Paragraph 13 Eligible scheme actions; management of 7 metre riparian buffer stripsF1

An applicant who created a 7 metre riparian buffer strip between 19th June 2025 and 31st March 2026 which meets the criteria in paragraph 3 as it had effect on 19th June 2025 and disregarding any modification made on or after that date must–

(a)

not apply–

(i)

organic fertilisers;

(ii)

inorganic fertilisers; or

(iii)

lime;

(b)

not apply plant protection products, except for the spot treatment of noxious or invasive weeds;

(c)

not cut the vegetation in the 2 metre width next to the watercourse;

(d)

maintain protective fencing, access gate or gates and gate posts in stock-proof condition;

(e)

cut the vegetation in the 5 metre width next to the field after the 31st August 2026 and remove the cuttings;

(f)

ensure access to watercourses for maintenance purposes is not obstructed; and

(g)

complete all work relating to this action by 28th February 2027.

Annotations

Textual amendments

F1: Sch. 1 paras. 7-14 and cross-heading inserted (25.6.2026) by The Farming with Nature Scheme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026 (S.R. 2026/105), regs. 1(1), 2(7)(f)