THE RURAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION SCHEME (REPS)
SPECIFICATION
FOR
REPS PLANNERS
IN THE
PREPARATION OF REPS 4 PLANS
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND
FOOD
AN ROINN TALMHAÍOCHTA AGUS BIA
The Rural Environment Protection Scheme is a Measure included in the National Rural
Development Plan, co-funded under the National Development Plan 2007–2013 and the
European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund of the European Union in the
implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 5
DESCRIPTION OF EACH REPS MEASURE ........................................................................... 6
DRAWING UP A REPS 4 PLAN.............................................................................................. 15
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 15
SUMMARY OF MANDATORY BIODIVERSITY OPTIONS................................................................. 15
GENERAL PLANNING GUIDELINES ........................................................................................... 16
DESK PROCEDURE BY PLANNER ............................................................................................. 16
FIELD PROCEDURE BY PLANNER ............................................................................................ 17
MEASURE 1 ............................................................................................................................ 25
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................... 25
MEASURE 2 ............................................................................................................................ 43
GRASSLAND AND SOIL MANAGEMENT ..................................................................................... 43
MEASURE 3 ............................................................................................................................ 48
PROTECT AND MAINTAIN W ATERCOURSES, W ATERBODIES AND W ELLS.................................... 48
MEASURE 4 ............................................................................................................................ 52
RETAIN W ILDLIFE HABITATS ................................................................................................... 52
MEASURE 5 ............................................................................................................................ 55
MAINTAIN FARM AND FIELD BOUNDARIES ................................................................................ 55
MEASURE 6 ............................................................................................................................ 62
RESTRICTED USE OF PESTICIDES AND FERTILISERS................................................................. 62
MEASURE 7 ............................................................................................................................ 64
ESTABLISH BIODIVERSITY STRIPS SURROUNDING FEATURES OF HISTORICAL AND
ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST .................................................................................................. 64
MEASURE 8 ............................................................................................................................ 67
MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE VISUAL APPEARANCE OF FARM AND FARMYARD ................................. 67
MEASURE 9 ............................................................................................................................ 71
TILLAGE CROP PRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 71
MEASURE 10 .......................................................................................................................... 73
TRAINING IN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FARMING PRACTICES ............................................. 73
MEASURE 11 .......................................................................................................................... 75
THE MAINTENANCE OF FARM AND ENVIRONMENTAL RECORDS................................................. 75
REPS BIODIVERSITY OPTIONS ........................................................................................... 76
SUMMARY OF MANDATORY BIODIVERSITY UNDERTAKINGS....................................................... 76
OPTION 2A TRADITIONAL HAY MEADOWS ............................................................................... 77
OPTION 2B SPECIES RICH GRASSLAND ................................................................................... 77
OPTION 2C USE OF CLOVER IN GRASSLAND SWARDS ............................................................... 78
2
OPTION 2D USE OF TRAILING SHOE TECHNOLOGY ................................................................... 79
OPTION 2E CONTROL OF INVASIVE SPECIES ............................................................................ 79
OPTION 3A INCREASE W ATERCOURSE MARGIN ........................................................................ 80
OPTION 3B EXCLUDE ALL BOVINE ACCESS TO WATERCOURSES ................................................ 80
OPTION 3C USE OF PLANTED BUFFER ZONE ............................................................................ 80
OPTION 4A CREATION OF A NEW HABITAT ............................................................................... 81
OPTION 4B BROADLEAVED TREE PLANTING ............................................................................. 82
OPTION 4C NATURE CORRIDORS ............................................................................................ 83
OPTION 4D FARM W OODLAND ESTABLISHMENT ....................................................................... 83
OPTION 5A HEDGEROW COPPICING ........................................................................................ 84
OPTION 5B HEDGEROW LAYING .............................................................................................. 84
OPTION 5C NEW HEDGEROW ESTABLISHMENT ........................................................................ 84
OPTION 5D ADDITIONAL STONEWALL MAINTENANCE................................................................. 85
OPTION 7A INCREASE IN ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL BUFFER MARGINS ......................... 86
OPTION 8A TRADITIONAL IRISH ORCHARDS .............................................................................. 86
OPTION 8B INSTALL BIRD AND/OR BAT BOXES.......................................................................... 87
OPTION 9A GREEN COVER ESTABLISHMENT ............................................................................ 88
OPTION 9B ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT OF SETASIDE ........................................................ 88
OPTION 9C INCREASED ARABLE MARGINS ............................................................................... 89
OPTION 9D LOW INPUT SPRING CEREALS ................................................................................ 91
OPTION 9E MINIMUM-TILLAGE ................................................................................................. 91
CONSERVATION OF NATURA 2000 AND OTHER PRIORITY SITES (FORMERLY
MEASURE A) .......................................................................................................................... 93
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURES............................................................................................ 98
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 98
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 1 ........................................................................................... 99
W ILD BIRD HABITAT ............................................................................................................... 99
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 2 ......................................................................................... 100
TRADITIONAL IRISH ORCHARDS ............................................................................................ 100
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 3 ......................................................................................... 101
CONSERVATION OF ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCES ............................................................... 101
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 4 ......................................................................................... 104
RIPARIAN ZONES ................................................................................................................. 104
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 5 ......................................................................................... 106
LINNET (LAND INVESTED IN NATURE, NATURAL ECO-TILLAGE) HABITATS ............................. 106
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 6 ......................................................................................... 108
LOW INPUT SPRING CEREALS............................................................................................... 108
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 7 ......................................................................................... 109
MINIMUM-TILLAGE ................................................................................................................ 109
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 8 ......................................................................................... 110
TRADITIONAL SUSTAINABLE GRAZING ................................................................................... 110
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 9 ......................................................................................... 111
INCORPORATION OF CLOVER INTO GRASSLAND SWARDS. ...................................................... 111
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SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 10 ....................................................................................... 112
MIXED GRAZING .................................................................................................................. 112
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 11 ....................................................................................... 113
LAKES AND CATCHMENTS .................................................................................................... 113
SUPPLEMENTARY MEASURE 12 ....................................................................................... 113
HERITAGE BUILDINGS .......................................................................................................... 113
APPENDIX - 1 APPROVED SOIL SAMPLING PROCEDURE ............................................. 114
APPENDIX – 2 REFERENCE TABLES ................................................................................ 116
APPENDIX – 3 REFERENCE TABLES ................................................................................ 122
APPENDIX 4 - CENTRAL AND REGIONAL FISHERIES BOARD ADDRESSES ................ 126
APPENDIX 5 – HEDGEROW INFORMATION ..................................................................... 127
APPENDIX – 6 ORCHARD INFORMATION ......................................................................... 135
APPENDIX 7 – COMMONAGE ISSUES ............................................................................... 140
APPENDIX – 8 THE BURREN AND OTHER AREAS .......................................................... 146
CONDITIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE BURREN TO BE APPLIED UNDER THE RURAL
ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION SCHEME (REPS)...................................................................... 146
CONDITIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF BLANKET BOGS, HEATHS AND UPLAND GRASSLANDS
UNDER THE RURAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION SCHEME ..................................................... 151
FARMING CONDITIONS FOR SAND DUNE AND MACHAIR AREAS............................................... 154
FARMING CONDITIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF CORNCRAKE HABITATS .......................... 157
FARMING CONDITIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF RIVER SAC ............................................ 159
APPENDIX - 9 ....................................................................................................................... 160
APPENDIX – 10 MILK PRODUCTION PARTNERSHIPS..................................................... 161
4
INTRODUCTION
The objectives of the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS) are:

To promote:
a) Ways of using agricultural land which are compatible with the protection and
improvement of the environment, biodiversity, the landscape and its features,
climate change, natural resources, water quality, the soil and genetic diversity
b) Environmentally-favourable farming systems.
c) The conservation of high nature-value farmed environments which are under
threat.
d) The upkeep of historical features on agricultural land.
e) The use of environmental planning in farming practice.

To protect against land abandonment.

To sustain the social fabric in rural communities.

To contribute to positive environmental management of farmed NATURA 2000
sites.
This specification sets out the requirements for planners in drawing up REPS 4 plans. The
specification also includes guidelines for the inclusion of NATURA 2000 sites where present on
the holding.
Planners and farmers should note that the artificial creation/enlargement of holdings (i.e. the
creation or enlargement of farming units for the purposes of drawing down or for topping up
REPS payments) is not permitted.
Participants in the Scheme must carry out their farming activities for a five-year period in
accordance with an approved agri-environmental plan and the requirements set out in the
Scheme Terms and Conditions.
An approved REPS planner must prepare a REPS plan,
specific to each farm.
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DESCRIPTION OF EACH REPS MEASURE
Measure 1
Nutrient Management
This measure promotes the efficient use of nutrients in an environmentally friendly manner. It
involves the systematic evaluation of all the nutrient sources available and required on the
farm in accordance with crop requirements, the environmental sensitivity of the lands that
goes beyond the requirements of the European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for
Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006.
The objectives of this measure are to protect water quality, promote the efficient and
environmentally sensitive use of chemical and organic fertiliser and enhance biodiversity.
Measure 2
Grassland and Soil Management
Excessive compaction, poaching and overgrazing of grassland can result in siltation and
nutrient enrichment of surface waters. The adoption of a specific grassland and soil
management plan by farmers will ensure a balance between agricultural and environmental
demands.
The objective of this measure is to promote a sustainable grassland and soil management
plan that protects habitats, minimises poaching, overgrazing, the potential for soil erosion and
prevent land abandonment.
Measure 3
Protect and maintain watercourses and wells
Riparian margins are an important habitat to a wide range of flora and fauna. The
development of streamside vegetation strengthens channel banks and acts as a buffer strip to
intercept overland flow of nutrients. Buffer zones around wells also contribute to the protection
of water quality.
The objective of this measure is to avoid the nutrient enrichment of water from agriculture and
thus maintain or improve water quality. To this end the protection of watercourses enables
natural streamside vegetation to develop and improve biodiversity by attracting a wide range
of flora and fauna.
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Measure 4
Retain Wildlife Habitats
Wildlife habitats can be on any area of the farm, but the most important ones are often areas
peripheral to normal farming operations. These areas have largely been undisturbed by
drainage, ploughing, re-seeding nor subjected to heavy fertiliser or herbicide use and retain
their unique characteristics. Some habitats have developed naturally during the 10,000 years
since the last ice age and are irreplaceable, while other habitats have developed as a result of
centuries of traditional farming practice and are dependent upon the continuation of that
management.
The objective of this measure is to retain habitats and to ensure that farming practices on
these areas are carried out in a manner beneficial to the interests of wildlife and conservation
generally.
MEASURE 5
Maintain Farm and Field Boundaries.
Linear boundaries which include stonewalls, earth or stone banks, hedgerows and mature
trees give the Irish landscape its distinctive character and field pattern. These provide
important habitats for flora and fauna and function as linear corridors permitting wildlife to
move between habitats such as woodlands, wetlands etc.
The objective of this measure is to conserve, maintain and enhance permanent boundary
fences, roadside fences, stonewalls and hedgerows in the interest of stock control, biosecurity, wildlife and scenic appearance of the area.
Measure 6
Restricted use of Pesticides and Fertilisers
The improper and/or inappropriate use of pesticides and fertilisers can dramatically upset the
balance of flora and fauna resulting in a major reduction in biodiversity. Pesticides, apart from
reducing biodiversity, may leave residues in water that are harmful to humans and animals.
Fertiliser entering waterbodies adds to nutrient enrichment resulting in eutrophication and
unwanted plant growth that impedes water flows.
The objective of this measure is to protect water resources and habitats for flora and fauna,
by restricting the use of pesticides and fertilisers in the vicinity of field boundaries, ponds,
streams and wells.
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Measure 7
Establish
Biodiversity
Buffer
Strips
Surrounding
Features
of
Historical
and
Archaeological Interest
The countryside of Ireland contains an important record of Irish history - a rich heritage of
historical and archaeological monuments. Increasingly, mechanised farming practices and
changes in land use have threatened this ancient landscape.
The objective of this measure is to establish and maintain biodiversity buffer strips (including
management strategies) surrounding features of historical and archaeological interest and to
promote greater awareness of these features on farms.
Measure 8
Maintain and Improve Visual Appearance of Farm and Farmyard
There are many examples of structurally sound old farm buildings of limestone, granite or
sandstone construction. These structures, with some maintenance, can be preserved.
Neglect of these buildings is a loss to the countryside because such structures are important
historic features that contribute to the character of an area.
Considerable quantities of waste materials are generated by modern farming practices and
their disposal should be carefully planned so as to avoid or minimise the risk of causing
environmental pollution. These pose a threat to animal welfare as well as attracting vermin.
The objective of this Measure is to promote a greater awareness of the need to harmonise the
visual impact of the farmyard and the farm with the surrounding countryside.
Measure 9
Produce Tillage Crops Respecting Environmental Principles.
It is widely assumed that tillage land is of low conservation value compared to more marginal
agricultural land where farming is less intensive. This may be true when farms are looked at
individually but it does not mean that management of the typical tillage farm is of no
significance to conservation.
Tillage land, especially when intermixed with grassland, provides an important habitat for
many seed eating birds such as larks and finches and is also a safe habitat for ground nesting
birds.
The objective of this measure is to encourage tillage farming practices and production
methods that reflect the increasing concern for conservation, landscape protection and wider
environmental problems.
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Measure 10
Training in Environmentally Friendly Farming Practices
The increasing importance of environmental sustainability and the positive contribution the
farming community can exert on the environment highlights the need for appropriate
education. Training to equip farmers with the necessary skills to manage the farm in an
environmentally friendly fashion is essential.
The objective of this measure is to provide participants with information on the environmental
benefits arising from REPS, clarification of all the relevant scheme requirements and the
knowledge and skills necessary to implement their REPS plan.
Measure 11
The Maintenance of Farm and Environmental Records
The timely recording of relevant management information has long been considered the
keystone for effective farm management. Use of records as a management tool will result in
improved efficiency and viability of the farm unit.
The objective of this measure is to record management information and practices undertaken
throughout each year of the REPS contract on the prescribed record sheets.
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Mandatory Biodiversity and Environmental Undertakings
To achieve increased biodiversity at farm level, enhancement of the eleven basic Measures is
desirable. By providing farmers with a choice from a series of biodiversity and environmental
undertakings, each farmer is given the opportunity to select the works most appropriate to the
environmental or landscape features of the farm in question.
The objective of these mandatory undertakings is to further enhance the promotion of
biodiversity on farms by encouraging farmers to select environmental options best suited to
deliver on those environmental issues most relevant to their own farm.
Supplementary Measures
Supplementary Measure 1 Wild Bird Habitat
The associated habitats of many threatened wild bird species have developed through
farming practices carried out over the centuries and their existence is dependent on continued
active environmentally sensitive farming.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
landscape.
Corncrake Habitats
The corncrake is a globally threatened migratory bird which was formerly widespread
in hay meadows throughout Ireland. In recent decades it has become restricted to
wetlands and poor farmland, possibly as a result of changing farming practices.
The objective of this supplementary measure is to enhance the habitat structure and
availability of breeding sites for wild birds thus delivering on the priority themes of
biodiversity and assisting nature in coping with climate change.
Supplementary Measure 2 Traditional Irish Orchard.
Many varieties of native Irish top fruit trees in existence were presumed extinct. This measure
will provide an incentive to ensure the survival of this unique resource. Native varieties of top
fruit trees may help to develop through plant breeding techniques new cultivars or increase
the disease resistance properties of modern varieties. These orchards will also create habitat
in and around farmyards for wildlife to exploit.
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to support our plant genetic resource by
creating orchards containing traditional varieties of native Irish fruit trees.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
landscape.
10
Supplementary Measure 3 Conservation of Animal Genetic Resources
Local animal breeds play a significant role in maintaining the rural environment. Supporting
the conservation of these genetic resources will allow for the long-term survival of this
valuable genetic material, which could otherwise become extinct. These genetic resources
represent a significant element of the cultural heritage of farming in Ireland.
The objective of this supplementary measure is to assist farmers participating in REPS to rear
farm animals of local breeds, indigenous to the area, that are in danger of being lost to
farming.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity.
Supplementary Measure 4 Riparian Zones
Many Irish rivers and their tributaries contain salmonid spawning grounds and other important
aquatic species such as Freshwater Pearl Mussel and Freshwater Crayfish. The development
of riparian zones provides a suitable habitat for flora and fauna that sustain food webs
important in the river ecosystem.
The objective of this supplementary measure is to provide shade to overly exposed
designated river channels and water bodies, to stabilise riverbanks and to intercept nutrients
transported in overland flow.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
water quality.
Supplementary Measure 5 LINNET (Land Invested in Nature, Natural Eco-Tillage)
Habitats
Over the past three decades, farming enterprises have become increasingly specialised in
response to market demands. This has resulted in a decline in traditional mixed farming
systems. These changes, together with a reduced acreage of spring cereals, have led to a
reduction in the populations of farmland bird species because of a reduced food supply over
winter.
The objective of this supplementary measure is to mitigate the trend of landscape
homogenisation and simplification by encouraging the small-scale production of cereal plots,
especially in areas dominated by grassland.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity.
11
Supplementary Measure 6 Low Input Cereals
Farming enterprises have become increasingly specialised in response to market demands.
This has resulted in a decline in traditional mixed farming systems. These changes, together
with a reduced acreage of spring cereals, have led to a reduction in the populations of
farmland bird species because of a reduced food supply over winter.
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to encourage the production of low input spring
cereals in grassland dominated farms by allowing stubble regeneration over the winter after
harvest providing winter feed for birds and wildlife.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and
landscape and support an increase in farmland bird populations.
Supplementary Measure 7 Minimum-Tillage
For REPS purposes minimum-tillage is taken to be the non-inversion of the soil for the
purpose of crop establishment.
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to encourage the use of minimum tillage
practices thus increasing soil organic matter and improving soil structure.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity,
water quality and climate change.
Supplementary Measure 8 Traditional Sustainable Grazing
Certain grassland habitats have developed through farming practices carried out over the
centuries and their existence is dependent on continued active environmentally sensitive
grazing practices using traditional breeds of cattle and sheep.
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to maintain farming activity on specific
grassland habitats that are most in danger of abandonment.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
water quality.
.
Supplementary Measure 9 Incorporation of Clover into Grassland Swards
White clover has the potential to half the amount of chemical nitrogen used on the majority of
grassland farms in Ireland and also to increase the biodiversity of predominantly grassland
swards.
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to contribute to the delivery of water quality
by promoting the incorporation of clover into grassland swards thus reducing the dependency
on nitrogenous fertilisers.
12
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of water quality and
biodiversity.
Supplementary Measure 10 Mixed Grazing.
Maintaining or introducing a grazing regime with a mix of herbivores enhances the biodiversity
of many grassland habitats. Pastures grazed by mixed species produce a more diverse sward
both in structure and height. The synergy between the grazing habits of cattle and sheep is well
recognised and the resultant sward structure provides environmental opportunity for both flora
and fauna to exploit be it by birds, invertebrates, grass species or wild flowers. The tradition of
this type of mixed grazing is found predominantly among the more extensive grassland farmers.
The objective of this measure is to maintain and increase biodiversity on grassland by
encouraging mixed grazing. The measure is available to farmers who graze both bovines and
ovines in a structured way that is targeted to deliver diverse swards.
Supplementary Measure 11 Lake Catchments
The restrictions on fertiliser applications in proximity to water bodies under the general
scheme provisions contribute positively to water quality.
However in some specific lake
catchments additional environmental management can contribute to enhanced water quality.
Improved water quality can enhance the social and economic vitality of rural communities
through the development of recreational and amenity potential.
A measure is proposed under Axis 4 of the RDP using a bottom-up approach to include all
stakeholders in developing local strategies for the management of lake catchments. When
management strategies are fully developed it will be mandatory for REPS to comply with the
strategy under agri-environment (this may result in a slight variation of the current
presentation of this supplementary measure). In the interim, to complement and assist in the
development of management strategies for the agricultural sector, it is proposed to make
available as part of the REPS scheme a voluntary supplementary measure in the catchments
of specific lakes. This supplementary measure will be available on a limited and voluntary
basis and will initially be introduced on a pilot basis in the Corrib catchment in the west of
Ireland.
This measure will be delivered in a manner that complements but does not overlap with the
two proposed interventions under the Operational Programmes of the Regional Assemblies
concerning a water source protection measure and treatment programme for local group
water schemes. No payments will be made to any individuals concerning interventions under
Axis 4 (LEADER).
The objective of this supplementary measure is to contribute to cross-sectoral actions aimed
at improving water quality.
13
Supplementary Measure 12 Heritage Buildings.
Traditional farm buildings can make a significant positive contribution to the Irish landscape.
Many of the older buildings were laid out using local tried and tested materials, built to
patterns and arrangements that made optimum use of resources. They survived and were
maintained using simple materials and ingenious repairs, all of which add up to a culture of
resourceful care and pride.
The objective of this supplementary measure is to ensure that a number of traditional farm
buildings, which contribute to the visual landscape and are of historical/ architectural value,
will be maintained into the future.
Grants of up to €25,000 will be available to carry out approved conservation works to the
exterior of farm outbuildings (roof, outside surface of walls, windows and doors) and
associated structures (historic yard surfaces, landscape features around the farmyard e.g.
walls, gate pillars). The traditional farm buildings must have architectural or vernacular
heritage character, make a contribution to their setting and not be overwhelmed by largescale modern buildings. Dwelling houses will not qualify under this supplementary measure.
Traditional farm buildings which were built for a purpose associated with agriculture and
which are still capable of being used for an agricultural purpose will be considered for support
under this measure.
All applications will be processed and assessed by the Irish Heritage Council who will select
projects qualifying for grant aid under this measure.
14
DRAWING UP A REPS 4 PLAN
Introduction
An approved planner drawing up a REPS plan must prepare the plan in accordance with this
Manual and the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme.
To assist the Planner and provide clarity of information for the participant, the scheme
requirements under each Measure are divided into a number of sections as follows:

Introduction to the Measure (including on site assessment of the farm).

Plan Preparation.

