Tall-herb Vegetation Management
Date published: 19 January, 2022
For recent changes to this guidance, please see the bottom of the page.
Note: In September 2023, references to Scottish Natural Heritage have been updated to NatureScot.
Aim
The aim of this option is to restore, maintain or enhance the condition and extent of tall-herb habitats.
Tall herbs are typically found on upland cliff ledges and steeper slopes. Restricting or removing grazing pressure from domestic and / or wild grazers will allow these plants to flower and set seed.
Eligibility
Permanent pasture or rough grazing which contains existing tall-herb vegetation communities is eligible.
This can include land suitable for expansion of these habitats, and other land which requires to be included in enclosures for practical fencing reasons.
Spatial targeting
It may be possible to apply for this option outside this area where there is strong justification as endorsed by NatureScot.
You can check if this option is available on your holding using the search targeting tool which can be found on any of the following AECS guidance pages:
Application requirements
You must identify on a map the location of the area to be managed.
Management requirements
You must manage the same location and extent each year for the duration of your contract.
Each area will comprise a single parcel, and may be fenced off from a larger area.
You must either:
- exclude all grazing
or:
- if grazing with livestock, you must adhere to an approved grazing regime defining the livestock units and grazing dates
- you must maintain a diary
We strongly advise that you use the template below. If you choose to create your own plan, then you MUST provide all information requested in the template.
Failure to do so may result in your plan being deemed not fit for purpose and the option or item removed from your application.
Payment
You can claim £53.34 per hectare per year.
Inspections
The inspectors will check:
You have managed the same location each year for the duration of your contract.
You have either:
- excluded all grazing
or:
- if grazing with livestock, you have adhered to an approved grazing regime defining the livestock units and grazing dates
- you have maintained a diary
Additional guidance
Recent changes
Section | Change |
---|---|
Management requirements | Updated Grazing Management Plan template. |
Previous versions
Download guidance
Click 'Download this page' to create a printer-friendly version of this guidance that you can save or print out.