Paragraph 5 Eligible scheme actions; retention of winter stubbleF1

Northern Ireland

(1)

The criteria in paragraphs (2), (3), (4) and (5) apply to this action.

(2)

This action may be completed on arable land on which is growing–

(a)

cereal;

(b)

oilseed rape;

(c)

protein crop; or

(d)

linseed.

(3)

This action must not be completed on–

(a)

permanent grassland sensitive areas; or

(b)

stubble following the harvest of–

(i)

maize; or

(ii)

under-sown crops.

(4)

An applicant may retain winter stubble on a minimum area of 0.1 hectare.

(5)

An applicant retaining winter stubble must–

(a)

not apply inorganic fertiliser after the harvest;

(b)

not apply non-selective herbicides before or after the harvest;

(c)

retain that winter stubble, in line with normal husbandry practice;

(d)

retain it from after the harvest until 15th February 2027;

(e)

ensure that straw is either–

(i)

removed after the harvest;

(ii)

stored in field as bales; or

(iii)

left as chopped straw; and

(f)

ensure stubble is not grazed or cut.

Annotations

F1: Sch. 1 para. 5 substituted (25.6.2026) by The Farming with Nature Scheme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026 (S.R. 2026/105), regs. 1(1), 2(7)(d)