SW13: Very low nitrogen inputs to groundwaters
What is SW13?
SW13 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £396.00 per year for very low nitrogen inputs to groundwaters.
What do I need to do?
* Maintain a grass sward with an average height of 5 to 15 cm in November and minimal bare ground.
* Apply only a small amount of well-rotted cattle farmyard manure (max 12 tonnes/ha/year or equivalent), and only in years when the field is cut for hay or silage.
* Do not plough, cultivate, re-seed, or use supplementary feed (except mineral blocks).
* Do not use pesticides or herbicides, except for spot-treating or weed-wiping specific weeds.
What evidence do I need?
Agreement holders will need to keep the following records and supply them on request:
receipted invoices, consents or permissions connected to the work
records of all management activity on the option area for each parcel
a monthly record of the number of livestock grazing the land
evidence that a recommended fertiliser management system is used or evidence to support low intensity farmer claim
How much does SW13 pay?
SW13 pays £396.00 per year.
Which land is eligible?
Available for Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier and Higher Tier on whole parcels of improved grassland that meets each of the following requirements: the area receives more than 200kg of nitrogen per ha per year the area is specified as a priority Water Framework Directive (WFD) groundwater failure within the Countryside Stewardship targeting, for which this option is a priority * this option must be applied to all land parcels within the target area To use this option an applicant must also
Related links
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.