Mapping and Plan Requirements.
The specific requirements including Mandatory Biodiversity Options (REPS Options) are
summarised in the Table below:
Summary of Mandatory Biodiversity Options
BIODIVERSITY
DESCRIPTION
CATEGORY
Traditional Hay Meadows
Species Rich Grassland
Use of Clover in Grassland Swards
Use of Trailing Shoe Technology
Control of Invasive Species
Increased Watercourse Margin
Exclude all bovine access to
watercourses
Use of Planted Buffer Zones
Creation of a New Habitat
Broad Leaved Tree Planting
Nature Corridors
Farm Woodland Establishment
Hedgerow Coppicing
Hedgerow Laying
New Hedgerow Establishment.
Additional Stonewall Maintenance
Increase in Archaeological Buffer
Margins
Traditional Irish Orchards
Bird and Bat Boxes
Green Cover Establishment
Environmental Management of Setaside
Increased Arable Margins
Low Input Spring Cereals
Minimum-tillage
Category 1 and/or Category 2
Category 1 and/or Category 2
Category 1
Category 2
Category 2
Category 2
Category 2
OPTION
2A
2B
2C
2D
2E
3A
3B
3C
4A
4B
4C
4D
5A
5B
5C
5D
7A
8A
8B
9A
9B
9C
9D
9E
Category 2
Category 1
Category 2
Category 2
Category 1
Category 1
Category 1
Category 1
Category 1
Category 2
Category 1 or Category 2
Category 1 or Category 2.
Category 1 and/or Category 2
Category 1
Category 1 and/or Category 2
Category 1
Category 1 and/or Category 2
Excluding farmers with derogations under SI 378 of 2006 (nitrates derogations), participants
in REPS must select a minimum of two Options, one of which must be from Category 1.
15
Participants with nitrates derogations must select a minimum of three Options, two of which
must be from Category 1.
The Biodiversity Options chosen by a REPS participant cannot be changed during the course
of the REPS plan.
In addition, farms with grassland are required to select and implement a mandatory
environmental undertaking as outlined under Measure 2.
Where on environmental grounds, the Biodiversity Options available are deemed to be
inappropriate to the holding, variations of the environmental requirements should be proposed
by the REPS Planner on a case-by-case basis and following derogation included in the REPS
plan e.g. additional tree planting under Option 4B.
It is possible for a participant to choose either one or a pro rata mix of the Options 5A, 5B, 5C
and 5D.
Options 2A and 2B may be calculated on the basis of 24% of contract area up to 4.8 hectares
to be considered a Category 1 option.
Biodiversity Options are not required on Conservation Lands (NHA, SAC, SPA,
Commonages). The Conservation Lands should be excluded when calculating an applicant’s
Option requirement.
REPS 3 participants transforming to REPS 4 must complete their existing biodiversity options
in addition to the option requirements in REPS 4.
General Planning Guidelines
The Planner must remind farmers of their legal responsibilities under cross compliance,
SMRs and National and EU legislation. If the farmer cannot comply with these legal
obligations and the REP Scheme requirements, then the farmer is not eligible to participate in
REPS. There are a number of general planning guidelines that apply in preparing any REPS
Plan. These general planning guidelines are divided into desk procedure; field procedure
guidelines and general plan preparation.
Desk Procedure by Planner
Prior to the farm visit the planner should consult relevant available information relating to
environmental issues in the region where the farm is located. This information may include
EPA water quality data; http://www.epa.ie/rivermap/data/rivmaptop.html, NPWS or Local
Authority data on biodiversity, Birdwatch Ireland and the Record of Monuments and Places.
This will allow the planner to provide sufficient context and background information on the
environmental themes relevant to the farm and the conservation objectives to be considered
in the REPS plan.
16
Field Procedure by Planner

Discuss with the farmer his/her current farming system and the future plans including
any proposed investments and the environmental themes relevant to the farm. The
Planner must be satisfied that the lands declared for REPS meet the eligibility criteria
set out in the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme. (Where Milk Production
Partnerships are in place; see Appendix 10)

Walk all the lands with the farmer and establish the external boundaries of the farm.

Identify potential soil sampling sites.

Note and mark on map all exclusions for the calculation of area for payment.

Note all aspects of the farm as they relate to the Scheme and Agri-Environmental plan
requirements set out in this specification for each Measure.

All lands farmed by the applicant(s) must be included in the Agri-Environmental plan. All
lands owned by the applicant that are leased or rented out must also be detailed in the
plan.

Further discuss with the farmer the conservation objectives of the farm and the most
appropriate choice of Biodiversity Options that meet the requirement (where
appropriate) of selecting two mandatory biodiversity REPS Options or three mandatory
biodiversity REPS Options in the case of farmers with a nitrates derogation.

Discuss with the farmer his/her interest in participating in the Supplementary Measures.
On the basis of the information furnished the farmer should be advised whether
participation in the Scheme is feasible.
General Plan Preparation
When all information is collected, the planner in consultation with the farmer is in a position to
prepare the plan.
The planner must explain the scheme objectives and the agri-environmental requirements to
the farmer, identifying those areas which require changes in his/her current farming practices to
deliver on the environmental priority areas of water quality, biodiversity, landscape and climate
change e.g. changes in fertiliser usage, land use, cropping system, alterations to hedgerow
management.
The plan must:

Set out the current status of the farm as it relates to the agri-environmental plan
requirements set out in this specification.

Identify by reference to the farm map the features that require to be protected, maintained
and managed.

Include a nutrient management plan that specifies limits for Nitrogen and Phosphorus from
organic and other fertilisers. The tonnage of lime to be applied each year must also be set
out.
17

Set out a programme of works to be undertaken by the farmer. Works under each
individual measure must be clearly set out in the plan. Specific work to be undertaken and
the time scale for its execution must be clearly set out.

Set out the requirements for Biodiversity Options and Supplementary Measures where
applicable.

Require setaside land to be managed in accordance with EU requirements in addition to
REPS requirements. As set-aside can vary from year to year the planner must take
account of the set-aside as it exists at the time the plan is prepared. The farmer must be
advised that any changes in the area under set-aside at the time of application for second
or subsequent payments must be declared.

Be accompanied by any required documentation and/or undertakings.

Be accompanied by a REPS map prepared in accordance with the requirements of these
Specifications and the Terms and Conditions of the REP Scheme and identify all of the
lands farmed.

Map Scales:
o
For maps produced and annotated using the e-REPS Mapping System, the scales
acceptable are 1:2500, 1:5000 and 1:10000. The planner must choose the scale
most appropriate to the field size that ensures legibility. Plans containing maps that
are not clearly legible will be rejected.
o
REPS Mapping System maps annotated by hand must be 1:2500 scale or 1:10000
for hill areas.
o

The only acceptable Ordnance Survey Maps are 1:2500 or 1:10560 for hill areas.
Unauthorised photocopies of Ordnance Survey maps are not acceptable
The farmer must be informed that a Single Farm Payment application must be made
every year of the REPS contract, to allow continued processing of annual payment
applications.
Field numbering and feature identification system

All fields/plots included in the plan must be identified on the map by the current Land
Parcel Identification Number assigned under the Integrated Administrative Control
System (IACS).

Each field/plot must be numbered sequentially, irrespective of townland, numbering
from west to east and north to south.

Where REPS Plans and maps are amended, and new plots are added, numbering
should continue in sequence in the amended plan from the highest number in the
original plan. If plots are removed from the original plan, the remaining plots retain their
previous plot number in the amended plan. Where plots are removed and where new
plots are added numbering of such new plots should continue in sequence from the
highest plot number used in the original plan.

Where in the course of the farm survey it is found that:
18
o
A fence shown on the map has been removed, the previously separate fields
must be given one number - field or plot fences removed must be indicated on
the farm map by short parallel lines thus // at intervals on the removed fence.
o
A removed watercourse must be shown thus X.
o
A permanent fence not shown on the map is in place; the location of this fence
must be shown on the farm map by a broken line thus -------------
o
A watercourse not shown on the map must be noted with blue colouring
o An area within a field or plot has, for whatever reason; to be referred to
specifically in the agri-environmental farm plan such an area must be surveyed.
Any permanent boundary marked by broken line
-------------,
with any
temporary boundary noted by a dotted line ••••••••••.
o
The area thus enclosed must be identified as a sub-plot to the main plot; for
example in field or plot 2 in townland Ballinagall there is habitat such as an old
ruin, woodland, wetland, area used by migratory birds, corncrake breeding
area, national heritage area etc., this should be identified as a sub-plot and
referred to as such in the agri-environmental plan.
o
Specific points or boundaries must be identified by appropriate labelling and
referred to in the REPS plan e.g. traditional gate and stone piers in Plot 4. Plant
a new hedgerow along western boundary of Plot 5, between points X-Y.
Areas Excluded from the Basic Payment

Areas identified for Supplementary Measure 4, Supplementary Measure 5 and
Supplementary Measure 6 of REPS, Riparian Zones, LINNET habitats and Low Input
Cereals respectively) must be marked S/M Excld on the map. Each part of the plot or field
within this area must be numbered as set out and referred to as such in all documentation.
Areas Excluded from All Payment

The area under non-rotational set-aside must be marked Setaside. Where such areas are
bounded by a permanent fence not shown on the farm map they must be marked on the
map by broken lines
----------
(or by
••••••••••
if bounded by a temporary fence).
Each part of the plot or field within this area must be numbered as set out and referred to as
such in all documentation.

Commercial forestry areas (including FEPS) must be edged red and marked C/F excld.

Conacre lands taken must be marked C/L on map(s).

Where the un-expired period of land leased in is less than 5 years it must be marked L<5.
19
All of the areas detailed above are excluded in the calculation of payment area but are subject
to all Measures except Measures 3 and 5; however, all rented land must be stock proofed.
Map Colour Code

External boundaries are edged in red.

Watercourses and ponds are shown by blue colouring.

Expansive waters such as lakes are shaded blue and are excluded from payment.

A well is marked W in small circle and shaded blue.

Hedgerows subject to Measure 5 are shown by a yellow line.

Stonewalls subject to Measure 5 are shown by a green line.

Areas excluded in the calculation of payment area are edged red and marked as set out above.

All Natura 2000 lands must be outlined in orange, or hatched in orange if using e-REPS.

Privately owned or commonage designated NHA lands must be outlined in purple or hatched in
purple if using e-REPS

Undesignated Commonage lands must be outlined in brown or hatched in brown if using eREPS system.
Map identification label
Each map submitted with an agri-environment plan must have townland(s) name(s) clearly
marked and bear a fully completed identification label and must be certified by the planner as
indicated on sample label below or as printed on maps produced by the REPS Mapping
System.
Planner
Official Use
Farmer
Ref:
Townland (O.S.)
County
I certify that this map has been compiled in accordance
with REPS instructions as set out in the Specification for
REPS Planners
Signed
Date
Planner
20
Integration of Forestry and REPS
The objective of identifying areas suitable for afforestation in the REPS plan is to raise
farmers’ awareness of forestry as an alternative land use option which can be integrated with
REPS to achieve agricultural, environmental and socio-economic benefits. This objective has
been enhanced by the arrival of FEPS - the Forest Environment Protection Scheme - which
has been created by this Department specifically with REPS farmers in mind, to encourage
the establishment of high-nature-value woodland on REPS land. Farmers who have a specific
interest in optimising timber production, may find the regular Afforestation Scheme more
attractive.
It is a condition of participating in REPS that the planner, in consultation with the farmer, must
identify areas of the farm appropriate for afforestation based on environmental, agricultural,
forestry and socio-economic grounds.
Any afforestation of land should be designed to provide additional environmental benefits, to
offer greater habitat area overall, and to enhance biodiversity.
In assessing the suitability of lands for afforestation the planner must take into consideration

Soil type

Climatic conditions

Exposure of site

Existing habitats

Existing archaeological or historical features

Natural contours of the land

Visual impact

Complementarity of afforestation to the REPS objectives.
In identifying suitable areas planners should respect the following basic guidelines –

All Natura 2000 and NHA areas must be excluded from consideration for afforestation
except where the NPWS recommend otherwise e.g. Riparian woodland.

Habitats listed for retention under Measure 4 must be excluded from consideration for
afforestation except in the case of non-grassland habitats listed under Measure 4 where
they are incorporated into FEPS.

Planners should then identify approximately 10% to 20% of the remainder of the farm that
would be most suitable, in their opinion, based on environmental considerations, for
afforestation.

Planners should assure REPS applicants that the identification of areas most suitable for
forestry does not place any obligation on the farmer to plant the land.
The planting of broadleaf species on REPS farms will be encouraged, in line with promoting
biodiversity and the preservation of high nature value farming and forestry systems. From a
climate change perspective, carbon sequestration from new forestry will also reduce
emissions of greenhouse gases.
21
Application Procedure
The planner and the farmer should ensure that the following is completed.
Documents to be submitted to the Department of Agriculture and Food when making an
application to join REPS 4.

REPS Application Form

Agri-environmental plan.

Any other required REPS forms where applicable.

1 set of farm map(s) produced by the eREPS Mapping System or Ordnance Survey
1:2500 scale. (1:10560 (6") maps are adequate for extensive areas such as
commonages and hill farms.)

Soil analysis reports certified by the REPS Planner1.

Farmyard sketch.

Supplementary Measure(s) documents where applicable.

A copy of current Single Farm Payment application.
A REPS application must be submitted within six months of the preparation of the REPS plan.
The planner must ensure that the participant receives a copy of the Farmer’s Handbook for
REPS 4 and the Terms and Conditions of the Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS
4). When the REPS plan is finalised the planner should discuss the contents of the completed
plan with the applicant and ensure the applicant understands and is familiar with its contents.
The planner must issue the applicant with a copy of the plan and supporting documents for
reference with the Farmer’s Handbook for REPS 4 and the Terms and Conditions of the Rural
Environmental Protection Scheme.
Documents to be retained by the Farmer

A copy of all of the documentation listed above

A copy of the REPS 4 Farmers Handbook.

A copy of the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme.

Any documentation required to establish the eligibility of the lands declared for REPS.
1
Where not available, Agri-environmental plans may be prepared and submitted provided the
Planner specifies Phosphorus limits as for the target index set out in Table 4. It should be
stated in the “Comments by Planner” Section of the REPS plan that soil samples will be taken
as soon as possible and original soil analysis results together with an amended REPS plan (if
required) submitted with the second year application for payment.
22
Amendments to Agri-environmental Plans
The requirement to amend a REPS plan may be necessitated:

Where the planned stocking density is increased by 10% or more or decreased by
20% or more. This requirement is only applicable where there is a change of more
than 2 livestock units.

Where the plan is found to be deficient,

Where additional land is acquired by inheritance, purchase or lease (see
Paragraph 14 of Terms and Conditions).

Where the contract area is reduced by more than 2 hectares,

Where there is a change in the main farming activity of the holding.
Where a plan is amended, it is essential to give the reason for amendment and include any
relevant documentation e.g. soil test reports, appropriate required REPS forms, maps etc with
the amended plan. In some cases e.g. increase in stocking density, the amended plan alone
is sufficient.
The Department of Agriculture and Food must be notified within 6 weeks of any necessary
change to the plan and the amended plan submitted at the same time as the REPS 1C
provided the 1C is submitted on time and without penalty.
Where a change in area is not notified to the Department of Agriculture and Food through the
Single Farm Payment Application or any subsequent amendment to this application, then a
participant must submit a REPS A form to the local AES Division office within 6 weeks of the
change.
Increased area for payment
Where there is an increase in the REPS eligible area and additional payment is sought a new
5-year plan is required and must be submitted within the 6-week period prior to the next
anniversary date.
An amended plan is not required where an area of 2 ha or less is disposed of as a site, or, if
more than one site is disposed of during the five year period of the plan the total accumulated
area disposed of does not exceed 2 ha provided that:

Form REPS A is submitted within 6 weeks of the disposal.

The area disposed of is not an area to which SAC/NHA designation applies
The area for payment may be reduced.
23
Reimbursement of aid previously paid on the area may be required from the farmer where
appropriate.
Derogation Requests
Derogations from the requirements set out in the Specification for REPS Planners may be
granted in very limited and specific circumstances. Requests for derogations must be fully
documented and submitted to the appropriate Regional Inspector. It is imperative that work
which is the subject of a derogation request must not take place until approval in writing has
issued to the farmer with a copy to the planner.
Where a derogation is granted prior to acceptance into the Scheme, the letter of approval from
the Department of Agriculture and Food must accompany the farmers REPS application.
Derogation requests must not accompany applications to join the REP Scheme.
24
Measure 1
Nutrient Management
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner
with the farmer must consider the following:

The adequacy of pollution control facilities in the context of European Communities
(Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006 (including any
subsequent amendments to those regulations).

Whether all necessary animal housing and organic fertiliser storage facilities, that meet
REPS requirements, can be in place before the first winter after acceptance into the
Scheme. (In the case of feed storage facilities, these must be in place before the first
silage-making season after acceptance into the Scheme).

The current land use and farming system.

Soil sampling areas.

Areas of the farm on which nutrient application must be restricted.

The Commonage Framework Plan to establish the stocking limits for commonage
areas.

Farming prescriptions for designated SAC, SPA and NHA lands.
Plan Preparation under Measure 1
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
a. Adequacy of Farm Buildings and Yards
b. Adequacy of Storage Facilities for Organic fertilisers
c.
Nutrient Management Plan
d. Management of Stored Organic fertilisers
A
Adequacy of Farm Buildings and Yards
Full details, including dimensions, of animal housing, open yards (including milking parlour
collecting yards) ancillary to housing which are soiled by livestock, sheep handling facilities
and all other farm buildings must be stated on the plan. The Planner must state the type and
use of all structures e.g. loose house, cubicle house, slatted house/easy feed or open yard
fed, cow byre, calf house, sheep house (slatted or bedded) etc.
A suitably drawn and labelled sketch of the farmyard layout and any outlying facilities is
required in all cases. Flow directions, including silage effluent flow must be shown on the
sketch. The sketch should be on a separate page(s) and attached to the plan.
The sketch must include the location of proposed buildings necessary for pollution control to
avoid plan amendment at a later date (buildings required to be completed prior to the first
winter).
25
Observations in the plan on existing facilities should include information on how animal organic
fertiliser produced in each house or yard listed is stored.
Planned requirements must include any repairs to buildings and facilities, including such items
as:

The minimisation of soiled concrete yard areas.

The separation of soiled and clean water.

The laying of concrete floors to existing gravel floored or unsurfaced loose-bedded
houses for cattle and horses.

Any necessary repairs to roofs, gutters, downpipes, channels, drains, floors, silage
bases etc.
Where an agri-environmental plan stipulates the construction of animal housing and yard
facilities, it is advised that these should be constructed to Department of Agriculture and Food
specifications. This specification, and current information on grant aid, are available from AES
Division local offices.
Cattle out wintering pads that are either grant aided by the Department of Agriculture and Food
or certified by an engineer as being in conformance with Local Authority and Department of
Agriculture and Food specifications for such constructions are acceptable.
B
Adequacy of Organic Fertiliser and Ensiled Forage Storage Facilities
This section elaborates on the requirements under Part 2 and Schedule 2 of SI 378 of 2006.
All new and existing facilities for the storage of organic fertilisers, ensiled forage and other crops
must be structurally sound and leak-proof. Planned storage facilities must comply with the
requirements as set out in SI 378 of 2006 and Appendix 2/3. In any situation the planner must
clearly specify the core-animal housing period on the farm. Membrane lined earth bank lagoons
and earth lined lagoons that are either grant aided by the Department of Agriculture and Food or
certified as being in conformance with Local Authority and Department of Agriculture and Food
specifications for such constructions by the installing company, are acceptable. Reed beds do
not meet REPS requirements.
To reduce the volume of effluents to be stored and handled, clean water and soiled water must
be kept separate. All existing effluent channels and drains must be adequate in size and leakproof. The storage capacity for effluent from ensiled forage and other crops must meet the
requirements detailed in Appendix 2.
The storage capacity required for organic fertilisers from all sources having regard to location,
method of storage, soil type etc., should be carefully calculated and compared with the storage
capacity existing on the farm. In calculating capacities required, the rainfall figures given for
26
each county in Appendix 2 must be used. The capacity of all facilities, including planned
facilities, must be clearly stated on the plan.
In the case of straw-bedded houses the amount of straw to be used for bedding must be clearly
stated. Where this is less than that required to absorb all the urine, a storage tank of adequate
capacity for the excess must be provided.
Reduced Storage Capacity for Manure Produced by Grazing Livestock
Reduced capacity can be planned for by making use of outwintering, which is defined as
grazing in the period in which the application of organic fertilisers (other than FYM) is
prohibited, subject to the following:

Deer, goats or sheep are outwintered at a grassland stocking rate not exceeding 85
kgs N/ha.

Bovines (excluding dairy cows) and equines are outwintered at a grassland stocking
rate not exceeding 85 kgs N/ha.

The amount of livestock manure produced on the holding does not exceed 140 kgs
N/ha/year

The requirements for outwintering in Measure 2 are followed.
Capacity reduction may also be planned for where:

A contract is in place for exclusive access to adequate alternative capacity located
outside the holding.

