6–12m habitat strip next to watercourses

Where it applies

Arable, Temporary grassland, Improved grassland, Permanent grassland, Scrub

Eligibility conditions

• Below the moorland line, next to a watercourse (ditch, river, stream or canal)
• Areas with historic or archaeological features are ineligible

What you'll do

Establish a 6–12m habitat strip of grassland with native trees and shrubs next to a watercourse, within 12 months, for dappled shade and bankside habitat. Manage the woody growth, control weeds and invasive species, and keep livestock and vehicles off.

Evidence to keep

• Photos of the established habitat strip with its parcel reference
• A dated establishment record
• Dated management records (woody growth, weed control)
• Invoices

When

• Sep–Oct: Establish within 12 months (autumn ideal) (first year)

Combining with other actions

Actions that can be paid on the same area:

• SFI 2026: OFC1, OFC3, OFM1, OFM4, PRF2
• SFI 2024: CIPM1, CNUM1, CSAM1, OFC1, OFC3, OFM1, OFM4, PRF2
• SFI 2023: IPM1, NUM1, SAM1
• CS Higher Tier: CPAC1, CSP9
• Countryside Stewardship: OR1, OT1, SW15, SW16