- £600 per hectare per year
- Annual payments
- 4 Year Agreement
Why is this good for water quality?
This option aims to improve the water quality benefits of standard grass margins. In specific locations, standard grass margins can easily be overwhelmed by heavy rains, with field runoff simply running over the top.
A 3D field margin adds layers such as trees, shrubs, and deep-rooted plants that slow water, improve infiltration, and trap pollutants as well as landscape features such as scrapes, ridges and swales. Together, these features stabilise soil, support microbes that help break down harmful substances reducing runoff and pollution to watercourses.
Why is this good for my farm?
Dense vegetation such as trees and shrubs slows down rainfall and surface runoff, helping keep soil and valuable inputs like fertilisers in place. 3D field margins create habitats for wildlife and beneficial insects, which can reduce the need for pesticides.
They are also a beneficial way to make use of unproductive areas, for example cutting grass to provide fodder during dry periods.
Option Specification:
Evidence Requirements:
Evidence to Apply |
Evidence to Claim |
Maps - of the planned margin and also the total field area |
After photos showing the established areas |
Photos - showing the area where the work is being undertaken |
Invoices |
Agreed seed mixture |
Annual data collection form |
Evidence of proposed intervention including a written plan showing design, species selection, and management approach. |
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EA ALERT tool mapping to show location of watercourses being protected or overland flow being disrupted |
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What should I do if I want to apply?
If you would like to apply: