Rural Payments and Services

This item is aimed at improving priority open habitats by blocking ditches or grips to slow the flow of water through raising the water table back to natural levels. It is eligible where its provision meets the objectives of the Woodland Improvement Grants – Habitats and Species option. The location of the dam must be clearly identified on your application map.

Applicants must provide evidence that the habitat will benefit through endorsement from a recognised conservation organisation.

You must record the location and width of the ditches and the location of each dam on a map and give the management reasons for the operation in your application. Each individual dam must be watertight. Dams must be no more than 30 metres apart. The dam must extend well into the banks of the ditch, and the full dam width must be at least twice that of the ditch as recorded in your application.

We require this item to be in place, meeting minimum specifications and in good working order for a period of at least five years following the date you received your payment.

Please ensure you abide by conditions set out in the Forestry Grant Scheme claim form and guidance.

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