LH3 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £711 per year for creation of heathland from arable or improved grassland.

* Where necessary, carry out hydrological restoration measures (e.g., damming ditches or blocking drains).

* Encourage colonisation using heather seed or cuttings, preferably from a nearby donor site.

* Graze or cut colonising heathland vegetation at set times.

* Manage undesirable species (e.g., thistles, bracken) to keep cover under 10%.

* Do not plough, cultivate, re-seed, apply fertilisers, manures, lime, or supplementary feed.

* 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

LH3 pays £711 per year.

Available for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier Whole or part parcel Non-rotational On the following land if soil nutrient levels are low (a soil test will be needed to confirm this when applying, see below): arable temporary grassland * improved permanent grassland The best site is likely to be on well-drained sandy soil, former heathland that, ideally, has only been intensively managed for a few years. Sites are ideally near existing heathlands, so as to increase their extent and decreas

This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.