A contract is in place for access to a treatment facility for livestock manure

A contract is in place with an authorised person/body who undertakes the collection,
recovery and disposal of the manure
Reduction in storage capacity is proportionate to the extent of outwintered livestock on the
holding or volume exported under contract.
Note: Reduced capacity through outwintering is not applicable to dairy cows
27
Farm Yard Manure
Where FYM is traditionally taken on to land and stored in a compact heap for composting this
practice may continue provided the manure is stored in accordance with SI 378 of 2006 and
the following buffer zones are respected.
FYM Storage Buffer Zones
Water body/Feature
The extraction point of any water supply source providing 100m 3 or more of
Buffer zone
250 metres
water per day, or serving 500 or more people
The extraction point of any water supply source providing 10m 3 or more of water
250 metres
per day, or serving 50 or more people
The extraction point of any other water supply for human consumption
50 metres
Lake shoreline
20 metres
Exposed cavernous or karstified limestone features (such as swallow holes and
50 metres
collapse features)
Any surface watercourse where the slope towards the watercourse exceeds 10%
10 metres
Any other watercourse
10 metres
Any open drain or where the area of land adjacent to the watercourse is a narrow
10 metres
parcel of land less than 50 metres wide and not more than 1 hectare in area
Public Road
50 metres
Soiled Water
Soiled water is as defined in sub-article 3(2) of SI 378 of 2006. A farmer must take all
reasonable steps as are necessary to minimise the amount of soiled water produced on the
holding. Soiled water is normally disposed by landspreading and this can take place all the
year round where conditions are suitable and pollution risks are minimal. See appendix 3.
Landspreading must be deferred where soils are saturated.
C
Nutrient Management Plan
In preparing a nutrient management plan, the planner must establish the current farming system
and systematically evaluate all of the nutrient sources available on the farm including all
manures produced, imported and/or exported. The planner must then establish the baseline soil
fertility of the farm, analyse the nutrient requirements related to the various land uses on the
farm and set limits on the application rates of chemical fertilisers and organic fertilisers, which
meet these needs and the specifications of a Nutrient Management Plan set out below.
1. Soil Sampling
The planner must establish a baseline soil fertility for the farm by appropriate soil sampling and
analysis. Soil sampling is required by all REPS participants before the end of the first year on
lands that are in receipt of chemical fertilisers and/or applied animal or other organic fertiliser.
28
(Appendix 1 details the approved sampling procedure and the approved soil analysis
laboratories).
The farmer and the planner must establish the sampling areas before taking soil samples and
take representative soil samples as deemed necessary to establish a baseline soil fertility.
These areas will be identified and selected on the basis of such characteristics as soil type,
previous cropping and fertilising history. A sample should normally be taken from every 2-4
hectares. Exceptionally where soil types are similar and cropping and treatment of lands were
the same during the previous five years or more; a sample area of up to 12 hectares may be
acceptable for non-derogated holdings. Peat and mineral soils must never be mixed in a soil
sample. Peat soils are soils that are 10cm or greater in depth and with an average of 20%
organic matter2.
In situations where chemical Phosphorus and Potassium and/or animal or other organic
fertilisers have been applied to land, the standard recommendation is that soil samples should
not be taken for at least 3 months from the date of such application. In these situations, agrienvironmental plans may be prepared and submitted provided the Planner assumes soils to
be at Index 3 and recommends chemical Phosphorus limits as for the target index set out in
Table 4. It should be stated in the “Comments by Planner” Section of the REPS plan that soil
samples will be taken as soon as possible and original soil analysis results together with an
amended REPS plan (if required) submitted with the second year application for payment.
In the case of conacre there is no requirement to take soil samples provided the planner
specifies phosphorus limits at or below maintenance levels.
A planner may accept soil analysis results where the results are certified by an approved
planner and analysed by an approved laboratory in the two years preceding the signing of the
plan by the planner. With the exception of nitrates derogation participants, repeat soil samples
must be taken once in every five and a half years. Repeat soil samples should be taken from
the same sampling area as that selected for the original REPS plan where appropriate. Those
REPS participants availing of a nitrates derogation must abide by the soil analysis
requirements of such a derogation.
2. Nutrient Limits
General Requirements
In calculating the amount of Organic and Chemical nutrients used on the farm, the planner must
refer to the European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters)
Regulations 2006 (including any subsequent amendments to those regulations).
To calculate the amount of Nitrogen and Phosphorus from grazing and non-grazing livestock on
the farm, the average livestock numbers planned for the farm must be established. Account
2Laboratory
analysis must confirm the content of organic matter where P fertiliser is being applied to
peat soils.
29
must also be taken of any animal or other organic fertilisers imported or exported onto or from
the farm.
The nitrogen from livestock on the farm must not exceed 110% of the planned levels and at no
time can the permitted level of nitrogen from livestock on the farm and other imported livestock
based fertilisers (including spent mushroom compost (SMC) applied on the farm exceed 170
Kg/ha except where a derogation under SI 378 of 2006 already exists.
Organic fertiliser includes livestock manure, dungstead manure, farmyard manure, slurry,
soiled water in contact with livestock manure (dirty water), non-farm organic substances such as
sewage sludge, SMC, industrial by-products and sludges and residues from fish farms.
Imported organic fertilisers are those directly brought onto the farm from an outside source or
produced on the farm by animals that have been fed on fodder produced on another farm.
Where imported organic fertiliser is applied to farmland, application must be in accordance
with the requirements set out in Measure 1 for grassland and the nutrient content of this
material (N & P) must replace any or all of the chemical N & P allocated to the REPS farm.
Exported organic fertilisers are those that are produced on a REPS farm and utilised on
another REPS farm. These organic fertilisers can only be exported to participants in REPS, with
the exception of the following:

Poultry farmers who have contracts to supply manure to composting plants.

Stud farmers who have contracts to supply stable bedding to other livestock
producers and to composting plants.

Mushroom producers who supply spent compost on contract to composters.

Where a contract is in place for access to a treatment facility for livestock organic
fertiliser.

Where a contract is in place with an authorised person/body who undertakes the
collection, recovery and disposal of the organic fertiliser.
See Appendix 2/3 for details of nutrient composition and quantities produced. In the case of pig
and poultry manures, the composition may be specified in a certificate issued by the
Environmental Protection Agency or the Department of Agriculture and Food, in relation to that
livestock manure.
The total nitrogen and phosphorus from animal organic fertilisers, together with the total amount
of other nitrogen and phosphorus (both organic and chemical) available for use on the farm
must be specified in the plan.
Nitrogen
Grassland
Based on the established soil sample areas, the planner must estimate and specify the land
potential (organic N potential per hectare) of these areas using the following criteria:
30
o
Rainfall
o
Altitude
o
Slope
o
Soil type: Mineral, peat, gley etc.
o
Soil depth
o
Vegetation
o
The environmental sensitivity of such area(s).

River flood plain.

Fields adjacent to river or watercourses.
In any case this land potential can never exceed 170 kgs of Organic Nitrogen per hectare.
The planner must allocate the nitrogen from the planned grazing livestock on the holding (i.e.
stocking rate) relative to the estimated land potential for each soil sample area. Excluding
derogation farms, the planned grazing livestock can never exceed 170 kgs of livestock manure
per hectare. Based on this stocking rate and the estimated land potential, the planner must set
down the Nitrogen requirement for grassland for each soil sample area. In any situation, the
maximum level of chemical nitrogen, which can be applied to grassland, can never be greater
than that produced from the planned stocking rate (kgs. Livestock manure/ha) applied on the
same area.
Organic fertilisers (i.e. that produced from non grazing livestock on the farm or imports of
organic fertiliser) can replace some or all of the nitrogen allowed to be used on the farm. The
available N in these fertilisers must be taken into account when calculating the net chemical N
to be used on the farm. Table 1 below sets out Nitrogen availability for different types of organic
and chemical fertilisers.
Table 1 Nitrogen availability in fertilisers
Organic Fertiliser Type
% Availability
Pig and poultry manure
50
Farmyard manure
30
Spent mushroom compost
45
Cattle and other livestock manure (including that
40
produced on the holding)
The figures in Table 1 above do not prohibit the planner from using the relevant availability
figures in Table 9 of European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of
Waters) Regulations 2006; and amending the REPS plan at each change of nitrogen availability
as set out in Table 9 of SI 378 of 2006.
31
Hay and Silage Crops
Farmers who cut hay/silage for sale and are unable to import organic nitrogen or have very
low levels of organic nitrogen per hectare (< 60kg organic Nitrogen/ha) may apply a maximum
of 58 kg of chemical nitrogen per hectare to the hay/silage area.
Tillage Crops
For tillage crops, the Nitrogen Index must be established for each sampling area by the planner
using the guidelines set out in Appendix 2. To calculate the nitrogen requirement of tillage
crops the planned cropping system must be established. This together with the N index must be
stated on the REPS plan.
The following nitrogen limits are applicable where different types and/or combinations of
fertilisers are used on tillage crops:

The maximum allowed level of nitrogen per hectare for tillage crops is shown in
Table 2. For all other crops not detailed in Table 2, the maximum permitted level of
chemical nitrogen is 70% of the level outlined in SI 378 of 2006. Alternatively, farmers
may use 100% of the tillage crop requirements for nitrogen if they undertake to
setaside 6% of their arable area for land use under LINNET management subject to a
maximum requirement of 2.4 hectares. If LINNET management as per the
specifications of SM 5 is chosen under Measure 1, it does not benefit from additional
SM payments.

Organic fertilisers (including organic fertiliser from grazing livestock on the farm) may
be used to replace some or all of the allowed nitrogen. In this case the nitrogen in these
materials available to a crop in the year of application are as set out in Table 1 above.
For REPS purposes the nitrogen and phosphorus in other organic fertilisers (e.g.
sewage sludge) is deemed to be 100% available.

A maximum of 170 kilograms of organic nitrogen from livestock and other livestock
manures per hectare is permitted for tillage crops provided the applied nitrogen does
not exceed the allowed levels in Table 2.
Example of Calculation of Nitrogen Requirement: In the case of fodder beet grown on
soils with an N Index of 1, receiving 100 Kg N per Ha from land spread cattle manure,
96.5 Kg per Ha of chemical N may be applied i.e. 136.5 minus 40% of 100.
32
Table 2
Maximum Fertilisation Rates of Nitrogen on Tillage Crops (70% rate)
Nitrogen Index
Crop
1
2
3
4
Allowed Nitrogen (kg/ha)
Winter Wheat
133
98
70
42
Spring Wheat
98
77
52.5
28
Winter Barley
112
94.5
70
42
Spring Barley
94.5
70
52.5
28
Winter Oats
101.5
84
59.5
31.5
Spring Oats
77
63
42
21
136.5
108.5
84
56
119
101.5
84
66.5
108.5
91
73.5
56
126
98
77
52.5
0
0
0
0
Oilseed Rape
157.5
126
112
98
Linseed
52.5
35
24.5
14
Swedes/Turnips
63
49
28
14
Kale
105
91
70
49
Forage Rape
91
84
77
63
Sugar Beet /Fodder Beet
Maincrop Potatoes
Early/Seed Potatoes
Maize
Field Peas/Beans
The specified levels of nitrogen from livestock and other organic fertilisers and from chemical
sources for the different areas of the farm must also be set out in the plan. These levels must
reflect the efficient use of nitrogen and be consistent with the planned stocking density, grazing
regime, crop type and the environmental sensitivity of the areas.
Phosphorus
For REPS purposes, if there is no valid soil analysis result available at the time of drawing up
the REPS plan for any given plot, then Index 3 is assumed. This is with the exception of plots
where it is known that the most recent soil analysis result (e.g. previous REPS plan) indicated
Index 4, in these situations Index 4 must be assumed.
Planners must set down the crop requirement for phosphorus in the REPS plan. To provide
optimum agronomic production, the desired soil index for phosphorus is Index 3. There are
situations where it is desirable to maintain a lower soil phosphorus level. For example if the
planner determines that the sample is from an area in which surface waters are at risk from
phosphorus enrichment, he/she may advise a lower phosphorus requirement on that account.
Such environmentally sensitive areas include designated SACs and NHAs where the agreed
farming conditions indicate the maintenance of low soil phosphorus levels, plots which are
steeply sloping towards a waterbody, peat soils and areas of shallow limestone soils which
are identified by the Geological Survey of Ireland as Areas of Extreme Vulnerability on Karst
Limestone Aquifers. In these environmentally sensitive areas the phosphorus fertilisation rate
must never exceed the maintenance levels for soil index 3 soils.
33
Planners must set down the target index for phosphorus in the REPS plan.
Table 3 - Maximum Phosphorus Limits for Grazing, Silage/Hay (kg/ha)
Soil
Index
P Level
Stocking rate (Kg/ha)
Mineral Soils
1
0-3 mg/l
35
39
2
3.1-5 mg/l
25
29
3
5.1-8 mg/l
15
19
4
> 8 mg/l
0
0
130
3
131 - 170
Adapted from Teagasc Nutrient and Trace Element Advice for Grassland, Tillage, Vegetable and Fruit Crops,
2nd. Edition, 2004 and SI 378 of 2006.
Based on the grassland stocking rate and the environmental sensitivity, the planner must set
down the net phosphorus requirement for grassland for each soil sample area. The net
phosphorus requirement is calculated by reducing the above phosphorus fertilisation rates by
0.5 kg phosphorus for each 100 kg of concentrated feedstuff (straight and compound) fed to
grazing livestock on the farm, in accordance with European Communities (Good Agricultural
Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006 (including any subsequent amendments
to those regulations) In addition, if there is no organic fertiliser produced on the farm over the
winter period, the above rates in Table 3 must be further reduced by the quantity of
phosphorus produced during the minimum storage period (depending on Zone).
In other situations, where livestock manure is produced over the winter period and spread on
the farm; it must be deducted from the specific field requirement to which it is applied. The
specified levels of phosphorus from grazing livestock and other imported organic fertilisers and
from chemical sources for the different areas of the farm must also be set out in the plan. These
levels must reflect the efficient use of phosphorus and be consistent with the planned stocking
density, grazing regime, crop type and the environmental sensitivity of the areas.
In any situation, the planned chemical phosphorus for grassland, cannot exceed the levels in
Table 3 less the phosphorus contained in concentrates and less the phosphorus produced by
grazing livestock over the storage period for the zone (unless such manure is exported).
Manure produced by grazing livestock on a farm may be applied to Index 4 soils on that farm in
a situation where there is a surplus of such manure remaining after the phosphorus fertilisation
needs of all crops on soils at phosphorus indices 1, 2 or 3 on the farm have been met by the
use only of such manure produced on the farm.
The fertilisation rate for peat soils must never exceed 15kg for grassland stocking rate 130 and 19kg
for grassland stocking rates between 131 and 170kg organic N.
3
34
Where organic fertilisers are imported or exported, an appropriate adjustment must be made by
the planner to the total amount of chemical phosphorus that may be applied to the farm. The
phosphorus content of imported organic fertilisers applied on the farm must be calculated and
this must be allowed for when estimating the amount of chemical phosphorus that can be used.
The availability of Phosphorus in organic fertilisers is deemed to be 100%.
Farmers who cut hay or silage for sale and are unable to import organic Nitrogen or have very
low levels of organic nitrogen per hectare (< 60 kg organic N/ha) may apply a maximum of 20kg
Phosphorus per hectare on Index 1 soils and 10kg Phosphorus per hectare on Index 2 and 3
soils.
Where the requirement for chemical phosphorus is small (10 Kg/ha or less), given the practical
difficulty of spreading such light dressings, it is permissible to omit application in any one year
and apply double the amount in the succeeding year, provided the same cropping obtains and
the limits set out in Table 3 are not exceeded.
Where reseeding is taking place and chemical fertiliser is incorporated into the seed bed
within 24 hours of reseeding, use recommended crop requirements of chemical phosphorus
to ensure the successful establishment of the new crop.
The maximum amount of phosphorus applied to tillage crops must never exceed the limits set
out in Table 4. The maximum amount of phosphorus applied to other crops must never exceed
the limits set out in Appendix 2.
Where a soil has > 20% organic matter, the Phosphorus fertilisation rates must not exceed the
amounts allowed for Index 3 soils.
Based on these phosphorus recommendations, the planner must establish the maximum
permitted level of chemical phosphorus in kilograms that can be applied, in total, to the farm.
Planners should make it clear to REPS participants that it is not necessary to apply the
maximum permitted level of chemical phosphorus to any soil sampling area and explain
that it is a serious breach of the REPS contract to apply more than the maximum
permitted level of chemical phosphorus to any soil sampling area.
35
Table 4
Maximum Fertilisation Rates Of Phosphorus On Tillage Crops
Phosphorus Index4
0.0 – 3.0 mg/l
Crop
1
3.1-6.0 mg/l 6.1 – 10.0 mg/l >10.0 mg/l
2
3
4
Phosphorus (kg/ha)
Winter Wheat
45
35
25
0
Spring Wheat
45
35
25
0
Winter Barley
45
35
25
0
Spring Barley
45
35
25
0
Oats (Winter & Spring)
45
35
25
0
Sugar Beet
70
55
40
20
Fodder Beet
70
55
40
20
Potatoes: Main crop
125
100
75
50
Potatoes: Early
125
115
100
50
Potatoes: Seed
125
115
100
85
Maize
70
50
40
0
Field Peas
40
25
20
0
Field Beans
50
40
20
0
Oil Seed Rape
35
30
20
0
Linseed
35
30
20
0
Swedes/Turnips
70
60
40
40
Kale
60
50
30
0
Forage Rape
40
30
20
0
Lime
In the interests of minimising the requirements for other nutrients and controlling acidification of
water resources, a pH of 6.5 for mineral soils and 5.5 for peat soils is the target. For beet, beans
and peas the pH target is 7. On high molybdenum soils planners should reduce the lime
requirement by 5 tonnes per hectare. In soils derived from carboniferous shales, the planner
may reduce the lime requirement by up to 5 tonnes per hectare. In any case on carboniferous
shales that are located in high molybdenum areas, the overall maximum reduction allowed is 5
tonnes per hectare. This must also be stated in the “Comments by Planner” section of the plan.
If the soil analysis results show a lime requirement of 1 tonne per hectare or less there is no
requirement to apply lime. Lime must not be applied to blanket bogs, raised bogs or heather
moorland.
The planner may exercise discretion in relation to the liming of lands that are extensively farmed
or marginal in nature. The maximum permitted level of chemical N per hectare (on a field or
plot) that may be used on grassland, where this discretion is exercised, is 40kg per hectare per
4
The fertilisation rates for peat soils shall not exceed the amounts permitted for Index 3 soils.
36
annum. Where this discretion is exercised, it must be stated in the plan under “Comments by
Planner”.
The maximum amount of lime that can be spread over the duration of a 5 year period is 12
tonnes per hectare. In any case, a single lime dressing should not exceed 6 tonnes per hectare.
Any ground limestone material must meet all of the requirements (i.e. T.N.V., fineness, moisture
content) for ground limestone as laid down in S.I. 248 of 1978. Burnt/hydrated lime and sugar
factory lime may also be used.
The liming materials Gran-Lime, Granucal and Physiolith are permitted to be used in REPS.
Such granulated lime products must be spread annually, at the rate appropriate to the lime
requirement indicated in the soil analysis results. This must be clearly stated in the plan.
Gran-Lime is considered three times more effective as a liming material than standard ground
limestone. Granucal is considered three times more effective as a liming material than standard
ground limestone. Physiolith is considered 2.4 times more effective as a liming material than
standard ground limestone.
For example a soil sample indicates a lime requirement of 12 tonnes per hectare. The
equivalent requirement of Gran-Lime lime is (12 divided by 3) 4 tonnes per hectare. This
requirement must be spread in equal amounts every year for the period of the contract i.e. 4
tonnes divided by 5 equals 0.8 tonnes per hectare per annum. Queries relating to other liming
materials and their neutralising values should be directed to the Regional Inspector.
At least half of the recommended level must be applied during year 1 or year 2 of the REPS
plan, with the remainder being applied before the end of the fourth year of the plan and this
must be clearly stated on the plan. However, where the specified lime requirement is 5 tonnes
per ha or less, this must be applied before the end of the second year of the plan. There is no
requirement to apply lime to rented lands.
Other Nutrients
Where the planner suspects that the efficient use of nitrogen and/or phosphorus is impaired by
an imbalance of other nutrients, further soil and/or herbage analyses should be carried out and
appropriate adjustments prescribed. Teagasc recommendations should be followed on the
application of potassium, sulphur and trace elements in order to maintain a proper balance of
nutrients in the soil.
D
Management of Stored Organic Fertilisers
This section elaborates on the requirements under Part 4 and Schedule 4 of SI 378 of 2006.
Precautions for Organic Fertilisers
Avoid the contamination of surface waters and wells by leaving a buffer strip between these
resources and the application area as follows.
37
Buffer Zones for Spreading Organic Fertilisers
Water body/Feature
The extraction point of any water supply source providing 100m3 or more of
Buffer zone
200 metres
water per day, or serving 500 or more people
The extraction point of any water supply source providing 10m3 or more of
100 metres
water per day, or serving 50 or more people
The extraction point of any other water supply for human consumption
25 metres
Lake shoreline
20 metres
Exposed cavernous or karstified limestone features (such as swallow holes
15 metres
and collapse features)
Any surface watercourse where the slope towards the watercourse exceeds
10 metres
10%
Any other watercourse
5 metres
Any open drain or where the area of land adjacent to the watercourse is a
3 metres
narrow parcel of land less than 50 metres wide and not more than 1 hectare in
area
School grounds, public building or amenity areas
50 metres
Organic fertilisers and soiled water must not be applied to land 
Using an umbilical system with an upward-facing splashplate

Using a tanker with an upward-facing splashplate

Using a sludge irrigator mounted on a tanker

From a road or passageway adjacent to the land irrespective of whether or not the
road or passageway is within or outside the curtilage of the holding.
Precautions for Chemical Fertilisers
Chemical fertiliser must not be applied within 1.5 metres of any watercourse or field boundary.
This may involve one of the following options:

The use of a machine that is equipped to restrict spreading to one side only.

Moving the machine out an adequate distance to avoid any over-carry.

Reduction of P.T.O. speed to limit the spreading area.

Tilting the machine downwards at the side nearest the watercourse or field boundary thus
shortening the distribution pattern.
Nitrogen fertiliser applications should be avoided during periods of prolonged drought
especially where these occur after mid-July.
38
Precautions for Spent Mushroom Compost
Where such material originates from a diseased crop it should not be spread within 2
kilometres of a mushroom production facility.
Application Periods for Chemical Fertilisers, Organic Fertilisers and FYM
Storage Period
Zones
A
Carlow,
Cork,
Dublin,
Prohibited Application Periods
16 weeks
Chemical
Fertiliser
15th Sept – 12th Jan
Organic
Fertilisers
15stOct – 12thJan
Farmyard Manure
1st Nov – 12th Jan
18 weeks
15th Sept – 15th Jan
15th Oct– 15thJan
1st Nov – 15th Jan
Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly,
Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford,
Wicklow
B
Clare,
Galway,
Kerry,
Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo,
Meath,
Roscommon,
Sligo,
Westmeath
C
Donegal, Leitrim
20 weeks
15th Sept – 31st Jan
15th Oct–31stJan
1st Nov – 31st Jan
D
Cavan, Monaghan
22 weeks
15th Sept – 31st Jan
15th Oct–31stJan
1st Nov – 31st Jan
Chemical Fertilisers
Chemical phosphorus should be applied to peat soils as early as possible in the growing season
but in any event no later than May 31st to facilitate rapid uptake and prevent leaching losses.
Organic Fertilisers
Landspreading of these fertilisers should be carried out as early as practicable in the growing
season to maximise nutrient uptake by crops and consequently minimise pollution risks. It is a
requirement in each year of the plan that all organic fertiliser is landspread by October 15th.
Silage Effluent
The land spreading of effluent onto the ground from which the silage has been harvested is
the most practical option since it recycles some of the nutrients removed in the crop. This
operation should commence as soon as the effluent starts flowing from the pit. Spreading of
silage effluent must be completed by September 30th each year.
Soiled Water
Soiled water is normally disposed of by landspreading and this can take place all the year
round where conditions are suitable and pollution risks minimal. The constraints outlined in
the Precautions for Spreading Organic Fertilisers above must be adhered to. See Appendix 2.
Application Rates of Organic Fertilisers
Slurry
The quantities of nitrogen and phosphorus per unit volume of slurry for the different slurry
storage systems are set out in Appendix 2.
39
The volume of added water influences the nutrient value of slurry. The greater the dilution, the
greater the volume to be landspread. This may mean a number of applications to land during
the year where one application of undiluted slurry would normally suffice. Regardless of the
dilution factor, the maximum hydraulic loading per single application must not exceed 25m 3
per hectare (2200 gallons per acre) on shallow limestone soils and in no case exceed 50m 3
per hectare (4400 gallons per acre).
Farmyard Manure/Dungstead Manure/SMC/Poultry Manure
The quantities of nitrogen and phosphorus per unit volume of these organic fertilisers are set
out in Appendix 2 and must be used when specifying the maximum permitted levels to be
applied. These organic fertilisers are normally landspread in one application.
Silage Effluent
This is potentially a serious organic pollutant that contains a substantial quantity of the
nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
Where silage effluent is available for landspreading it must be diluted to a minimum ratio of
1:1 with water and its rate of application is as detailed for soiled water. Where silage effluent
is mixed with slurry the application rates and spreading of this nutrient material is as detailed
for slurry.
Soiled Water
The nutrient content of this liquid is normally low. The rates of application are determined by
hydraulic loadings rather than the nutrient content. In practice, application rates must not
exceed 25m3 per hectare (2200 gallons per acre) in any 42 day period on shallow limestone5
soils and in no case exceed 50m 3 per hectare (4400 gallons per acre) in any 42 day period,
by tanker application or 2.5mm and 5mm per hour by irrigation.
The transfer by pumping of soiled water from a farmyard to a field location must be via an
irrigator that can be moved to comply with the application rate requirement. Point discharge of
soiled water is not acceptable. Spray drift from the spreading of soiled water must be kept to
the minimum possible.
Imported Non-farming Organic Fertilisers
A certified nutrient analysis from the supplier is a requirement for all of these organic
fertilisers. The landspreading of these organic fertilisers must be integrated into a detailed
nutrient management plan and must conform to the REPS requirements for soil sample
areas, slurry storage and spreading.
The landspreading of blood is not permitted. The spreading of other slaughterhouse wastes
is not permitted except in the case of tillage crops and as part of an integrated waste
management plan licensed by the relevant authority (EPA or Local Authority) and the nutrient
5
Shallow limestone soils are identified by the Geological Survey of Ireland as Extreme Vulnerability
Areas on Karst Limestone Aquifers,
40
content of this material (N & P) must replace any or all of the chemical N & P allocated to the
REPS farm.
Where sewage sludge is applied to farmland, application must be strictly in accordance with
the requirements set out in the Waste Management (Use of Sewage Sludge in Agriculture)
Regulations, 1998 to 2001 and any subsequent amendments thereto and the nutrient content
of this material (N & P) must replace any or all of the chemical N & P allocated to the REPS
farm. Farm livestock must be excluded from the spread area for at least 6 months.
Precautions for the Disposal of Spent Sheep Dip
Spent sheep dip, whether from permanently sited or mobile facilities, must never be disposed
of to a soakpit, or dumped on sacrifice land. It must be landspread by slurry tanker, diluted 1
part dip to 3 parts slurry or water at a rate not exceeding 5m 3/ha (440 gallons per acre) of
spent dip, equivalent to 20m3/ha (1760 gallons per acre) of diluted dip. Spent sheep dip must
be land spread as soon as practicable after use.
All precautions pertaining to the spreading of animal manures are also applicable.
Farm livestock should be excluded from the disposal area for at least 28 days. Empty dip
concentrate containers must be rinsed when dip is being prepared so that rinsing liquid may
be added to form part of the diluted dip. Where there is an outlet at the bottom of an existing
tank, controlled by a stopper, the outlet must be permanently sealed.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Planners should ensure that soils are classified correctly as either peat or mineral soils
prior to submission of samples to approved laboratory for analysis. Peat soils are soils that
are 10cm or greater in depth and with an average of 20% organic matter.

The soil sample number (e.g. Soil Sample 1 or SSI) must be shown on the map for each
field or plot from which the soil sample was taken and the LPIS number together with plot
number must be shown on the soil analysis report.

Soil Analysis Reports. In all situations original laboratory soil analysis reports or certified
copies must be included with the REPS application. A certified copy must be signed and
dated by the REPS Planner and verify that it is a ….“true copy of the original as produced
by the laboratory that carried out the analysis”.

For each sampling area the recommendations arising from the soil analysis report must
be clearly stated indicating all fertiliser and lime requirements.

Planners must clearly set out the planned average livestock numbers on the farm and
the planned imports/exports of organic fertilisers.
41

Where a REPS participant houses stock on another farm all the facilities must comply
with the REPS requirements set out in this specification. The organic fertiliser produced
must be disposed of on the REPS participant's land or exported to another REPS farm.

Where a REPS participant houses stock belonging to another farmer (who may or may
not be a REPS participant), such stock must have separate housing facilities, separate
organic fertiliser storage facilities and separate airspace. The organic fertiliser produced
must be disposed of on the farm of the fodder producer (with appropriate adjustments for
the nutrient content of the slurry based on concentrates fed). The facilities must meet REPS
requirements in these cases and the veterinary regulations governing the recording of
animal movements must be complied with.

A REPS participant is not permitted to house stock in common air space or to share silage
and/or slurry storage facilities with another farmer.

Farmyard sketch detailing buildings and facilities as required. (All farm buildings including
storage facilities on tillage farms and buildings listed under Measure 8 must be included on
the farmyard sketch. The sketch should also include any proposed new buildings) In
situations where additional farm buildings in excess of REPS requirements are constructed
during the REPS plan there is no requirement to submit a revised farm sketch or to amend
the REPS plan provided the structure complies with REPS requirements.

The Planner must clearly provide the dimensions of animal housing and manure storage
facilities on the farm. S/he should also give any additional information necessary in the
‘Comments by Planner’ section of the plan.

The Planner must clearly set out the core housing and /or outwintering period.

The plan must specify any repairs to wintering and storage facilities necessary for pollution
control.

Baled silage produced from wilted grass i.e. containing more than 25% DM, does not
normally produce effluent and may be stored no more than two bales high. Outside of
farmyards bales should neither be stored nor opened within 20 meters of watercourses or
lakes nor within 50 metres of wells.

The weekly requirement in bales should be clearly stated on the plan. Further information
relating to straw bedding requirements and absorption capacities etc. can be found in
Appendix 3 of Specification for REPS Planners in the Preparation of REPS Plans.
42
Measure 2
Grassland and Soil Management
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

Areas of the farm that are sensitive to or damaged by poaching, over/undergrazing,
flooding and soil erosion.

Fields that are adjacent to a watercourse or have a clear flow path to one.

Slopes, soil types, organic matter content and rainfall effect.

A sustainable grassland and soil management plan for the farm.

Overgrazing of heather and other natural vegetation.

Extent of outwintering of livestock including in situ forage grazing and its
environmental consequences.

Control of noxious weeds.

Condition of the soil structure and its maintenance, compaction, crop rotations

Planting of hedgerows to divert runoff from sensitive areas or provide shelter

Siting of paddock gateways

Mandatory environmental undertakings for grassland areas of farms. These are
additional to the Biodiversity Options.
Plan Preparation under Measure 2
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:

Mandatory Environmental Undertakings
In the case of the grassland areas of the farm, identify and select the single most
suitable environmental undertaking6 from the following:
o
Use of Clover in Grassland Swards. Farmers choosing this option must
incorporate clover in 25% of the grassland swards by the end of the second
year of their REPS contract subject to a maximum requirement of 10
hectares.
o
Creation of New Habitat. Farmers must maintain a minimum of 0.2 hectares
or 4% of their contract area whichever is the greater subject to a maximum
area of 1.6 hectares as new habitat land. Where a farm has more than 4% of
6
Specification details for these environmental undertakings are outlined under the Biodiversity Options
/Supplementary Measure of the same title.
43
the contract area identified as habitat area under Measure 4; it is taken that
the above requirement is fulfilled.
o
Farm Woodland Establishment. Farmers must establish a minimum of 0.1
hectares or 2% of their contract area whichever is the greater subject to a
maximum area of 0.8 hectares as Farm Woodland consisting of suitable
native species of local provenance where available. No individual woodland
plot can be greater than 0.5 hectares.
o
Hedgerow Coppicing. Farmers must coppice a minimum of 3 metres of
hedgerow per hectare annually on a maximum of 40 hectares.
o
Hedgerow Laying. Farmers must lay a minimum of 2 metres of hedgerow
per hectare annually on a maximum of 40 hectares.
o
Hedgerow establishment. Farmers must establish a minimum of 3 metres
of hedgerow per hectare annually on a maximum of 40 hectares.
o
Additional Hedgerow/Stonewall Maintenance. Farmers must maintain an
additional 40 metres of hedgerow or 20 meters of stonewall per hectare in
excess of the basic requirement of Measure 5 on a maximum of 40 hectares
(or a pro rata mix).
o
LINNET on 3% of Grassland area7 subject to a maximum requirement of 1.2
hectares.

The potential stocking density of the farm calculated by reference to the
environmental sensitivity of areas within the farm.

The provision of a sustainable grassland management plan for the farm.

The period of the year during which specific stock must be housed. The dates for the
core-housing period must be set out clearly in the REPS plan. The planner may
specify that the actual housing dates can be either delayed or brought forward by a
maximum of two weeks depending on local weather and soil conditions. In practice
the farmer can house animals earlier than specified or turn out animals later than
specified but the core housing period cannot be made shorter than specified.

The period(s) of the year during which grazing on specific areas of the farm and by
specific animals is permitted.

The numbers and types of animals retained over the winter period.

The livestock housing and feed storage and waste storage facilities required.

The number and types of animals outwintered.

The outwintering of animals may be permitted subject to a maximum stocking density
of one livestock unit per hectare at all times on the specified outwintering area,
depending on the soil type(s) in the area concerned. Fields or plots where animals
may be outwintered must be set down in the Agri-Environmental Plan in addition to
the maximum number and type of animal to be outwintered.
7
Maximum 1.2ha
44


In calculating stocking density the following co-efficients apply:
o
Cattle 0 – 6 months
-
0.4 L.U.
o
Cattle 6 months to 2 years
-
0.6 L.U.
o
Cattle over 2 years (including cows)
-
1.0 L.U.
o
Sheep, Goats, Deer
-
0.15 L.U.
o
Equines over 6 months in age
-
1.0 L.U.
The grazing/conservation/feed purchase plan for the farm in order to provide
adequate feed during the year. The planner must outline the conditions for
supplementary feeding that minimise poaching and prevent nutrient loss.

Supplementary feeding points must be located at least 30 metres from watercourses
and at least 10 metres from field boundaries.

Move supplementary feeders and feeding points regularly to prevent pasture damage
and minimise runoff.

Forage maize must not be grown on the one plot for more than 3 consecutive years.
Where maize is grown, establish 5 metre uncultivated field margin along
watercourses as a buffer to intercept possible runoff.

In situ forage crop grazing must minimise the amount of poaching and runoff from
grazing these crops by either limiting the periods of access or providing run-back
areas.
o
Limited access, assuming stock are fed by day.
o
Runback, a run back of 2 ha must be provided for every hectare of forage
crop grown.
o
Establish 5 metre uncultivated field margins along watercourses as buffers to
intercept possible runoff.

Where a plan provides for the grazing of livestock owned by others, such grazing
must be restricted to a maximum of four consecutive months between April 1st and
October 31st. The taking in and grazing of sheep owned by others is permitted at any
time during the year, subject at all times to a maximum period of four consecutive
months. Animals taken in must be managed by the REPS participant and not the
owner of the animals. Animals must be recorded on the REPS participant’s Bovine
Herd Register and on the Department’s databases (CMMS/AIMS).

For horsebreeders and stable owners who own a minimum of four livestock units of
horse on average throughout the year and maintain a minimum stocking rate of one
horse livestock unit for every four hectares of grassland in the REPS plan, the grazing
of livestock owned by others is permitted for a maximum period of seven months
during the period April 1st to October 31st. Additionally, on such holdings, the taking in
of horses owned by others is permitted throughout the year.
This provision also applies to farmers involved in the livery business .

The control of noxious weeds.
45

New grassland management practices and technologies to extend the grazing
season.

Siting water troughs away from watercourses and gateways.

Managing farm tracks/paddock gates to avoid polluting watercourses

The maintenance of field drainage systems (including repair and upgrading) required
to ensure the sustainability of the system. Maintain/improve field drainage systems
where this is compatible with nature conservation objectives as set out in Measure 3.

Where land is being reseeded, an uncultivated and unsprayed margin as described in
Measure 9 must be left in place.

Where clover is included in the reseed mixture and chemical fertiliser is incorporated
into the seedbed within 24 hours of application it is permitted to apply double the
maximum annual amount of chemical phosphorus provided none is applied to the
same area in the following year.

Routine positive management to prevent the encroachment of scrub, rushes or gorse
should be incorporated into the plan where appropriate.

Consider the possibility of creating buffer strips using Option 4A or 3C e.g. 5 – 30m
wide at the bottom of sloping fields or adjacent to streams and watercourses. The
stabilising effect of root systems reduces erosion and the vegetation intercepts dung
and soil particles carried in any runoff.

Consider the possibility of spring ploughing of temporary grassland in tillage farming
situations to maximise the use of soil Nitrogen by the succeeding crop.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Identify fields and plots for outwintering.

Identify areas sensitive to poaching.

The implication of crop rotation for soil management.

Specify the farming practices to be followed to meet the objectives of the Measure.

Guidelines for Supplementary Feeding Points
o
Select areas that have minimal risk of causing surface or ground water
pollution.
o
Supplementary feeding points cannot be sited within 30m of a
watercourse and/or 10 metres from a field boundary.
o
Select areas that have minimal risk of causing changes in the endemic
species of flora found.
o
Select areas that have minimal visual impact.
o
Supplementary feeding points must be rotated regularly.
o
Manure accumulation at feeding points should be collected at the end of
the feeding season and disposed of or stored according to Measure 1.
46

Where Biodiversity Options are selected under this measure, they must be clearly
identified by reference to the field or plot and the specific requirements of the
option(s) set out in the plan.

Identify and map area(s) selected for the chosen environmental undertaking.
47
Measure 3
Protect and Maintain Watercourses, Waterbodies and Wells
Introduction
For the purposes of this measure a watercourse is defined as a channel that in the average
year conveys water throughout 9 months.
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

Watercourses that meet the above definition.

Waterbodies.

Wells, boreholes, pumphouses and extraction points for public and domestic water
supplies.

Watering points.

Selection of suitable Biodiversity Option(s) to protect water quality e.g. Options 3A,
3B, 3C, 4A.

Maintenance requirements for the channels.

Culverts, keshs and crossing points.

Areas suitable for designation as Riparian Setaside.
Plan Preparation under Measure 3
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A. Protection of watercourses and waterbodies.
B. Maintenance of watercourses.
C. Protection of wells and boreholes.
D. Protection of lakes.
A Protection of Watercourses and Waterbodies
The application of pesticides and chemical fertilisers within 1.5 metres of watercourses is
prohibited.
For first time REPS participants, access by bovines to within 1.5 metres of watercourses must
be prohibited before the end of the first year of the plan and thereafter. Fences must be a
minimum of 1.5 metres from the top of the bank of the watercourse. All other REPS
participants, at whatever stage of their REPS contract, must prevent bovine access at all
times.
48
Internal watercourses must be protected on both sides where there are bovines. For
environmental and practical reasons, in some circumstances it may be appropriate to provide
temporary fences only when bovines are present. For example where there is a possibility of
permanent fences being washed away over the winter period especially along eroding
riverbanks.
Watercourses exempted from fencing include the following:

Watercourses on areas designated as habitats in accordance with Measure 4 where
the grazing of cattle does not exceed an average of 0.2 livestock units per hectare

Watercourses that drain directly into salt water without passing through any other
property.

Tidal waters.

Watercourses occurring on lands rented short term and on land the subject of nonqualifying leases.

Watercourses already stockproofed with hedgerows and or stonewalls. In such
situations no pesticides or fertilisers can be applied within 1.5 metres of the
hedgerow/stonewall.
Access to drinking points may be permitted, provided such points prevent animal movement
up or downstream and, restrict animals from standing in the water. Access for animals and
machinery across watercourses shall, as far as possible, be by suitable culverts
B Maintenance of Watercourses
Watercourses requiring maintenance should be identified. The method, timing and frequency
of this maintenance work are crucially important to wildlife and if required must be clearly set
out in the plan.
Maintenance can range from routine cutting of vegetation to channel re-grading and the
removal of silt and debris. Over deepening of channels should be avoided as these will silt up.
Narrow channels provide faster flow.
To sustain habitats associated with watercourses the following guidelines must be followed:

Do not cut or clear all channels in one season. Clean out selected stretches on a
rotational basis. Suggested intervals are, 3 to 4 years for weeds and other soft
vegetation and depending on circumstances every 4 to 5 years for re-grading silted or
blocked channels.

When cleaning, remove weeds from the channel bed and one side only. The other
bank should be left untouched in that season and, if possible, permanently.

Where channels are narrow and it is not possible to clean one side only, selected
stretches should be cleaned on a rotational basis.

In fish-bearing streams, cleaning should be kept to a minimum. Where this must be
carried out the work should be executed between mid-May and mid-September so as
49
to protect fish eggs and small salmonids. It is an offence under the Fisheries Acts to
disturb the bed and gravel during the Autumn/Winter period where fish may spawn or
have already spawned. Where, for whatever reason, drainage of any permanently
wet channel more than 1m wide is required during the Autumn/Winter period
consultation by the farmer with relevant Fisheries Board is mandatory. The addresses
of the various Fisheries Boards are listed in Appendix 4.

Application of organic and chemical fertilisers in the proximity of watercourses,
waterbodies and wells must be in accordance with Measure 1.

Where an approved pesticide is required to be used in the proximity of watercourses,
waterbodies and wells, a derogation must be sought from the Regional Inspector.
C Protection of Wells and Boreholes
By the end of the first year of the plan all wells and boreholes must be fenced, irrespective of
land use, leaving a clear distance of at least 2 metres between well or borehole and fence at
the nearest point. A watering trough must not be placed within 20 metres of a well or borehole
to prevent point source pollution. If wells marked on the O.S. map no longer exist this should
be stated.
Where wells are located in the farmyard and clearly not accessible to livestock, then apart
from adequate safety considerations, there is no requirement to fence.
D Protection of Lakes.
It is necessary to fence lakeshores to prevent bovine access (using permanent or temporary
fencing). If in the opinion of the REPS planner the fencing of lakeshore would be detrimental
to the environment or has other implications for amenity use, (s)he should seek a derogation
from the Regional Inspector specifying the reasons why fencing would be detrimental and
include supporting documentation.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Length of watercourse requiring fencing The total length of watercourse on the
farm that requires fencing relates to the length of watercourse less any watercourse
on the farm that doesn’t require fencing e.g. tidal waters, watercourses flowing
directly into salt water etc. Therefore even if all or part of a watercourse is already
fenced it still needs to be listed as that requiring fencing.

Wells, springs and boreholes must be identified on the map by a blue circle
encompassing the letter W, also in blue.

Lakes must be shaded blue on the REPS map.
50

All watercourses must be clearly identified in the plan and coloured blue on the map.
The name and code of the catchment area stated by reference to the River Quality
map8 e.g. River Dinin code 15D2.

In coastal areas some streams are not identified by reference to the name and code
of the catchment area. In these cases the area code will suffice.

A watercourse not shown on the map must be noted with blue colouring.

A watercourse which no longer exists must be marked X.

Where Biodiversity Options are selected under this measure, they must be clearly
identified by reference to the field or plot and the specific requirements of the
option(s) set out in the plan.
8
Such maps are available from the Environmental Protection Agency, Regional Inspectorate, Richview, Clonskeagh
Road, Dublin 14.
51
Measure 4
Retain Wildlife Habitats
Introduction
The habitats to be retained are diverse in nature ranging from small ponds to large areas of
blanket peat. Habitat types covered by this measure include:

Grasslands
o
Grassland habitats are described as swards with less than 25% of ryegrass,
timothy, white clover either individually or a combination.


o
Callows
o
Upland
o
Lowland Dry
o
Lowland Wet
o
Turloughs and other seasonally flooded areas
o
Coastal grasslands

Sand dunes: foreshore and sea shore

Machairs
Peatlands
o
Raised Bog
o
Cut-over Bog
o
Blanket Bog or Moors
o
Fens
Freshwater
o
Lakes, ponds and their margins
o
Rivers, streams, watercourses and their margins
o
Marshes and swamps

Woodlands and groves of trees.

Scrubland.

Field boundaries/margins, hedgerows and stonewalls (subject to conditions set out in
Measure 5)

Old buildings inhabited by protected species such as barn owls and bats.

Eskers and disused quarries and such workings that have become habitats.

Commonages and habitats designated as SPAs, SACs, NHAs.

Proposed NHAs.
Planners will find the publications “Nature on the Farm”, published by the National Parks
and Wildlife Service and “ A Guide to Habitats in Ireland” written by Dr. Julie Fossitt,
published by the Heritage Council, useful in identifying various habitats under this Measure.
52
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

The nature of the habitats present on the farm.

The number of habitats present on the farm.

The extent and quality of these habitats. Where a farm has less than 1% of the
contract area identified as habitat area under Measure 4, the REPS Planner must
identify and undertake a suitable Category 1 Biodiversity Option in addition to the
mandatory Biodiversity Options chosen.

The farming and other factors that influenced the development of the habitat(s).

The current management practices.

Areas suitable for development of mandatory biodiversity options.
Plan Preparation under Measure 4
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A. Habitat Designated in REPS
B. Habitat Removal or Re-instatement
C. Practices for Habitat Retention
A Habitats Designated in REPS
In general, habitats designated in REPS must remain so designated under REPS; however
where a planner, following consultation with the farmer, declares that an area was incorrectly
designated as a habitat under Measure 4 and now wishes, based on the recommendation of
an environmental report, to re-designate the area for an alternative land use the Planner must
forward the report to the Regional Inspector requesting a derogation. Hedgerows, stonewalls,
permanent post and wire fencing and clay banks (together with their associated margins)
must be retained as these fall under the definition of habitats.
B Habitat Removal or Re-instatement
It is a basic principle of the Scheme that any interference with habitats, other than as part of
an agri-environmental plan or as part of an agreed plan may render the applicant ineligible for
the Scheme.
Where habitats are removed/damaged/interfered with in the 3 years prior to application to join
REPS or in the interim between REPS contracts, the applicant will be required to reinstate
any such habitat(s).
In all such cases the recommendations of an environmentalist must be sought and the
associated report/recommendations must be submitted to the Regional Inspector for approval
prior to making the REPS application. If the proposed remedial works are acceptable, they
must be completed before the end of the first year of the REPS plan. Preference should
53
always be given to re-establishing habitats in their original location. This requirement to
replace removed habitat is not a substitute for other environmental works which should be
carried out under the REPS scheme.
Planners must not, under any circumstances, advise farmers that they can remove any
habitats before they join the Scheme.
C Practices for Habitat Retention
The following practices must not be carried out:

Afforestation

Land improvement works including drainage

Ploughing and re-seeding

Interference with the free-flow of waters to "swallow holes" in turloughs

Removal of sand and gravel from foreshore and seashore

Commercial turf cutting on unexploited bog. Areas included for payment cannot be
exploited during the period of the REPS undertakings.

Burning of growing vegetation on land between March1st and August 31st.
Any further conservation practices required to retain the special qualities of the habitat, in
addition to those set out under the other measures (including the agreed conditions for the
conservation of designated NHA sites) must be detailed. For example, changes in fertiliser
usage, stocking levels, protective fencing, grazing restrictions and restrictions on the location
of supplementary feeding points must be set out in the plan.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Habitats must be identified by reference to the field or plot.

Where Biodiversity Options are selected under this measure, they must be clearly
identified by reference to the field or plot and the specific requirements of the
option(s) set out in the plan.

It is not necessary to identify hedgerows, stonewalls, permanent post and wire
fencing, clay banks (together with their associated margins) and watercourses as
habitats in the plan under this Measure. These are addressed in Measure 5.

A broken line
--------- must be used to identify permanent boundaries of any subplot
and a subplot number must be allocated.

A dotted line
••••••••••
must be used to identify temporary boundaries of any
subplot and a subplot number must be allocated.

Management and conservation practices required to maintain each habitat must be
clearly stated.

Habitat areas outside of commonages, NATURA 2000 sites and designated NHAs
must be hatched green on the eREPS map.
54
MEASURE 5
Maintain Farm and Field Boundaries
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

External boundaries and roadside fences.

Unenclosed lands and commonage issues.

Gates and stiles.

All hedgerows and stonewalls.
Plan Preparation under Measure 5
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A. Stockproofing of farm boundaries
B. Maintenance of entrances to the farm from public roads
C. Maintenance of hedgerows and stonewalls
A. Stockproofing of Farm Boundaries
First time participants in REPS must by the end of the first year of the plan, stockproof all
external boundary and roadside fences and maintain stockproofed and in good repair for the
duration of the plan. To be effective, as a stockproof barrier a hedgerow should have a dense
base, form an unbroken barrier and be at least 1.5 metres high. All other REPS participants,
at whatever stage of their REPS contract, must maintain stockproof farm boundaries at all
times.
Boundary Fencing Exemptions

Where conacre/rented land is contiguous to owned/leased land, the boundary
between the owned/leased land and the conacre/rented can be regarded as an
internal fence for the purpose of REPS and is not required to be stockproof. The
conacre/rented land boundary can then be regarded as the external boundary.

Where sites are disposed of at the stage of applying to join REPS, the area must be
excluded. Where a participant continues to farm the site in question, the requirement
to fence is as for contiguous conacre. In addition, the situation should be explained in
the “Comments by Planner” section of the REPS Plan.

In the case of privately owned unenclosed lands an exemption from the stockproofing
requirement may be permitted where a planner is satisfied that there is no danger of
overgrazing or a threat to the natural vegetation. The location of unfenced boundaries
55
must be identified on the REPS plan. The reason(s) for the exemption must be clearly
stated on the plan under “Comments by Planner”.

Where such unenclosed land is adjacent to commonage, the discretion not to fence is
only applicable where the commonage sub unit(s) adjacent to the land in question
have a damage rating of U (i.e. undamaged). If the damage rating is above this, the
planner must set a maximum stocking rate at any time (sheep and cattle) for the
unenclosed plot/s in question before the non-fencing exemption can apply.

Where raised bog forms part of a holding, fencing of external boundaries to the bog
area is not required provided that, by its location, livestock will not enter the area. The
farmer is required to fence the boundary between any land being farmed and the bog
area.
B. Maintenance of Entrances to the Farm from Public Roads
Entrances from public roads must have hung gates by the end of the first year of the plan.
New entrance access to fields from the public road should be set back in the interest of safety
and may require planning permission.
Traditional wrought and cast iron gates, single stone or stone masonry piers, old stone stiles
should be retained
Newly constructed piers and gates should preferably be of the type traditional to the area and
compatible with the landscape. Step stiles, where required, should be either of local stone or
timber.
C. Maintenance of Hedgerows and Stonewalls
The extent and state of repair of hedgerows and stonewalls on the farm must be established
and used to formulate an appropriate conservation and maintenance programme. The
planner in discussion with the farmer should clearly identify the actions required to maintain
and conserve these farm habitats and features. These actions should be considered against
the landscape character of the area and how they will contribute to the environmental and
amenity value of the farm and surrounding countryside.
Where the upkeep of hedgerows and stonewalls is required over the period of the plan the
work must be undertaken as follows:

A minimum of 140 metres of hedgerow length or 70 metres of stonewall per hectare
(or a pro rata mix of hedgerow and stonewalls) must be scheduled for maintenance
over the period of the REPS contract.

In the case of hedgerows and stonewalls, where farms are in excess of 40 hectares,
this involves a minimum 5,600 metres of hedgerow or 2,800 metres of stonewall.
56

Where the extent of these features on the farm exceeds the above lengths, priorities
should be established. The features of greatest ecological value and those most
prominent in the landscape should be selected for maintenance.

Where the extent of these features on the farm is less than 100 metres of hedgerow
or 50 metres of stonewall per hectare, the planner must specify that the farmer plant
hedgerows (minimum of 10 metres per hectare up to a maximum of 400 metres) or
tree species (minimum of 3 trees, 1000mm – 1200mm height, per hectare up to a
maximum of 120 trees) on field boundaries or other locations on the farm. This work
must be completed by end of year 2 of the REPS contract.
Hedgerows
Mature hedgerows give the Irish landscape its distinctive character and field pattern and
provide an important wildlife habitat especially for woodland flora and fauna. Where major
wildlife habitats exist on farms consideration should be given to allowing hedgerows that
adjoin and link these areas to grow naturally. In general increasing the variety of hedgerows
in terms of height, width, shape and species mix will promote diversity in flora and fauna. The
most valuable species for wildlife include oak, birch, mountain ash, whitethorn, alder, willow,
ash, holly, crab and Scots pine; refer to Appendix 5 and publication ‘Irish Hedgerows:
Networks for Nature’.
Hedgerows can be categorised as follows:
Mature flowering hedgerows, predominately of whitethorn, provide a strong visual impact in
the countryside during May and June each year. A balance of young and mature whitethorn is
required for continuity of this impact. Selected sections of hedgerow on farms should be
allowed to develop and blossom freely. An appropriate conservation and maintenance
programme promotes the flowering, fruiting, vigour and wildlife potential of hedgerows.
Within this type of hedgerow, three further types can be described:
Mature (untended) hedgerows in good condition e.g. along disused farm roads, old
embankments, field corners etc should be allowed to grow naturally. Maintenance in
these situations should be confined to essential practices such as stockproofing,
inplanting and the control of invasive species to prevent field encroachment.
Mature managed hedgerows where the hedgerow or sections of the hedgerow are
well furnished with lower growth and growing vigorously, the appropriate maintenance
may be to allow them to grow freely. In these instances maintenance should be
confined to the light trimming of the sides to curtail outward spread. Side trimming,
where required, should be carried out using a two or three year cycle.
57
Over managed hedgerows that are cut too often and too low should be allowed to
grow unchecked to regain height and vigour. The extent of recovery will indicate what
further action is required. If it is decided to allow sapling trees to develop these should
be selected at irregular intervals and allocated sufficient space to grow. Where
mechanical trimming is required those saplings identified for retention should have
the vegetation around them cleared manually and clearly marked to alert the machine
operator.
Hedgerows with a high proportion of smooth wood species (for example ash, sycamore,
hazel, alder), when topped respond by throwing up many vertical shoots with little lateral
growth. Hedgerows consisting a high proportion of these species, which have previously not
been managed, should only be side trimmed where necessary.
Weak hedgerows, which have lost their vigour and with little basal growth will require more
intervention. It may be more appropriate to rejuvenate the hedgerow by laying or coppicing
distinct sections over the period of the plan. Laying and coppicing are outlined in the REPS
options below (pages 84 & 85).
“Gappy” hedgerows may be closed by in-planting. Plant blackthorn quicks, or other suitable
shade tolerant species such as holly or beech at not more than 450mm spacing in prepared
ground. The young plants (with the exception of beech) should be cut back to half their height
after planting to promote growth. Keep weed free and protect from stock until established.
Assessment for Hedgerow Maintenance
The following issues should be considered when prescribing a maintenance schedule for any
hedgerow:

The type of hedgerow.

Previous management history.

Objectives for the future function of the hedgerow.
Maintenance Guidelines

Hedgerows on farm boundaries that must be stockproofed may require a different
maintenance regime to that of an internal hedgerow, which may not have a stock control
function.

In some cases the appropriate maintenance may only require control of invasive species
and stockproofing.

Inappropriate or untimely maintenance prescriptions often result in the weakening and
ultimate demise of hedgerows. Hedgerow maintenance/rejuvenation should be carried
out by operators certified as being proficient in such operations. e.g. FETAC Competence
in Mechanical Hedge Cutting award.
58

Where ivy infestation is a risk to the stability or long-term viability of a hedgerow it should
be controlled. See Appendix 5.

There is considerable wildlife and landscape benefit if maintenance is carried out in
rotation to ensure that there is growth at all stages both on the farm and in association
with neighbouring farms.

If possible, one side of a hedge should be trimmed in a season.

Careful consideration should be given when prescribing the lowering of the height of a
hedgerow. Topping of hedgerows consisting of mature previously unmanaged
whitethorn/blackthorn may also result in undesirable growth characteristics such as bushy
top-heavy growth (the “toilet brush” effect). Smooth wood species when topped respond
by throwing up many vertical shoots with little lateral growth.

The quest for neatness should not take precedence over ecological and landscape
considerations.

Hedgerow maintenance must be avoided during the bird-nesting season (March 1st August 31st). Late winter is best, affording wildlife the opportunity to fully exploit the
hedgerows food reserves.

Where hedgerows are cut, they must be cut to an A-shaped profile with a bushy structure
for maximum protection from wind. This will encourage the development of a dense
hedge. Square cut hedgerows will put out a twiggy, lateral growth, encroaching on roads
and paths so that summer cutting is required for reasons of safety and convenience.

The most desirable method of hedge maintenance is by the use of hand tools. The
crushing of hedgerows by heavy machinery is not permitted. Finger bar cutters utilising a
pair of reciprocating blades are very suitable for trimming young growth. A flail cutter
should only be used on soft growth of thorny species and beech i.e. no more than 2/3
years old. A flail cutter should never be used on heavy woody growth: resultant ragged
ends invite disease and are unsightly. A circular saw may be used when coppicing or reshaping is required.

Where boundary features are adjacent to railway tracks; employees of Iarnrod Eireann
must be allowed access to inspect and carry out such works as is deemed necessary to
ensure the safe running of the railway.

Fertilisers or pesticides may only be applied in accordance with Measures 1 and 6.

Fencing wire should not be attached to hedgerow trees and shrubs.

Where practicable hedge trimmings should be piled in a non-intrusive manner to provide
habitat. If hedge trimmings are to be removed or burned this should be done as soon as
possible after cutting. Where hedge trimmings are burned extreme care should be
exercised to ensure that the habitat is not endangered by fire. Fires should not be left
unattended.
59
Stonewalls
Stonewalls are an important element in the landscape. Walls offer shelter to livestock,
protection to wildlife and are an important habitat for both flora and fauna.
All existing stonewalls must be retained and maintained in a manner traditional to the area. It
is important to continue to maintain regional and local differences in wall types and styles.
Wall styles vary according to their function and the local geology.
Existing stonewalls, prominent in the landscape but in a state of disrepair, should be repaired
or rebuilt on a phased basis. Where there are insufficient stones available on site to
stockproof these walls supplementary post and wire fencing may be used.
Stone walls that have collapsed or partly collapsed should be re-built following the type and
style of the existing wall. In locations where field size is small and stonewalls have fallen into
disrepair it may be more practical to sacrifice selected broken down walls using the stones to
repair or rebuild other walls. This can only apply where the length of existing stonewalls
exceeds 100 metres per hectare. Where this course of action is proposed, due account must
be taken of the requirements of Measure 7 and the traditional landscape of the area.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

All hedgerows must be identified by a yellow line on the map (excluding those on
areas ineligible for payment). Non-continuous hedgerows must be identified by a
broken yellow line.

All stonewalls must be identified by a green line on the map (excluding those on
areas ineligible for payment). Non-continuous stonewall must be identified by a
broken green line.

Combinations of stonewall and hedgerow must be marked with both a yellow and a
green line.

Mark on the map other features that require to be retained, using capital lettering A,B,
C etc.

Where a fence shown on the map has been removed, this must be indicated on the
farm map by short parallel lines thus // at intervals on the removed fence.

Where a permanent fence not shown on the map is in place, the location of this fence
must be shown on the farm map by a broken line thus -------------

The total length and type of farm and field boundaries on lands eligible for REPS
payment must be recorded in the plan. The measurements of total farm boundaries
i.e. wire fences, stonewalls and hedgerows and total internal boundaries i.e. wire
fences, stonewalls and hedgerows stated in the REPS plan are to include only those
60
on lands eligible for REPS payment. For maps not prepared using e-REPS a
tolerance of ±10% on the length of these boundaries is acceptable.

A planner should exercise his/her professional judgement when categorising or
describing a field boundary. Planners should give any additional information
necessary in the “Comments by Planners” section of the plan.

Describe other features to be retained, e.g. wrought iron gates, stiles, stone piers etc.

The planner must set out the programme of work to be carried out for each year of
the plan showing with reference to the map the length in metres and the precise type
of stonewall/hedgerow maintenance.

Where hedgerow planting, coppicing or laying or additional stone wall maintenance is
selected under this measure, the precise location and length in metres must be
clearly identified by reference to the field or plot e.g.

A-B. .
For conacre/rented land it is not necessary to mark internal hedgerows, stonewalls
and watercourses

With regard to the fencing requirements for sites sold that continue to be farmed by
the participant/applicant, these must be marked excluded
REPS form submitted.
61
Excl and the appropriate
Measure 6
Restricted use of Pesticides and Fertilisers
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

All existing field boundaries, ponds, wells, boreholes, lakes, and watercourses.

Current agronomic practices relating to pesticide and fertiliser use on the farm. For
the purposes of REPS, pesticides include herbicides, insecticides and fungicides etc.

Noxious weeds mentioned in the Noxious Weed Act 1936 (as amended).

The use of herbicides for the purpose of aiding the establishment of new hedgerows,
tree plantings and farmyard landscaping.
Plan Preparation under Measure 6
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A. Protection of Field Boundaries and Field Margins
B. Protection of all Waterbodies
C. Exceptions
D. The Safe Use of Pesticides
A. Protection of Field Boundaries and Field Margins
To protect field margins and hedgerows the following restrictions must be observed:

Pesticides must not be applied within l.5 metres of field boundaries and hedgerows.

Fertilisers/manures must be applied in accordance with Measure 1.

Correct spraying techniques should be adopted to prevent drift.
B. Protection of All Water Sources
To protect waterbodies the following restrictions must be observed:

In the case of grassland, do not apply pesticides within l.5 metres of lakes, ponds and
watercourses and in the case of tillage crops do not apply pesticides within 3 metres
of lakes, ponds and watercourses.

Do not apply pesticides within 2 metres of wells and boreholes.

Fertilisers/manures must be applied in accordance with Measure 1.

Correct spraying techniques should be adopted to prevent drift.
Where a participant elects to participate in REPS Option 3A “Increased Watercourse Margin”
and/or REPS Option 4C “Nature Corridors” and REPS Option 9C “Increased Arable Margins”
then the increased margin limits in the Options apply.
62
C. Exceptions
The following exceptions can be applied:

Noxious weeds that cannot be dealt with mechanically may be spot treated with a
suitable herbicide.

During hedgerow establishment (first 3 years) the use of selective herbicides is
allowed to control weeds. This must be stated under Measure 6 of the REPS plan.

Where trees and shrubs are planted, the use of selective herbicides is permitted for a
period of up to five years. The requirement for the use of herbicides should be
reviewed in Year 3 of the plan.
D. The Safe Use of Pesticides
Pesticides must be applied as recommended by the manufacturer.

Mixing must always be carefully carried out away from wells and watercourses. Care
must be exercised to ensure that only the amount of chemical required is mixed

Account must be taken of windspeed and direction at time of spraying.

Field margins, wildlife habitats and waterbodies must not be contaminated either by
direct application of pesticide or from spray drifting.

Following spraying, if any surplus mix remains, it should be sprayed on to the crop up
to the maximum limit permitted.

Sprayer washings must be disposed of in a similar manner to the method used for
application of surplus mix.

Chemical containers must be washed in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations and disposed of in accordance with the requirements of the Local
Authority Waste Management Plan.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Identify exceptions to the restrictions on the use of pesticides for the farm.
63
Measure 7
Establish Biodiversity Strips Surrounding Features of Historical and
Archaeological Interest
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

All features of historical and archaeological importance described/identified on the
map.

Features on the farm that may be of local interest or importance, but are not officially
recorded on the map.

Biodiversity associated with the feature(s).

Current farming practices that may be impacting on these features.
Plan Preparation under Measure 7
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must:
A. Consult the Record of Monuments and Places for the locality.
B. Record any features of significance, both those officially recorded in the Record of
Monuments and Places and those that are not mentioned.
C. Prescribe management practices that ensure the protection of these features.
A. Consult the Record of Monuments and Places for the locality
All known archaeological monuments in the state are marked on a set of maps and included
on an accompanying list of monuments, known as The Record of Monuments and Places 9.
The details of The Record of Monuments and Places are provided in a layer on the e-REPS
mapping system.
The Record of Monuments and Places provides a catalogue, including maps, of known
upstanding archaeological monuments and the sites of levelled or buried monuments for each
county. Additionally, there is a series of published volumes of county archaeological
inventories available, containing brief descriptions for Cavan, Carlow, West, Mid, East and
South Cork, Laois, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, West and North Galway, North
Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow.10
9
The Record of Monuments and Places can usually be consulted via eREPS or in County Libraries, County
Museums and Teagasc Offices. The Record of Monuments and Places and its associated archive (which can be
consulted by prior appointment) are kept by the Archaeological Survey of Ireland, Department of the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government, 6 Ely Place Upper, Dublin 2. Telephone 01-6472483.
10
Available from the Government Publications Office, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2.
64
Monuments visible on the surface are frequently surrounded by other archaeological features
hidden close to the surface such as pits, house foundations, hearths and burials. It is
important that where questions of an archaeological nature arise in the preparation of a REPS
plan advice should be sought from the National Monuments Service of the Department of the
Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
Where conditions are favourable, historical buildings can support populations of bats,
swallows, swifts, house martins and barn owls; barn owls are particularly important, as their
population has suffered a 50% decline in the last 25 years. Additionally earthen features and
the buffer zone surrounding them can often act as a refuge for rare plants and become
pockets of high diversity as they form a sink for colonising species associated with a particular
geology or soil type of the area.
B. Record Features of Significance
The planner must list all historical and archaeological features in the agri-environmental plan
by reference to the farm map. Ruins such as those of traditional dwelling houses and lime
kilns are part of the history of the locality and must also be recorded in the REPS plan. If
additional monuments are not recorded on the Record of Monuments and Places maps but
are known to the landowner, these should also be included in the plan. It is recommended
that the National Monuments Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and
Local Government be notified by the farmer/landowner of their existence.
C. Management Practices to Protect Archaeological and Historical Features
The planner must specify the practices required to ensure the protection of archaeological
and historical features as follows:

A biodiversity buffer strip around monuments is maintained wherein no ground
disturbance (including ploughing for reseeding), excavation, construction of buildings,
farm roads or tree planting can take place.
o
In grassland, the buffer strip must extend to 20 metres from the external
perimeter of the monument.
o
In tillage, the buffer strip must extend to 5 metres from the external perimeter
of the monument. In any tillage situation, sub-soilers, mole ploughing or stone
clearance must not be carried out.

It is desirable to keep these buffers free of trees and scrub, to prevent encroachment.
The best control is appropriate levels of grazing which avoid wear and tear of the
monument.

The storage of fertilisers (organic and or chemical), fodder or chemicals for any
purpose is prohibited.

No materials of any type should be removed from or deposited on such sites.
65

Care must be taken to avoid damaging monuments through the use of heavy
machinery in their vicinity. If protection is required, light temporary fencing or marker
posts can be used.

Burning of any materials on the site is prohibited.

Continuous movement of animals or the overwintering of animals on earthwork
features is not permitted. If protection is required, temporary fencing can be used.

In line with Biodiversity Option 2E, some tree and scrub control can occur on
monuments as follows
o
Trees: The removal of dead, dying or unstable trees from archaeological
monuments should be considered. They should be cut as close as possible
to ground level and the stump left in place to rot. Felled trees should be cut
into pieces where they fall and the pieces taken away. Tree trunks should not
be dragged along the ground. Similarly, fallen trees should be cut into pieces
where they fall and taken away. Their root plate should be replaced in the
existing depression.
o
Invasive Scrub: Scrub removal should not be carried out between 1st March
and 31st August and must not be removed by mechanical means or by
burning. Scrub should be cut back by hand and the stumps spot treated, as
necessary. It is important to ensure that the works do not cause ground
disturbance. The site should be monitored regularly after clearance to
prevent regeneration. If necessary, grazing or strimming should be
considered.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Mark all features on the REPS Map.

Reference these features in the REPS Plan with a plot number.

Specify the management practices for the protection of the features and the
biodiversity buffer strip surrounding them.

Useful references include the following publications “Good Farming Practice and
Archaeology”, available through the National Monuments Service of the Department
of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and “Farming and the Ancient
Countryside” published by jointly by Teagasc and the Department of the
Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Queries concerning the treatment of archaeological monuments under REPS should
be sent to: The Director, National Monuments Service, Department of the
Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dún Scéine, Harcourt Lane, Dublin 2.
66
Measure 8
Maintain and Improve Visual Appearance of Farm and Farmyard
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
must consider the following:

The appearance of the farm and farmyard in relation to the surrounding countryside.

Any traditional buildings located in the farmyard or on the farm.

The current condition of all farm buildings.

Unsightly features.

The siting of proposed new farm buildings and structures.

Any proposed landscaping around the farmyard see Appendix 5.
Plan Preparation under Measure 8
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A. The Management of Waste Materials on the Farm.
B. Retention of Traditional Farm Buildings
C. The Maintenance of Farm Buildings including the use of Appropriate Roof and Wall
Colours.
D. The siting of any New Buildings.
A. The Management of Waste Materials on the Farm.
Waste materials include, for example: packaging and containers, plastic sheeting and bags,
rubber tyres, disused machinery, disused cars, worn-out and spent materials used in the
servicing of agricultural machinery such as oils, solvents etc. Deposits of these materials are
not only a visual eyesore but are also potential environmental pollutants and safety hazards.
The following practices must be followed:

Containers of agricultural chemicals and other persistent toxic or harmful substances
must not be put to an alternative use. They must be disposed of in accordance with
the manufacturers instructions where given and in accordance with the requirements
of the Local Authority Waste Management Plan.

Plastic sheeting, bags, etc. must always be collected and stored after use or re-use
and not allowed to disperse through the countryside

The burning of plastics is not permitted.
67

Where a re-cycling collection facility exists for certain plastics such as the scheme
established by the Irish Farm Films Producers Group (IFFPG)11 applicants should
avail of this facility.

Items intended for re-use on the farm, e.g. wooden pallets, metals, machinery etc.
must be stored at a central location on the farm in a manner that reduces the visual
impact of these materials on the landscape.

Any waste materials, including waste oil, that require management, must be disposed
of in accordance with the Local Authority Waste Management Plan. Waste oil must
not be disposed to a soakway, or other farm waste system.

Dead animals must be disposed of in accordance with the law and Veterinary
Regulations.
B. Retention of Traditional Farm Buildings
Structurally sound farm buildings (including structures with no roofs) and farm dwellings
converted for farm use must be retained and should, if possible, continue to be used in their
current state. Conversion of these buildings to dwelling accommodation or for use in
alternative farm enterprises may be considered where appropriate.
Essential maintenance to the fabric of the structure to retain the structure in its present
condition must be identified in the REPS plan. ‘Maintenance’ refers to the routine work that is
necessary to protect the fabric of a building and to keep it weatherproof. It does not include
any work to put right significant defects or decay, or anything required to bring a building in
poor repair back to good condition. This sort of restoration work can be funded under
Supplementary Measure 12 but this is a discretionary measure and all applications will be
assessed on their merits.
Some maintenance works will be required annually. Others – such as clearing of gutters and
vegetation – may need to be undertaken several times per year.
Typical maintenance work includes:

undertaking a regular inspection of the building to check its condition and identify any
problems that need attention;

ensuring all services are working properly – such as making sure that gutters are free of
debris;

Undertaking minor repairs to the external fabric of the building, such as replacing slipped
or broken roofing slates and tiles to prevent rainwater penetration, renewing cast iron
gutters and drainpipes, painting woodwork and metalwork, replacing broken glass,
pointing walls, clearing vegetation;

Inspecting the building regularly to identify areas needing maintenance work. For
example, checking downpipes and gutters for leaves in the autumn, noting slipped slates,
checking the condition of paintwork and other areas requiring rectification.
Care must be exercised to retain access for owls and bats, where such habitats 12 exist.
11
c/o Repak, 1, Ballymount Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, Tel. (01) 4578200
68
C. The Maintenance of Farm Buildings including the use of Appropriate Roof and Wall
Colours

Essential repairs to the fabric of farm buildings such as securing of roofing materials;
repair and/or replacement of gutters, rainwater pipes and doors, must be identified.

Good use of colour can make farm buildings appear smaller, less industrial, and more
sympathetic to the traditions of country building. The choice of appropriate colours is
influenced by the colour of existing buildings on the farm, by the traditional colours in the
locality, and by the guidelines below.

Colours should be chosen for good design reasons, rather than just by personal
preference. Dark colours on roofs reduce the apparent size of buildings, whereas light or
reflective materials increase their apparent size and draw attention to them. Accordingly,
roofs should, where possible, be of a darker colour than the walls. Suitable roof colours
are dark-grey, dark reddish brown, or a very dark green. Brighter shades of green or blue
will clash with natural colours and should always be avoided.

If the existing farm or other local roofs are of slate, a good choice for roof colour is a dark
grey-blue. The strong red roof - colour used in many parts of Ireland is also a wellaccepted tradition and it should be used where it is the predominant colour on the farm
even though it can draw attention to buildings.
It looks well when contrasted with
whitewashed walls.

The roof colour should usually be continued for the upper part of gable walls, but the
lower gable and sidewalls should be a different and lighter colour than the roof. Suitable
wall colours are unpainted block or plastered walls, whitewash or paints of a much lighter
hue than the roof, or cladding of a light grey or sandy colour. Stained or blackened
concrete walls may be given a cement wash.

Smaller details such as window or doorframes, or small side-doors to parlours, dairies,
etc., can be painted in bright colours to give emphasis. [e.g. red, yellow, or green].
Larger sliding doors should normally be the colour either of the roof, or the lower wall.
Most cladding materials for farm buildings (pre-painted metal, fibre cement sheet) are
now available in a good range of suitable colours.
When a galvanised or aluminium-zinc roof has been in place for four years, it can be
painted without any problems. The same timescale applies to proprietary pre-painted
roofs.
A new or recent galvanised, aluminium-zinc, or pre-painted roof can be easily painted
using a proprietary two-pack system consisting of a weak primer and a finishing coat.
Such paint systems are widely available from Irish and other manufacturers.
Pre-painted curved sheets for haybarns or other roofs are available from several cladding
manufacturers in a full range of colours

12
Planned works must be completed by the end of Year 4 of the REPS contract.
Construction of bird boxes as described in Appendix 6 can also be considered.
69
D. The Siting of any New Buildings

The efficient working of a farmyard complex is the most important consideration, but it
should be possible, by careful siting of new buildings, to give the appearance of a unified
group. If possible, the roof pitch should be the same, as on existing buildings, and the
guidance notes on roof and wall colours should be followed.

Attention given to small design details, e.g. projecting the roof beyond the wall line and
using bargeboards, can considerably improve the appearance. If the proposed building is
very large, consideration should be given to a design that would "break up" the main bulk
into smaller elements. If an existing farm complex gives a "complete" appearance, it may
be more appropriate to start a second complex some distance away.

Buildings should not, if at all possible, be sited on a ridge, or on the highest point in a
locality.

Existing and new buildings can be integrated into the countryside both by the use of
graded earth banks and by the planting of well-chosen surrounding/sheltering trees. In
general deciduous trees and shrubs (Appendix 5) are most appropriate. Very tall narrow
trees (eg Lombardy poplar, Leyland Cypresses etc) must be avoided as they draw
attention to buildings. Some climbing plants can soften the outlines of large buildings but
they must not interfere with ventilation or drainage.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Ensure all buildings are marked on the farmyard sketch

Identify, by reference to the map, all unsightly features

Specify the works necessary to improve the appearance of the farm and farmyard by
the end of the first year of the Plan.

For each subsequent year, it is essential to set out the annual programme of works to
maintain the visual appearance of the farm and farmyard.

Identify the traditional quality farm buildings for retention.

Specify the annual programme of works to maintain these traditional buildings in their
current condition.

Identify, by reference to the farmyard sketch, the farm buildings requiring
maintenance or painting.

Specify the completion of planned landscaping, repairs and maintenance by the end
of Year 4 of the plan. (Maintenance works required to comply with Measure 1 must be
completed by the start of the first winter).

Where Biodiversity Options are selected under this measure, they must be clearly
identified by reference to the field or plot and the specific requirements of the
option(s) outlined in the plan.
70
Measure 9
Tillage Crop Production
Introduction
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
together with the farmer, must consider the following:

Current cropping programmes.

Current management techniques for the crops grown.

The presence or absence of a crop rotation.

The use and extent of temporary fencing on the tillage areas of the farm.

The extent to which farming operations are carried out by agricultural contracting
firms.
Plan Preparation under Measure 9
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the REPS Plan,
must address the following principal issues:
A.
The management of straw and stubble
B.
The establishment of an uncultivated margin
C.
The management of Biomass crops
A.
The Management of Straw and Stubble
The following must be complied with on all tillage lands farmed:

Straw and stubble burning must not be carried out.

Bovines can be outwintered on stubble grounds provided that the stocking rate and
management practices are as required under Measure 2. Requirements for outwintering
on stubble ground must be clearly detailed in the REPS plan.
B.
The Establishment of an Uncultivated Margin
The following must be complied with on all tillage lands farmed:

An uncultivated margin of at least l.5 metres, from the centre of any permanent post and
wire field boundary fence must be retained. Where cultivated fields adjoin such fences,
the total margin between crops must not be less than 3 metres.

Where a field boundary is a stonewall, a minimum uncultivated margin from the stone wall
of 1.5 metres is required. Where cultivated fields adjoin such walls, the total margin
between crops in adjoining fields must not be less than 3 metres plus the width of the
wall.

Where the field boundary is a hedgerow, a minimum uncultivated margin of 1.5 metres
plus half the width of the hedgerow is required.
71

Where cultivated fields adjoin and where the boundary fence is a hedgerow 2 metres
wide or less, the margin between crops must not be less than 5 metres, i.e. 2.5 metres
from the centre of the hedgerow on each side.

Where the field boundary includes a watercourse the uncultivated margin must be 3
metres in width from the top of the bank of the watercourse.
C.
The Management of Biomass Crops
The following must be complied with on all lands growing biomass crops:

The maximum area allowed is 10 hectares or 25% of the REPS contract area
whichever is the greater

Must not be grown on habitats identified under Measure 4 or Natura 2000/NHA sites

The uncultivated margin must extend to 4 metres
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Specify how straw and stubble lands are to be managed.

Specify the appropriate field margins.

Prescribe the appropriate management practices for field margins.

Identify by plot number the area under biomass crops

Where Biodiversity Options are selected under this measure, they must be clearly
identified by reference to the field or plot and the specific requirements of the option(s)
outlined in the plan.
72
Measure 10
Training in Environmentally Friendly Farming Practices
Introduction:
Attendance at a training course is a condition of the Scheme.

Those participants who have not completed a REPS 2 or 3 training course must
attend a REPS 4 10-hour Appreciation Module. This appreciation module must be
completed before the end of year 2.

All other participants must attend an approved Training Module (of their choice)
before the end of year 2.
In addition all participants may attend a second approved Training Module. To avail of
payment for two Training Modules, one Module must be completed in year 1.
The objective of the Appreciation Module is to provide participants with:

Information on the environmental benefits arising from and adhering to the various
REPS measures.

Their responsibilities in REPS and consequences of non-compliance with the
Scheme Terms and Conditions, their approved REPS plan and requirements set out
in the REPS 4 Farmers Handbook.

Clarification of all the relevant requirements included in the Scheme Terms and
Conditions, the agri-environmental plan and the Requirements set out in the REPS 4
Farmers Handbook, including eligibility criteria for new applications.

The knowledge and skills necessary to implement their REPS plans.

Requirements that the Department places on planners in drawing up REPS
applications/amended plans.

Responsibilities of farmers with regard to Cross Compliance, national legislation and
local byelaws.
Training Modules will include areas such as:

Field Boundary Management and Construction

Cultural and Heritage Landscape

Water on the Farm

High Nature Value Farmland

Tillage

Nutrient and Soil Management

Any other themed module as approved by the Department of Agriculture and
Food
The planner should provide information relating to dates, times and venues of approved
courses.
73
Course Preparation under Measure 10
The training module providers in preparing and drawing up a REPS Training Module, must
address the following principal issues:

Module content, encompassing relevant REPS Measures and Supplementary Measures
as detailed in the syllabus.

Specific requirements of local farming conditions and practices.

Module format including the mix of practical and classroom sessions.

Farm Safety.

Suitable venues for courses.

Department of Agriculture and Food approval for providing the Module.
Specific Issues

In the case of joint participants in REPS, the participants may nominate one of those
named on the plan/application to attend and complete the Module(s) in full; however,
all may attend, if desired.

Only one payment per module per annum will be made for each participant farm.

Planners should arrange for the attendance of participants at a Training Module(s)

Participants must attend at least one module within two years of joining the Scheme.

On satisfactory completion of each module a Certificate of Completion should be
issued to the participant.

To claim payment the original certificate or a copy certified by the issuing course
provider must be submitted to the Department of Agriculture and Food by the end of
the first or second recording year.

Failure to attend at least one module within the period specified will result in third and
subsequent years REPS payment being withheld until such time as satisfactory
evidence is provided that a training module has been completed by the participant.
Plan Requirements for this Measure

Nominate the year for attendance at the REPS Training Module (where the
participant wishes to draw down payment under two modules: one Module must be
completed in Year 1 and the other in Year 2).

Highlight the requirement to submit Certificate of Completion to allow annual payment
continue.
74
Measure 11
The Maintenance of Farm and Environmental Records
Introduction
The maintenance of farm and environmental records is the responsibility of the REPS
participant. The records must be kept up-to-date on a monthly basis and retained by the
participant at all times for inspection throughout the period of the plan and for the three
months following completion of the REPS contract.
The prescribed record sheets, in addition to meeting the requirements of SI 378 of 2006, will
also include the following:

Monthly livestock inventory.

Details on the Import/Export of organic fertilisers.

Purchase of concentrates

Particulars of the works, stipulated in the farm plans, which have been carried out.

Winter housing dates of livestock.

Details of all lime spread on the farm.

Records of any other environmentally sensitive work over and above the scheme
requirements carried out.
Documents such as original invoices and original statements etc. relevant to the prescribed
record sheets must be retained for inspection.
The commencement date for record keeping is the commencement date of the plan.
Production of records for inspection may be requested at any reasonable time during the
REPS contract or in the three months following completion of the REPS contract.
The keeping of farm and environmental records in accordance with this Measure requires
certification by the farmer prior to the second and subsequent payments. The farmer must
sign and date the record sheets at the end of each recording year.
Plan Requirements for this Measure

Ensure that the REPS participant is aware of importance of maintaining the
prescribed records.

Ensure that the REPS participant is aware of the requirement to retain and have
available for inspection, all of the required records and supporting original
documentation for the period of the REPS contract and in the three months following
completion of the REPS contract
75
REPS Biodiversity Options
Summary of Mandatory Biodiversity Undertakings
BIODIVERSITY
DESCRIPTION
CATEGORY
OPTION
2A
Traditional Hay Meadows
Category 1 and/or Category 2
2B
Species Rich Grassland
Category 1 and/or Category 2
2C
Use of Clover in Grassland Swards
Category 1
2D
Use of Trailing Shoe Technology
Category 2
2E
Control of Invasive Species
Category 2
3A
Increased Watercourse Margin
Category 2
3B
Exclude all Bovine Access to Watercourses
Category 2
3C
Use of Planted Buffer Zones
Category 2
4A
Creation of a New Habitat
Category 1
4B
Broad Leaved Tree Planting
Category 1 and/or Category 2
4C
Nature Corridors
Category 2
4D
Farm Woodland Establishment
Category 1
5A
Hedgerow Coppicing
Category 1
5B
Hedgerow Laying
Category 1
5C
New Hedgerow Establishment.
Category 1
5D
Additional Stonewall Maintenance
Category 1
7A
Increase in Archaeological Buffer Margins
Category 2
8A
Traditional Irish Orchard
Category 1 or Category 2
8B
Install Bird and or Bat boxes
Category 1 or Category 2
9A
Green Cover Establishment
Category 1 and/or Category 2
9B
Environmental Management of Setaside
Category 1
9C
Increased Arable Margins
Category 1 and/or Category 2
9D
Low Input Spring Cereals
Category 1
9E
Minimum-tillage
Category 1 and/or Category 2
76
Option 2A Traditional13 Hay Meadows
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To encourage a grassland management system that results in a more diverse sward
with an increase in flora and fauna.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity.
Where areas of the farm are considered suitable for conversion to traditional hay meadow,
Option 2A provides a prescription that facilitates their establishment.
Requirement: Farmers choosing Option 2A must maintain a minimum of 0.4 hectares or 8%
of their contract area whichever is the greater, subject to a maximum area of 1.6 hectares as
a traditional hay meadow and the traditional hay meadow must be managed as follows:

Fertilisation: Artificial fertiliser, slurry and farmyard manure can only be applied if this
has been the traditional practice. In any case the total applied nutrients (organic and
chemical) cannot exceed 30 kg N, 5kg P and 5kg K per hectare per year.

Grazing: Traditional grazing practices to be maintained. The planner must determine
what constitutes traditional practice. This must include the numbers and type of
livestock, and the seasonal grazing pattern. In any situation, grazing levels must not
exceed 1 LU (85kg N) per hectare on a year round average and should never exceed
2 LU per hectare.

Mowing: Meadows for conservation may only be cut after the June 15th. While it is
preferable for hay to be saved, silage is acceptable provided it is turned at least twice
before collection to allow seeds disperse.
Option 2B Species Rich Grassland
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To promote a grassland management system through appropriate grazing levels and
restrictions on fertiliser and pesticide use that results in a more diverse sward with an increase
in flora and fauna.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and landscape.
Where areas of the farm are considered suitable for conversion to species rich grassland,
Option 2B provides a prescription that enhances the diversity of grassland.
Requirement: Farmers choosing Option 2B must maintain a minimum of 0.4 hectares or 8%
of their contract area whichever is the greater subject to a maximum area of 1.6 hectares as
species rich grassland and the grassland must be managed as follows:
13
Traditional” to mean practices in use over the previous ten years.
77

Fertilisation: No artificial fertiliser, slurry, farmyard manure or other organic material
can be applied.

Grazing: Traditional grazing practices to be maintained. The planner must determine
what constitutes traditional practice. This shall include the numbers and type of
livestock, and the seasonal grazing pattern. In any situation, grazing levels must not
exceed 0.8 LU (68kg N) per hectare on a year round average and should never
exceed 1.6 LU per hectare.

Topping: Grasslands may only be topped after July 15th.
Issues Common to Option 2A and Option 2B
The prescription for these Options must be followed from the commencement of the
plan.

Plots selected for these options must be clearly identified on the REPS plan.

Fencing: Plots must be permanently fenced before the end of the first year of the
REPS contract (and from the commencement of the contract where the Option is
carried forward from a previous agreement) and maintained for the duration of the
plan.

Dumping, infilling, burning of vegetation: The importing of materials from other
sites for the purpose of disposal, burning or infilling is prohibited.

Reseeding, reclamation and tree planting: No reseeding, reclamation or tree
planting is permitted.

Drainage: Planned maintenance of existing drains shall be permitted.

Use of Herbicides: Control of noxious weeds with herbicide is permitted; however
application may only be by spot treatment.

Supplementary Feeding: No supplementary feeding to be introduced into fields
where it was not traditionally carried out.
In coastal and upland areas Options 2A and 2B may satisfy a Category 1 requirement
where three times the basic requirement (Category 2) is undertaken.
Option 2C Use of Clover in Grassland Swards
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: To contribute to the delivery of water quality by promoting the incorporation of clover
into grassland swards to reduce the dependency on Nitrogenous fertilisers.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of water quality and biodiversity.
78
Requirement:
Farmers who avail of this Option must incorporate clover in 25% of the grassland swards of
the farm by the end of the second year of the REPS contract subject to a maximum
requirement of 5 hectares. A minimum of 5 kgs/hectare of white clover seed must be used.
Plots selected for this Option must be clearly identified on the plan and seed certification
labels must be retained in accordance with Measure 11.
Option 2D Use of Trailing Shoe Technology
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To improve the recycling of organic nitrogen on livestock holdings and to contribute
to reduced nitrous oxide, ammonia emissions and odours.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of climate change and water
quality.
Requirement:
To avail of this Option all of the slurry spread on the farm must be spread using trailing shoe
technology. The farmer must retain evidence of the use of trailing shoe technology for each
year of the REPS contract, by way of contractor receipt or other evidence of use of this
technology.
Option 2E Control of Invasive Species
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: Promote the conservation and maintenance of habitats by controlling the spread of
specific invasive species.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and landscape.
Requirement:
This Option is applicable only to lands identified as grassland habitats under REPS Measure 4
and is designed to maintain the open nature of these grassland habitats through the selective
control of bracken, rushes and some scrubby plants such as gorse, hazel and blackthorn.
The REPS plan must outline an annualised prescription for the control of the invasive species,
taking into account the habitat conservation objective, over the course of the REPS contract.
Mechanical grubbing out and removal of scrub and/or the burning of growing scrub is not
permitted. Where chemical treatment is proposed, spot treatment or the use of weed lick
techniques must only be used. Farmers who avail of this Option must undertake this
prescription on 10% of the holding subject to a maximum of 2 hectares to be maintained over
the period of the plan. In the case of scrub control, it will mean that approx 30% of the area
will remain covered by scattered patches, lines of scrub and approx 20% of the area will be
79
managed for the active removal of scrub. In the case of bracken and rush control, 100% of
the site must be actively managed for their control. Control of bracken and rushes will be
considered successful when 75% of the original cover is removed.
Option 3A Increase Watercourse Margin
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To further protect water quality by increasing the buffer strip along watercourses to
intercept possible overland flow of nutrients.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of water quality.
Requirement:
For farmers choosing Option 3A, the application of pesticides and chemical fertilisers within
2.5 metres of watercourses is prohibited.
Access by bovines to within 2.5 metres of watercourses must be prohibited before the end of
the first year of the plan or commencement of the plan where the option is carried forward
from a previous agreement and maintained thereafter. Fences must be a minimum of 2.5
metres from the top of the bank of the watercourse.
To participate in this Option,

A farm must have watercourses that require fencing

The farm must be planned to include bovines
Option 3B Exclude all bovine access to watercourses
This is a Category 2 Option
For farmers choosing Option 3B, drinking access to all watercourses on the farm is prohibited.
A minimum of two piped drinking troughs per farm must be provided in fields adjoining the
watercourse(s) in question.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of water quality.
To participate in this Option,

A farm must have watercourses that require fencing.

The farm must be planned to include bovines.
Option 3C Use of Planted Buffer Zone
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To reduce soil Phosphorus and prevent soil run-off to watercourses.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of water quality, biodiversity
and climate change.
80
Requirement:
To avail of this Option, vulnerable sites must be identified in the REPS Plan. Such sites would
include vulnerable sites identified under Measure 2. The requirement is to plant 1% of the
holding up to a maximum of 2,000 square metres with buffer strips along watercourses.
A buffer strip, a minimum of 5 metres wide must be planted with willow and/or alder or other
suitable species. In order to conserve Ireland’s genetic biodiversity the species selected
should originate from suitable indigenous sources of native seed. The buffer strip should not
encroach any closer than three metres from the top of the bank of the watercourse.
Plant spacing; willow
Alder
1.5m  1.0m
2.0m  1.5m
The site must be stock proofed by the end of the first year and all planting must be completed
by the end of the third year of the REPS contract.
Option 4A Creation of a New Habitat
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: To create new habitats on farms thus providing more space for wildlife to flourish
resulting in environmental gain. New habitats will also allow the development of a vegetation
structure of varying height more suitable for diversity of invertebrates.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and water
quality.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 4A must maintain a minimum of 0.2 hectares or 4% of their
contract area whichever is the greater subject to a maximum area of 0.8 hectares as land
allocated for habitat use. Suggested locations include areas peripheral to the farming activity
that are not existing habitats, areas along existing linear features, for example a weak
hedgerow. Plots must not be located on habitats identified in the plan or on land of high
nature conservation value. The area of any individual plot identified must be a minimum of 0.2
hectares, and have a minimum width of five metres.
These area(s) must be managed as follows –

Areas chosen under this option must be clearly identified on the REPS Plan.

