Manure for Soil Health

STEPS-ISH3

 

  • £120 per hectare per year
  • Annual payments
  • 4 Year Agreement

Why is this good for water quality?

Soils with higher organic matter can hold nutrients more effectively and release them gradually, reducing the risk of nutrient losses to water through runoff and leaching. 

This option supports the use of organic inputs to improve soil organic matter and nutrient retention. 

Why is this good for my farm?

Improving soil organic matter supports better soil structure, water holding capacity and nutrient availability.

Using organic inputs can reduce reliance on manufactured fertiliser, reducing costs and improving crop resilience over time, particularly in dry or challenging seasons.  

Option Specification:

Evidence Requirements:

Evidence to Apply 

Evidence to Claim 

Maps - showing parcels included.   

Invoices - for organic materials applied 

Spreading risk map  

Manure analysis report  

Evidence that soil phosphorous is ≤3  

Updated soil analysis in the last year of claim/agreement (including SOM using the TOC, DUMAS method)  

Soil analysis including SOM using the TOC (Total Organic Carbon) DUMAS method.  

Annual data collection form  

Nutrient management plan  

 

Where relevant (outside groundwater catchments), evidence demonstrating planned reduced reliance on plant protection products, such as: changes to planned inputs discussed through an IPM  

 

Details of planned organic material application, rate, time and method 

 

What should I do if I want to apply?

If you would like to apply: