Environment
Countryside Management Scheme
The Countryside Management Scheme is funded under Axis 2 of the Rural Development Programme and delivered by DARD.
It provides financial support to farmers and landowners for adopting farming practices that enhance our countryside.
The key aims of the scheme are:
• To maintain and enhance biodiversity in line with the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy and the Northern Ireland Programme for Government 2008-2011 by maintaining species diversity through the positive management of farmland habitats and to protect and enhance ASSI/Natura 2000 sites;
• To assist implementation of the Water Framework Directive; and
• To enhance landscape and heritage features by integrating their management into the everyday workings of the farm.
Who can apply?
The Countryside Management Scheme is open to all farmers and land managers with a Business Identification Number (Business ID) and with at least three hectares of eligible land.
What funding is available?
Annual payments vary according to farm size, the farmland habitats and historic monuments that are present and the areas or length of habitat.
How do I apply?
The opening and closing dates for schemes/programmes supported by the Rural Development Programme are advertised and promoted widely. Please check the When Can I Apply? section of the website for details of what schemes are open for applications.
To apply to the Countryside Management Scheme, you should contact us during the application period to check your eligibility. We will require the following information:
• Your Business Identification Number (Business ID); and
• Details of leased land (not conacre) you wish to enter into the Scheme.
We will use this information to create a report giving details of what land is eligible for the Scheme or, in cases where your land is ineligible, you will be provided with a reason(s) why.
If you are eligible and decide to proceed with your application, we will issue an acknowledgement and send you a detailed information pack.
What happens next?
When your application is received it will be assessed and prioritised against set criteria for the Scheme. We will write to inform you whether your application has been successful or not.
If your application is successful, a member of Countryside Management Branch will contact you to make an appointment to carry out a farm audit. The audit consists of three parts:
1. An overview of the Scheme rules;
2. A farm nutrient and waste management advisory visit and assessment; and
3. Land classification.
Following successful completion of the audit, we will write to you to tell you when your Scheme should commence. This date is called your “start date” and you should not commence any scheme work before this date. A scheme agreement normally lasts for seven years from this date.
Frequently asked questions
I am in an existing agri-environment scheme, can I enter into this scheme?
Yes. However, in the event of too many applications for the scheme, applications may have to be prioritised. This may mean that existing scheme holders will have a lower priority than applicants with designated sites.
Will participation in the Countryside Management Scheme affect my Single Farm Payment?
It is generally possible to claim Single Farm Payment and Countryside Management Scheme payment on the same area of land. However, you should consult with us regarding the latest advice on SFP and agri-environment, and the likely affect on your farm business.
How do I claim for payment?
In all cases, Countryside Management Scheme participants must complete an IACS Single Application Form to claim the annual Scheme payment.
Can I enter only part of my farm into the Countryside Management Scheme?
No. The Countryside Management Scheme is a “whole” farm scheme. All owned eligible land which is not leased out and is held by the farm business must be entered into the Scheme.