Fencing: The plot/subplot identified must be fenced to exclude all livestock.

Management: The plot is not to be used for any agronomic activity and therefore
must be claimed as ‘other area’ in annual single payment scheme land declaration.

Use of herbicides: Control of noxious weeds with herbicides is permitted; however
application may only be by spot treatment.

Topping: If necessary, topping of these areas can take place after August 8th in any
year. Toppings must not be removed.
The prescription for Option 4A must be followed from the commencement of the plan.
81
Option 4B Broadleaved Tree Planting
This is a Category 1 & 2 Option
Objective: To encourage the planting of widely spaced mature trees having a significant visual
impact on the landscape. They provide a valuable habitat for invertebrates, birds, bats and
lichens.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape and
climate change.
Requirement for Category 1 Option: Farmers participating in Option 4B, must plant a
minimum of 2 broadleaved trees per hectare of contract area up to 30 hectares.
Requirement for Category 2 Option: Farmers participating in Option 4B, must plant a
minimum of 1 broadleaved trees per hectare of contract area up to 30 hectares.
The choice of suitable species, planting sites and soil preparation is critical to the successful
establishment of trees.
Tree planting must be carried out as follows:

Location: Trees must be planted in suitable sites. At least 25% of the trees must be
planted on sites other than field boundaries e.g. field corners, open spaces or to establish
a tree lined avenue at farm entrances. Trees must not be planted on boundaries adjacent
railway tracks or directly under over-head lines. The number of trees and the proposed
location must be clearly identified on the REPS Map.

What to plant: Once the sites have been chosen, the most suitable tree species should
be chosen from Appendix 5, Tables 2 & 3, based on the following considerations:
o
In order to conserve Ireland’s genetic biodiversity the species selected should
originate from suitable indigenous sources of native seed.
o
The use of native tree species must be prioritised.
o
Knowledge of trees that grow well in the area or on similar sites
o
Physical conditions of each site e.g. soil type, drainage, exposure etc.
o
Suitability of species for the use and size of each site. The planting distance
should be considered in the context of the ultimate height of the tree, providing
sufficient space to develop naturally.
o
At a minimum planting material should be bare rooted transplants approx. 1,000
– 1,200mm in height (strong whips) with a good root system.

Fencing: All stock must be completely excluded from the new plantings. Trees should be
protected from browsing animals.

Weed Control: It is essential to control growth of grass and weeds around the young
trees during the first four years. Unchecked vegetation growth will result in poor tree
establishment. Grass and weeds can be controlled by treading/cutting or by the use of
82
suitable herbicides or mulches. Herbicides must only be used in accordance with the
exceptions of Measure 6.

Planting of bare rooted transplants should be carried out during the dormant season
normally October – April but not when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Trees that fail to establish must be replaced.

At least 50% of the planting must take place by the end of Year 2 of the contract, with the
balance being planted by the end of Year 4.

Further information can be obtained from http://www.enfo.ie/
Option 4C Nature Corridors
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: The objective of this Option is to protect our extensive range of field margins as
they are an important source of plant diversity. Many field margins contain plants
characteristic of woodland, wetlands and grassland. Nature corridors act as a resource to
conserve wildlife. Within the landscape, corridors are used by wildlife for transportation and
protection.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape,
climate change and water quality.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 4C must maintain grass field margins a minimum of 2.5
metres wide from all grassland field boundaries. Re-seeding of this margin is not permitted.
The prescription for Option 4C must be followed from the commencement of the plan.
Management: The application of fertilisers or pesticides is prohibited within this margin with
exceptions as outlined in Measure 6. Additionally no application of farmyard manures or
slurries are allowed within this margin.
Option 4D Farm Woodland Establishment
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To create small woodlands and copses on farms and thereby increase biodiversity
and enhance the visual landscape.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, water quality
and climate change.
Requirement:
To avail of this Option the farmer must establish a woodland with an area equivalent to 2% of
the holding up to a maximum of 0.4 ha with suitable native species of local provenance where
available. The most suitable tree species must be chosen from Appendix 5, Tables 2 & 3 and
including whitethorn, blackthorn, hazel, holly, willow, crab apple, guelder rose, elder and other
83
suitable under-storey species. The minimum woodland plot size under this Option is 0.1 ha.
Trees spacing shall be 2.0m  1.5m: equivalent to 330 trees per 0.1 ha. Not more than 50%
of the planting should be of a single species and not more than 20% can comprise of understorey species. The woodland shall not be established on an archaeological site or habitat
identified under Measure 4. The planner must obtain NPWS approval if it is proposed to
establish the woodland on designated sites (NATURA 2000 etc.).
The farm woodland must be planted by the end of the second year of the REPS contract. The
plot(s) must be fenced to exclude all livestock. Areas of woodland will be considered
established when at least 80% of the original specified stocking levels, spread evenly over the
site, is above competing vegetation and is free growing.
Options 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D
It is possible for a participant to choose either one or a pro rata mix of the Options 5A, 5B, 5C
and 5D.
Option 5A Hedgerow Coppicing
Option 5B Hedgerow Laying
These are Category 1 Options
Objective: To rejuvenate hedgerows and thereby increase biodiversity and enhance the visual
landscape.
These REPS options are targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape
and climate change.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 5A and/or Option 5B must rejuvenate through either coppicing
or laying a minimum of 3 metres and 2 metres respectively of hedgerow per hectare annually
on a maximum of 20 hectares of their holding.
Half of this work must be completed by the end of the second year of the REPS contract, with
the remainder completed by the end of the fourth year.
For example a farmer with 20 ha must laying 40 metres x 5 years = 200 metres as part of his
REPS plan. Half of this work must be completed before the end of year 2, with the balance
being completed before the end of year 4.
Option 5C New Hedgerow Establishment
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: To establish new hedgerows on farms and thereby increase biodiversity and
enhance the visual landscape.
84
This REPS Biodiversity Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity,
landscape, water quality and climate change.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 5C must plant a minimum of 3 metres of hedgerow per
hectare annually on a maximum of 20 hectares of their holding. New hedgerow planting
includes the establishment of new hedgerows and the establishment of hedgerows along
remnant field boundaries. In order to conserve Ireland’s genetic biodiversity the species
selected should originate from suitable indigenous sources of native seed. New hedgerows
must not be planted on boundaries adjacent railway tracks.
Half of the work must be completed by the end of the second year of the REPS contract with
the remainder completed by the end of the fourth year.
For example, a farmer with 20 ha must plant 60 metres x 5 years = 300 metres as part of his
REPS plan. At least half of this work must be completed before the end of year 2, with the
balance being completed before the end of year 4.
Appendix 5 gives further information in relation to hedgerows.
It should be noted that the establishment of new hedgerows under Option 5C is
additional to the requirements under Measure 5.
Option 5D Additional Stonewall Maintenance
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: To maintain and enhance the network of stonewalls traditional to an area, increase
biodiversity and enhance the visual landscape.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and landscape.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 5D must maintain an additional 3 metres of stonewall per
hectare annually in excess of the basic requirement of Measure 5, on a maximum of 20
hectares of their holding. Half of this work must be completed by the end of the second year
of the REPS contract with the remainder completed by the end of the fourth year.
For example, a farmer with only stonewall boundaries must maintain an additional 3 metres
of stonewall per hectare on the first 20 hectares of his/her holding annually i.e. 60 metres x 5
years = 300 metres as part of his REPS plan.
Farmers with a mixture of stonewall and hedgerow undertaking Option 5D must maintain 3
metres of stonewall per hectare on the first 20 hectares in addition to the basic requirement
under Measure 5.
85
For participation in any of the Measure 5 options the precise location and length in metres
must be stated in the REPS plan.
Option 7A Increase in Archaeological and Historical Buffer Margins
This is a Category 2 Option
Objective: To further protect features of archaeological interest on farms and thereby enhance
the visual landscape.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and landscape.
Requirement:
Farmers choosing Option 7A must maintain a minimum buffer margin of 30 metres in
grassland and 7.5 metres in tillage land which meet the requirements of the core actions
under Measure 7.
Option 8A Traditional Irish Orchards
This is a Category 1 or Category 2 Option
Objective: to support our plant genetic resource by recreating orchards containing traditional
varieties of native Irish fruit trees. This will increase the biodiversity of the local landscape and
provide a habitat for wildlife on the farm. This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the
priority theme of biodiversity and landscape.
Participants availing of this Option must follow the prescriptions detailed below and in
Appendix 6 dealing with the establishment of traditional Irish Orchards.
Requirement:
For farmers with a holding of 10 ha or less this Option qualifies as a Category 1 Option while
for farmers with a holding of greater that 10 ha this is a Category 2 Option.
Any farmer participating in this Option must undertake:

Establish 500 sq metres of a traditional top fruit orchard from specified varieties:

Only varieties included in the Native Irish collection and which are included the
accompanying table may be planted. These varieties, and further information are
available
from
the
Irish
Seed
Savers
Association,
Scarriff,
Co.
Clare
(www.irishseedsavers.ie). If possible, varieties traditionally grown in the area should be
chosen from the list to be planted.

Trees must be planted before the end of the second year of the plan.

Refer to Appendix 6 for details.

This may not be undertaken as a supplementary measure if chosen as an Option.
86
Option 8B Install Bird and/or Bat Boxes
This is a Category 1 or Category 2 Option
Objective: to improve biodiversity around the farmyard by installing suitable bird and /or bat
boxes. This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and
landscape.
Requirement:
For farmers with a holding of 10 ha or less this Option qualifies as a Category 1 Option while
for farmers with a holding of greater that 10 ha this is a Category 2 Option.
Any farmer participating in this Option must undertake:
To install a minimum of 8 nest boxes (bird, bat or mix) before the end of the first year of the
REPS plan. An owl nest box and associated undertakings is deemed equivalent to 4 bird/ bat
boxes.
The type of nest box selected and its location should be targeted to priority species. Target
species include: Barn Owl, Spotted Flycatcher, Tree and House Sparrow, Starling, Stock
Dove, Kestrel, Swallow (see Appendix 6 for further information).
Bat Boxes
Bat boxes provide alternative roosts for bats. Various models are available to attract a
particular range of species. Bats may roost in a variety of sites including trees, buildings,
caves etc. Bat boxes should be attached to walls, trees or other suitable structures. Contact
should be made with NPWS or Bat Conservation Group, Deerpark House, Maio, Tierworker,
Co. Meath for detailed advice.
Barn Owls
This element is only available to farmers with suitable habitat areas (counties designated by
Birdwatch Ireland: see list of suitable counties in Appendix 6) Ideally nest boxes should be
located outdoors close to suitable habitat e.g. rough grassland. The box should face open
ground with the entrance visible to attract the owl. Boxes should only be installed below 150
m. OD, and 3 kilometres away from all major roadways. When considering the installation of
Barn Owl boxes advice and direction should be sought from Birdwatch Ireland.
Where Owl nest boxes are installed farmers must cease using second generation
rodenticides and replace with products less toxic to rodent predators e.g. Eradarat,
Eradamouse. Receipts of the rodenticide used must be retained for the duration of the REPS
contract.
In all situations the locations of bird and bat boxes must be identified by reference to the farm
map on the REPS plan.
87
Option 9A Green Cover Establishment
This is a Category and/or Category 2 Option
Objective: The objective of this Option is to provide a crop cover that will utilise residual
nutrients in the soil following the harvesting of a cereal or oilseed crop.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape and
water quality.
Green cover is defined as a crop established following the harvesting of a cereal or oilseed
rape crop and maintained until the following January 15th without cultivation. The usual crops
used in this situation are brassicas. Grass crops are not permitted.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 9A, must maintain a minimum of 14 hectares of contract area
green cover to qualify as a Category One Option. Alternatively, if a minimum of 7 hectares of
contract area is maintained, this Option is classed as a Category Two Option. This Option
may be availed of on conacre land.
The following are the management prescriptions for the retention of green cover:

Straw cannot be burned from the harvested cereal or oilseed rape crop.

Without ploughing, a cover crop must be established to ensure a green cover over the
winter. This must be established by 1st November.

Undersown crops or natural regeneration is not acceptable under this option.

Slurry or fertiliser must not be applied to the stubble after harvesting the cereal or oilseed
rape crop.

Between establishing the cover crop and the following January 15th:
o
It is permitted to graze the cover crop lightly (less than 0.5 LU per hectare).
o
Supplementary concentrate feeding sites must be rotated regularly.
o
It is not permitted to apply inorganic fertiliser, organic fertiliser or lime. These
nutrients are in excess of crop requirements during the winter period.
o
It is not permitted to apply pesticides.
Option 9B Environmental Management of Setaside
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: The objective of this Option is to provide food and safe nesting habitat for ground
nesting birds throughout the nesting season. It also offers an abundance of annual plant
seeds and so is very useful for seed eating birds throughout the winter. This is a particularly
important habitat on those farms that no longer have winter stubbles, but is a beneficial
habitat for birds on any arable farm.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape and
water quality.
88
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 9B, must maintain as setaside, a minimum of 0.3 hectares or
10% of their farmed area, subject to a maximum required area of 4.0 hectares whichever is
the higher. To participate in this Option, farmers must have a minimum of 7 hectares of arable
land in tillage crops or setaside. This Option may be availed of on conacre land.
The following are the management prescriptions for the maintenance of setaside.

On the setaside area a cover crop can be established by natural regeneration or
sowing. When sowing grass it is suggested to use a grass mix containing tussock
forming grasses e.g. fescues and bent grasses to provide a varied sward structure.

As it is compulsory to mow setaside between July 15th and August 15th, mowing
should be delayed as late as possible to protect late nesting birds.

REPS farmers participating in Option 9B are exempt from the requirement to mow the
total area setaside. These farmers must leave 25% of the setaside area unmown.
This unmown area should be targeted at boundaries of the setaside particularly along
thin hedgerows. This will allow the hedgerow to broaden out. In non-rotational
setaside, the unmown area should be rotated around the setaside area if it is not
targeted at the margins. Mowing of setaside must be carried out using the centre out
method to give nesting birds a chance to escape to alternative cover.

Mowings must not be removed from the site.

The total setaside area may be grazed with livestock between September 1st and
January 14th in accordance with the requirements of Measure 2. This will provide a
more varied structure to the sward and so enhance the abundance of invertebrates

Pesticides (including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, slug pellets and growth
regulators) must not be applied to the setaside except for the control of persistent
weeds such as dock, thistle and ragwort, which may be controlled by spot treatment.

Inorganic and organic fertiliser must not be applied to the total setaside area.

Storage areas for big-baled silage cannot be sited on the setaside area.
Option 9C Increased Arable Margins
This is a Category 1 and/or Category 2 Option
Objective: The objective of this Option is to create different types of conservation crop
margins, thus creating the space for the more characteristic plants and animals associated
with arable farms to survive.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, landscape and
water quality.
Requirement:
Farmers participating in Option 9C, must maintain a minimum of 14 hectares of arable land
with wider field margins to qualify as a Category One Option. Alternatively, if a minimum of 7
89
hectares is maintained, this Option is classed as a Category Two Option. (Setaside land does
not qualify under this Option) With the exception of watercourse margins, which will extend to
4.5 metres, all other margins must be a minimum of 3 metres wide, which is an increase of
the margins outlined in Measure 9 of 1.5 metres.
The following are the management prescriptions for the maintenance of arable field margins:

The margins should be positioned alongside those field boundaries, which will provide
maximum benefit for wildlife, for example next to woodland.

Alternatively, the margins should be established next to a south-facing hedge. Field
margins must be present on the identified fields for the five years of the contract. If at any
time after three years, the rough grass field margin is to be removed, derogation must be
sought from the Regional Inspector. The derogation request must be fully documented
with a suitable replacement margin identified.

One of three methods of establishing field margins must be followed:
o
Unsown 3 metre margins must remain uncultivated as set out in Measure 9.
o
Rough grass 3 metre field margins may be established by sowing a
recommended mix of grass seed at the rate of 20 kg per hectare, either in the
autumn or spring. Suitable grass species are given below.
o
With the exception of watercourse margins, 3-metre conservation field
margins may be established by sowing any cereal at 50% of the
recommended sowing rate.

With the exception of the cereal sown margins, the field margin must be mown at least
three times in the first year to a height no lower than five centimetres. This will promote
tillering of the grass and aid establishment.

Cereal sown margins may be harvested with the crop.

Mowing must only be carried out during the period July 15th to September 30th to minimise
the disturbance of ground nesting birds, such as skylarks and meadow pipits rearing
second broods.

Regular annual cutting of the rough grass field margin is not permitted. This destroys the
tussocks and the build up of leaf litter essential for the survival of over wintering insects.

Pesticides (including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, slug pellets and growth
regulators) must not be applied to field margins. Spray drift from adjacent fields not only
destroys this habitat, but also creates conditions for the growth of annual weeds.

Rough grass field margins must not be grazed.

After establishment no ploughing, cultivation, re-seeding, rolling or chain harrowing of
rough grass field margins is permitted.

Inorganic and organic fertiliser must not be applied to all field margins.

Supplementary feeding sites, drinking troughs and storage areas for big baled silage
must not be sited on these margins.
90
Table 1 - List of suitable grass species
 Sheep’s fescue
 Cocksfoot

Crested dogstail

Common bent

Sweet vernal

Creeping bent

Meadow foxtail

Rough stalked meadow grass

Red fescue

Smooth stalked meadow grass

Creeping fescue

Yorkshire fog
Grasses must be sown at a rate of 20kg/ha
Cocksfoot should not form more than 15% of the mixture, as it will tend to become too
dominant.
Varieties of perennial ryegrass and timothy grass must be sown at half the recommended
sowing rate.
Option 9D Low Input Spring Cereals
This is a Category 1 Option
Objective: To encourage the production of low input spring cereals in grassland dominated
farms that provides stubble over the winter after harvest.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and landscape
and support an increase in farmland bird populations.
Requirement:
To avail of this Option a farmer must conventionally sow and harvest each year of the REPS
contract a spring cereal crop on 10% of the holding subject to a maximum of 2 hectares.
Maximum fertilisation rates are set out in Table 2, Measure 1. The crop cannot be undersown
with grass and clover, nor can it be harvested as whole crop silage. This Option is available
only to grassland farmers who have no existing tillage enterprise. The plot must be identified
and the location can only be changed after year three of the REPS contract.
Option 9E Minimum-tillage
This is a Category 1 and/or Category 2 Option
Objective: To encourage the use of minimum-tillage practices, thereby improving soil
structure and increasing soil organic matter. For REPS purposes Minimum-tillage is taken as
the non-inversion of the soil for the purpose of crop establishment.
This REPS Option is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity, water quality
and climate change.
Requirement: To avail of this Option, a farmer must establish 14 Ha of cereals as a Category
One Option using minimum-tillage practices or 7 Ha of cereals as a Category 2 Option.
91
Any areas chosen for Measure 9 Options must be clearly identified in the REPS plan and
be notified to the Department in advance of any changes which may occur because of
crop rotations.
92
Conservation of NATURA 2000 and Other Priority Sites (Formerly Measure A)
Introduction
The areas to which this Measure applies are those that fall in one or more of the following
categories:
NATURA 2000 sites:
 Farmland-based Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated under Council
Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of NATURA Habitats
 Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under Council Directive 79/409/EEC on
the protection of Wild Birds
 Areas designated under the Water Framework Directive
Other Priority Sites:
 National Heritage Areas (NHAs) designated by the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government
 Commonage areas not designated as SAC or SPA.
In the course of the on site assessment of the farm prior to drawing up the plan, the planner,
in consultation with an environmentalist/ecologist, must consider the following:

The types of site on the holding.
o
NATURA 2000 sites
o
Other priority sites

The condition of these sites.

NPWS site management plan where appropriate.

Commonage Framework plans14 where appropriate.

The current management practices.

Other REPS farming prescriptions where appropriate.

The stocking density suitable to maintain the habitat.
Plan Preparation
The Planner, in consultation with the farmer, when preparing and drawing up the Plan, must
address the following principal issues:
A.
All commonage areas (NATURA and non-NATURA sites)
B.
Non-commonage NATURA 2000 and designated NHA sites
C.
Conditions Common to all Sites
14
Pending the availability of commonage framework plans the planner must make the farmer aware of the agreed
farming prescriptions detailed in Appendix 8.
93
A.
All commonage areas (NATURA and non-NATURA sites)
The Department of Agriculture and Food and the Department of Environment, Heritage and
Local Government have jointly prepared Commonage Framework Plans (CFPs) for the vast
majority of commonage target areas. These plans are available from:
http://www.commonage.agriculture.gov.ie
Individual REPS plans must comply with the provisions of the relevant Commonage
Framework Plan (CFP). The CFP sets out the requirements imposed as a consequence of
the lands being designated as SAC and SPA. The approved planner and an
environmentalist/ecologist must incorporate the NATURA 2000 and CFP requirements into
individual REPS plans and the following information must be included:

The identification code(s) of the relevant CFP.

The general site description, including the soil type, flora and fauna, water, landscape
features and other relevant environmental factors and any local variations.

The current land use and management activities.

The dominant habitat type.

The condition of the vegetation.

Specific environmental objectives and an annual time-scale by which to measure and
assess progress.

A grazing regime to include a sustainable stocking requirement (to protect against
both undergrazing and overgrazing).

A schedule of environmental restrictions to be observed on the land or on landscape
features, to protect watercourses, bogs and restore/maintain environmental value to
land.

Other conservation and restoration measures.
Destocking calculations must be clearly set out in the REPS Plan, as detailed in Appendix 7.
(Based on 2001 baseline).
B.
Non-commonage NATURA 2000 and designated NHA sites
There are agreed farming conditions for a number of specific habitats. These conditions set
down detailed prescriptions for each identified habitat type. Where relevant the REPS planner
must fully familiarise himself/herself with the conditions and incorporate them into the plan.
The conditions for the following have been agreed and are presented in Appendix 8:

The Burren

Blanket bogs, heaths and upland grasslands

Sand dunes and machairs

Shannon Callows Corncrake Habitat

Salmonid River SAC’s
94
In the absence of agreed farming conditions, the planner must consult the NPWS guidelines
“Nature on the Farm”. Where necessary the planner should consult the NPWS for
information on any specified conditions relating to the particular NATURA 2000 site and must
set down appropriate management conditions in the plan.
Where any such information is not available the planner and environmentalist/ecologist must
prepare an environmental report and a Site Quadrate Assessment (See Appendix 9) after
walking as much of the site as is necessary to determine the condition of the vegetation,
habitat type and percentage destocking reduction. Mapping and REPS plan requirements are
set out below.
To determine the current condition of the site, the planner and environmentalist/ecologist
must prepare an environmental report after walking as much of the site as is necessary to
determine the condition of the vegetation, habitat type and percentage destocking reduction.
Mapping and REPS plan requirements are set out below.
C.
Conditions Common to all Sites
An approved planner and environmentalist/ecologist must prepare individual REPS plans for
the above areas and the following information must be included:

The identification code(s) of the relevant CFPs and NATURA 2000 and NHA site
codes.

