
* Create or maintain 1% to 10% bare ground cover , avoiding historic or archaeological features.
* Maintain tree or scrub cover below 15%.
What evidence do I need?
Agreement holders will need to keep the following records and supply them on request:
* copies of the Wildfire Risk Assessment and, where required, the Wildfire Response Plan (agreed with fire service) and Wildfire Management Plan - for guidance and example plans see the Uplands Management Group template or Forestry Commission’s guide
field operations at the parcel level, including associated invoices
consents or permissions connected with this work
* any sites grazed will require a grazing activity record
How much does LH2 pay?
LH2 pays £311.00 per year.
Which land is eligible?
Available for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier Whole or part parcel Non-rotational Only on lowland heathland that has established tree cover over most of its area * on areas of heathland with scattered trees and scrub - use LH1 - Management of lowland heathland, to restore existing heathland habitat * on woodland being cleared on grassland
Related links
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.