WT2: Buffering in-field ponds and ditches on arable land
What is WT2?
WT2 is an action under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme. It pays £681 per year for buffering in-field ponds and ditches on arable land.
What do I need to do?
* Establish a 10m-20m wide grass strip around ponds or adjacent to ditches on arable land.
* Allow the strip to develop a mix of tussocky grasses, flowering plants, and low scrub through natural regeneration.
* Do not cut the strip, except to control excessive scrub.
* Do not use pesticides (except for spot-treating specific weeds) or apply fertilisers/manures.
What evidence do I need?
Where there is uncertainty about whether the aims of the options have been delivered, we will take into account any records or evidence you may have kept demonstrating delivery of the aims of the option. This will include any steps you’ve taken to follow the recommended management 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
photographs of the strips
Where there is uncertainty about whether the aims of the options have been delivered, we will take into account any records or evidence you may have kept demonstrating delivery of the aims of the option. This will include any steps you’ve taken to follow the recommended management 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
How much does WT2 pay?
WT2 pays £681 per year.
Which land is eligible?
Available for Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier and Higher Tier. Only on arable land next to ponds, or on arable land adjacent to ditches under option WT3 Management of Ditches of High Environmental Value. On historic or archaeological features Around ponds associated with industrial features such as effluent ponds, balancing ponds or small water supply reservoirs
Related links
This information is provided by Farmwalk based on published government guidance. Always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.