Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier has opened for more farmers. However, the scheme will continue to be targeted and funding will be limited – meaning that not all those that might want to get an agreement will be successful.
Until recently, Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) applications were only available on an ‘invitation only’ basis. Invitations were primarily focused on those whose existing CSHT agreements were due to end. But those without an existing CSHT agreement are now able to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), although only for defined 3 types of schemes;
The single focus agreements are designed to be simpler than traditional CS agreements as they only focus on one element of land management. Initially, these will focus on species-rich grassland and the management of scheduled monuments. Later in the year, it is planned to extend single focus agreements to managing wet grassland and traditional orchards. Defra expects to offer up to 1,200 of these agreements. It is possible for a farm to have more than one single focus agreement if it has suitable features. Submitting an EOI does not guarantee an agreement offer, but applicants will receive a decision within 10 weeks. To express an interest, applicants must complete an online form; further guidance and the form can be found via https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/express-interest-in-countryside-stewardship-higher-tier