The general site description, including the soil type, flora and fauna, water, landscape
features and other relevant environmental factors and any local variations.

The current land use and management activities.

The dominant habitat type.

The condition of the vegetation.

Specific environmental objectives and an annual time-scale by which to measure and
assess progress.

A grazing regime to include a sustainable stocking requirement (to protect against
both undergrazing and overgrazing).

A schedule of environmental restrictions to be observed on the land or on landscape
features, to protect watercourses, bogs and restore/maintain environmental value to
land.

Other conservation and restoration measures.
Mapping and Plan Requirements for this Measure

Mapping Requirements
o
The planner(s) must outline the boundary of the commonage area on the map with a
red line. Within this, the area of Natura-designated commonage land must be
established by the planner and outlined with a broken orange line (hatched orange if
using e-REPS).
95
o
The planner(s) must outline the boundary of the non-commonage NATURA area on
the map with an orange line (hatched orange if using e-REPS. The area within the
orange line must be established by the planner.
o
The planner(s) must outline the boundary of the non-NATURA designated NHA (both
private and commonage separately) on the map with a purple line (hatched purple if
using e-REPS). The area within the purple line must be established by the planner.
o
The planner(s) must outline the boundary of the non-designated commonage, on the
map with a brown line (hatched brown if using e-REPS). The area within the brown
line must be established by the planner.

For commonage areas, the planner must prescribe a sustainable grazing regime
including stocking density, stock type and specific grazing period.

To establish the current condition of privately owned (including leased) NATURA 2000
areas and designated NHA areas for which no NPWS farming conditions are available,
the planner and environmentalist/ecologist must prepare an environmental report after
walking as much of the site as is necessary to determine the condition of the vegetation,
habitat type, percentage destocking reduction and sustainable levels of agricultural
activity.
Where the designated area is a long linear feature e.g. a river SAC, or it is clearly an
improved area of agricultural land (Classifications GA1, BC1 and BC2 as described in “
A Guide to Habitats in Ireland”), there is no requirement to carry out a field
assessment.
While walking the site, the planner and environmentalist, must take a representative
series of photographs for non commonage Natura 2000/NHA areas, with their precise
location and direction noted on the REPS map. At least 4 close detail colour
photographs, standard size, are required to show the range of habitats, condition of the
vegetation and any special items. As well as close detail photographs 2-3 medium
landscape shots should be taken. Photographs must be dated and numbered on the
back according to the map location and be included with the REPS application.

The environmental report must outline:
o
The general site description – the site synopsis available from NPWS web site –
http://www.npws.ie/
o
The current land use and management activities e.g.

Stocking rate (LU/ha) and stock type

Grazing period (total days and time of year)

Supplementary feeding

Scrub and weed control practices

Organic fertilizer inputs

Chemical fertilizers inputs

Tillage practices

Pasture improvements (reseeding, reclamation)
96

Woodland management

Turbary activity
o
The dominant habitat types and if appropriate, the extent of tree and scrub cover.
o
The current ecological condition of the vegetation on the site (see Appendix 8)
o
The conservation objectives -- If available, information from NPWS relating to the site
conservation plan must be included on the REPS plan.
o
Undertakings to achieve objectives

Specific grazing regime (including periods of grazing, stock types and
numbers) to be followed (may include destocking) taking into account the
current condition of the vegetation. In commonage areas, stocking levels
apply to Scottish Blackface sheep or similar medium sized sheep breeds.
Stocking levels for cattle or other stock should be at livestock unit applicable
rates taking account of Department of Agriculture and Food conversion rates
for the various stock types.
The stocking levels recommended in this
document are maximum sustainable rates for year round grazing. If shorter
periods of grazing are used the number of animals may be increased, though
not necessarily pro rata.

Other restoration measures taking into account the Notifiable Actions for the
site.
o
In the case of designated conacre land the planner must inform the farmer of the
notifiable actions associated with the site.
97
Supplementary Measures
Introduction
Supplementary Measures are designed to take account of the need to resolve specific
environmental problems that relate to the priority environmental themes of water quality,
biodiversity/landscape and climate change. These Supplementary Measures provide farmers
with the opportunity to respond to these themes at a local level.
Farmers who undertake Supplementary Measures will be entitled to payment as set out in the
following table:
Cumulation of Aid
Organic Payment
REPS basic Payment
REPS basic Payment
Plus
Plus
Plus
REPS basic
Plus
One of
Plus
LINNET
Riparian
Clover Swards
Minimum tillage
Low Input Cereal
Mixed Grazers
Traditional Grazing
Natura2000 Plus
And/or
Non Natura 2000 NHA
And/or
Non Natura 2000
CommonageAnd/or
Riparian1
Owned Natura or
Any one of
Linnet
Rare Breeds
Traditional Orchards
Riparian Zone
One of
Rare Breeds
Traditional Orchards
Wild Birds Habitat
# Lake Catchment
One of
LINNET*
Clover Swards*
Minimum tillage*
Low Input Cereal*
Traditional Grazers*
Mixed Grazing*
Rare Breeds
Traditional Orchards
Wild Birds Habitat
# Lake Catchment
1Where Riparian is selected none of SMs marked * in column 3 can be chosen.
#Lake Catchment SM will have limited application to specific lakes.
98
Supplementary Measure 1
Wild Bird Habitat
Farming conditions for the conservation of Corncrake (in Donegal and West Connacht),
Chough and Hen Harrier will be available during the course of REPS 4.
Corncrake Habitat on the Shannon Callows
Corncrakes are now confined to a handful of areas, mainly the Shannon Callows, North
Donegal and West Connacht. The farming conditions attached in Appendix 8 are targeted at
Corncrake habitat on the Shannon Callows. The Corncrake habitat comprises areas that have
regularly held corncrakes in recent years.
It consists mostly of hay meadow, but some
grazing areas are included where corncrakes have occurred in tall patches of nettles etc early
in the season and where farmers have removed stock to allow tall grass to grow during the
breeding season. The corncrake habitat area map for the Shannon Callows is available from
local AES offices and from BirdWatch Ireland (BWI). Other important Corncrake areas within
the Shannon Callows may be included in this supplementary measure where BirdWatch
Ireland or NPWS confirm the recent presence of Corncrake.
Corncrake Habitat Areas
Farmers within the SPA designated Corncrake habitat area i.e. hay meadows must participate
in this measure. The planner must, in consultation with the NPWS or their agents, identify
those areas of the farm that are in the Corncrake habitat area. In all cases, the identified
area/s must be maintained as hay meadow for the duration of the plan.
Participants of this measure within the identified Corncrake habitat area must follow the
management for corncrake habitat maintenance set out in Appendix 8. He/she must also sign
a declaration agreeing to participate with NPWS or their agents in helping to conserve the
Corncrake.
Payment will be made subject to submission of certificate of compliance signed by the NPWS
or their agents regarding the management requirements set in Appendix 8.
99
Supplementary Measure 2
Traditional Irish Orchards
Objective
To support our plant genetic resource by recreating orchards containing traditional varieties of
native Irish fruit trees. This will increase the biodiversity of the local landscape and provide a
habitat for wildlife on the farm.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and
landscape.
Participants availing of this Supplementary Measure must follow the prescriptions detailed
below and in Appendix 6 dealing with the establishment of traditional Irish orchards.
Requirement
Farmers must establish 500 sq metres of a traditional top fruit orchard from specified
varieties:

Only varieties included in the Native Irish collection and which are included the
accompanying table may be planted. These varieties, and further information are
available
from
the
Irish
Seed
Savers
Association,
Scarriff,
Co.
Clare
(www.irishseedsavers.ie). If possible, varieties traditionally grown in the area should be
chosen from the list to be planted.

Trees must be planted before the end of the second year of the plan.

Refer to Appendix 6 for details.

Applicants availing of Biodiversity Option 8A may not also participate in this
supplementary measure
100
Supplementary Measure 3
Conservation Of Animal Genetic Resources
The purpose of this measure is to assist farmers participating in REPS who rear animals of
the following native breeds that meet with the criteria of Article 39 of Regulation 1698/2005.
Cattle:
Kerry
Equines: Connemara Pony
Dexter
Irish Draught
Irish Maol (or Moiled)
Kerry Bog Pony
Sheep: Galway
Payment
Payment will be made on the average livestock units of registered animals per year, subject
to the requirements for participation listed below.
Livestock units for payment purposes only are calculated as follows;
Cattle below 6 months
0.4 L.U
Cattle 6 months to 2 years
0.6 L.U
Cattle over 2 years (including cows)
1.0 L.U
Equines over 6 months of age
1.0 L.U
Ewe (+/- Lambs at foot)
0.15 L.U
Ram
0.15 L.U
Ewe Lamb (6 months - 1 year of age intended/kept for breeding) 0.10 L.U
The above Livestock Units equivalents apply when an animal is kept for a full year. Payment
under this supplementary measure will be made at the end of the recording year based on the
monthly average over the recording year.
Requirements

The participant must be an active member of an approved breed society for the duration
of the REPS contract.

The participant must maintain an up to date monthly record of all registered animals
on the holding.

All female progeny from a purebred mating must be registered with the relevant breed
society.

All male bovine progeny from a purebred mating must be birth notified and/or registered
as appropriate with the relevant breed society. All male ovine and equine progeny must
be registered with the relevant breed society.

All animals eligible for payment must be clearly identified on the farm REPS record
sheets.
101

Bovines;
All female bovines less than 2 years of age are eligible to be included for
payment. An adult female (over 2 years of age) must be mated to a purebred
male of the same breed at each mating and must have produced offspring at
least once in the previous 2 recording years to qualify for payment, otherwise
these adult females will be excluded from the calculation of average LU’s over
the year. All male bovines less than 3 years of age are eligible to be included
for payment. Male bovines over 3 years of age may be included for payment
up to a maximum of 1 bull per 5 cows.
A bovine registered in the main section (in any class), or the supplementary
section of the herdbook is eligible for payment.

Equines.
It is a legal requirement that all equines have a passport (not a foal
certificate) (see bullets below), therefore. All equines must have a passport
(not a foal certificate) to be eligible for payment in this measure. All registered
female and male equines between 6 months and 3 years of age are eligible
to be included for payment. An adult female (over 3 years of age) must be
mated to a purebred male of the same breed at each mating and must have
produced registered offspring at least once in the previous 2 years to qualify for
payment, otherwise these adult females will be excluded from the calculation of
average LU’s over the year. All breeding stallions over three years of age will
be eligible for payment.

Irish Draught Horse breed: Animals with a breed code RID, ID and
AID animals may be eligible for payment.

Connemara pony breed: Animals in Classes 1, 2, 3 and 4 may be
eligible for payments.

Kerry Bog Pony breed: Animals in Classes 1, 2, 3 and 4 may be
eligible for payment.

Ovines.
All female ovines between 6 months of age and one year of age are eligible
for payment. An adult female (over 1 year of age) must be mated to a
purebred male of the same breed at each mating and must have produced
offspring at least once in the previous 2 recording years to qualify for payment,
otherwise these adult females will be excluded from the calculation of average
LU’s over the year. Male ovines under 1 year of age are not eligible for
payment. Male ovines over 1 year of age may be included for payment up to a
maximum of 1 ram per 5 adult ewes.

Documentary evidence of registration/birth notification as appropriate and identification
of the animal on which aid is being claimed must be retained for inspection by the
Department.
102

The planner must indicate in the agri-environmental plan if this Supplementary
Measure is being applied for.

The applicant must remain a member of the breed society for the period of the plan.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to declare the average livestock units eligible for
payment under SM3 from the farm record sheets and record this figure on the REPS
1C.
Breed Societies:
Kerry Cattle Society of Ireland
Ms. Raymonde Hilliard,
Secretary,
Cahernane,
Killarney,
Co. Kerry.
064 31840
secretary@kerrycattle.ie
UK Dexter Cattle Society
Mrs Yvonne Froehlich,
Secretary
Dexter Cattle Society,
1st Floor
RASE Offices
Stoneleigh Park
Warks
CV8 2LZ
Tel: 02476 692300
mailto:secretary@dextercattle.co.uk
www.kerrycattle.ie
www.dextercattlesociety.co.uk
Irish Moiled Cattle Society
Ms. Jane Light,
Secretary,
Irish Moiled Cattle Society,
7 The Terrace
Martinstown
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 9JY
0044 1305 889828
mjlight@bun.com
www.irishmoiledcattlesociety.com
Galway Sheep Breeders Society
Mr. Tom Murphy,
Assistant Secretary,
Shralea,
Creagh,
Co. Galway
090 9644233
teamurphy@eircom.net
Connemara Pony Breeders Society
Ms.Niamh Philbin,
Secretary,
The Showgrounds,
Clifden,
Co. Galway
095-21863
enquiries@cpbs.ie
Irish Draught Horse Society
Ms.Helen Kelly,
Secretary,
Derrynagara,
Collinstown,
Co. Westmeath
044-61199
idhs@eircom.net
www.cpbs.ie
The Kerry Bog Pony Co-Operative Society
Dr. Leo Curran,
Cuilin,
Macetown,
Tara,
Co Meath.
info@kerrybogpony.ie
www.kerrybogpony.ie
www.irishdraught.ie
103
Supplementary Measure 4
RIPARIAN ZONES
Objective
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to protect stretches of designated rivers by
creating linear buffer zones where no agricultural activity takes place. This will stabilise
riverbanks and intercept nutrients transported in overland flow. The development of these
zones will also provide suitable habitat for flora and fauna that sustain food webs important in
the river ecosystem.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted at delivering on the environmental themes of water
quality and biodiversity.
The designated rivers are those identified to contain either salmonid, freshwater crayfish or
pearl mussel species.

In the case of salmonid and freshwater crayfish rivers these zones must extend
between 10 – 30 metres with a maximum area of 4 hectares.

Where the pearl mussel is present, the zone must extend 20 – 50 metres with a
maximum area of 4 hectares.
The area must be permanently fenced by the end of year one (non-electric) to exclude
livestock but with suitable entry points by hung gate/s to facilitate machine entry for
maintenance work and stiles for access to fishing.
Riparian zones cannot be established on commonage, scrub, woodland or other areas not
currently under agricultural use.
Designated Waters
Designated rivers are those rivers identified by NPWS as Special Areas of Conservation.
In addition other important salmonid rivers and their main tributaries may be designated
where the local Regional Fisheries Board confirms that the river (excluding lakes and canals)
104
is important for fresh water breeding. A copy of this confirmation must be lodged with the
REPS application.
The specific plot designated under this Supplementary Measure cannot receive either REPS
basic payment or Natura rate payment. Areas designated under this Supplementary Measure
cannot be included as forage area under SFP application.
Maintenance Guidelines for Riparian Zones

Allow vegetation to develop naturally within the zone - do not apply fertiliser or
pesticide except with the permission of the NPWS/Central Fisheries Board.

Vegetation such as alder and scrub should be controlled to prevent closure across
the channel canopy.

Tree planting on up to 50% of the riparian zone with the following species is
recommended - oak, beech, willow, birch, ash, whitethorn, blackthorn or elder.
Conifers cannot be planted
Access for Regional Fisheries Boards
Employees of the Regional Fisheries Boards must be allowed access to riparian zones to
inspect and carry out such works as is deemed necessary by them. The creation of riparian
zones must not allow any other existing rights to be extinguished.
105
Supplementary Measure 5
LINNET (Land Invested in Nature, Natural Eco-Tillage) Habitats
Farmers who avail of this Supplementary Measure must grow a specific LINNET crop mix in a
designated plot(s) that encourages a diverse range of flora with the desired effect of
increasing wild bird populations. Farmers who avail of LINNET land management as part of
their core requirement under either Measure 1 or Measure 2 are not eligible for payment as a
Supplementary measure.
Plot Location

Plots must not be located on “habitats” identified in the plan, or on land of high nature
conservation value.

They must not be located on lands where waders breed at high concentrations.

They should not be located on waterlogged areas such as peat lands or other
seasonally flooded areas.

They must be located on lands where a successful tillage crop can be grown.

The crop must be grown for all five years of the REPS plan (and must be contract
area). The crop should be sited next to thick hedges where possible or next to
woodland or scrub where there are no hedges.
Plot Size

The minimum eligible area is 0.5 hectares, the maximum eligible area is 2.5 hectares.

If more than one hectare of wild bird cover is to be grown, then plots must be split up
over the farm.

Plots must be a minimum of 5 metres wide and 0.25 hectares in area.

Plots between 0.25 hectares and 0.5 hectares must be within 0.5 km of another
LINNET plot.

Plots between 0.5 ha and 1 ha can be located anywhere on the holding.
Preparation Of The Plot
Fencing: The area must be fenced or otherwise inaccessible to all livestock. It is not
necessary to exclude wild deer.
Fertilisation: Any fertiliser, lime or slurry applications must be in accordance with the
requirements of Measure 1. 50% normal application rates should suffice, as the intention is to
create a more open crop that increases access to fallen seeds for birds.
Pesticides: Pre-sowing weed control can be used, because the use of any pesticide
(including herbicides) is not permitted post sowing.
Sowing
106

A mix of at least two different crop types must be sown (e.g. cereals and brassicas).

Seed must be spring sown not later than May 31st.

Drilling is the preferred sowing method.

If broadcasting, increase seed rates by between one third (for smaller seeds) and a
half (for larger seeds).

Crop cover must be retained from establishment to the following March 1 st for oneyear mixes.

If kale is used in the mix, the plot must be left untouched for two winters not ending
before March 1st of the second winter.

No harvesting or grazing can take place.

If the eligible area on farm is split into a number of plots each plot must contain a
LINNET crop mix.
LINNET Crop Mixes
Wild Bird Cover can be made up of a mix that is sown every year or a mix that is sown every
other year. Recommended seed rates are lower than those for commercial crop production as
a more open crop increases access for birds to fallen seeds and weeds.
One year mixes: must contain a cereal (oats, triticale) and at least one species from the
following: Phacelia, oilseed rape, linseed, mustard. Do not include brassicas (oilseed rape,
mustard etc.) if using the one year mix as a break crop between kale mixes.
An example of a one year mix is oats and linseed. This mix is a good option on heavier, acid
soils e.g. 75 kg/ha of oats and 15 kg/ha of linseed. Where Brassicas are sown as part of a
one year mix, they must be sown in alternate strips to avoid the Brassica dominating over the
cereal.
Two year mixes: must contain kale and at least one from the following: oats, triticale, or
linseed. Kale is included because it is a biennial plant; the others are annual plants. Clubroot
resistant varieties of Kale such as ‘Caledonian’ should be sown. Sowing must be done in
alternate strips to avoid kale becoming dominant and preventing establishment of cereal.
Examples of two year mixes are given below:
Mix
Drilling Rates
Kale and linseed
1.5 kg/ha of kale and 15 kg/ha of linseed
Kale and cereal (oats, triticale)
1.5 kg/ha of kale and 75 kg/ha of cereal
The qualifying area for the basic REPS payment is reduced by the area designated under this
Supplementary Measure. Areas designated under this Supplementary Measure must be
included as cereal under SFP application.
107
Supplementary Measure 6
LOW INPUT SPRING CEREALS.
Objective
To encourage the production of low input spring cereals in grassland dominated farms by
allowing stubble regeneration over the winter after harvest providing winter feed for birds and
wildlife.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority theme of biodiversity and
landscape and support an increase in farmland bird populations.
This Supplementary Measure is not available to those farmers who have already chosen
REPS Biodiversity Option 9D.
Requirement
To avail of this Option a farmer must conventionally sow and harvest each year of the REPS
contract a spring cereal crop. The crop cannot be undersown with grass and clover, nor can it
be harvested as whole crop silage. This Supplementary Measure is available only to
grassland farmers who have no existing tillage enterprise.
The minimum plot size is 0.5 hectares with a maximum of 2.5 hectares. Plots must not be
established on habitats identified under Measure 4 as detailed in the REPS plan. The plot(s)
must be identified and the location can only be changed after year three of the REPS
contract.
Preparation Of The Plot
Fencing: The area must be fenced or otherwise inaccessible to all livestock.
Fertilisation: Any fertiliser, lime or slurry applications must be in accordance with the
requirements of Table 2, Measure 1.
Pesticides: Chemical weed and disease control can be used; however the use of insecticides
is not permitted.
The qualifying area for the basic REPS payment is reduced by the area allocated to this
Supplementary Measure.
108
Supplementary Measure 7
Minimum-tillage
For REPS purposes, minimum-tillage is defined as the non-inversion of the soil for the
purpose of crop establishment.
Objective
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to encourage the use of minimum-tillage
practices, thereby improving soil structure and increasing soil organic matter content.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity,
water quality and climate change.
This Supplementary Measure is not available to those who have availed of the Minimumtillage Biodiversity Option.
Requirement
To avail of this Supplementary Measure the farmer must establish, on the contract area,
cereal crops using minimum-tillage practices. Payment will be made on an area basis up to a
maximum of 40 hectares.
Plots must be identified in the REPS plan and are not
interchangeable.
109
Supplementary Measure 8
Traditional Sustainable Grazing
Objective
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to maintain farming activity on specific
habitats in danger of abandonment.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
water quality.
Requirement
The planner must identify Measure 4 grassland habitats that will benefit most from grazing
with traditional breeds. The following breeds qualify:
Cattle
Kerry or their cross
Dexter or their cross
Irish Maol (or Moiled) or their cross
Aberdeen Angus or their cross (min AAX on Animal Passport)
Shorthorn or their cross (min SHX on Animal Passport).
Hereford or their cross (min HEX on Animal Passport).
Galloway or their cross (min GYX on Animal Passport).
Equines
Connemara Pony
Kerry Bog Pony
Ovines
Galway ewe
Blackface Mountain and other local mountain breeds
A stocking level and grazing regime appropriate to the maintenance of the habitat must be
specified in the REPS Plan.
A minimum of 3 livestock units or 0.5 LU per hectare of grassland habitat, whichever is the
greater, must be of the above-mentioned breeds. The planner must clearly specify the plots
on which the traditional sustainable grazing is being practiced. Payment is calculated on the
basis of the area identified as grassland habitat under Measure 4.
This measure is not available on commonages or on areas identified under REPS Biodiversity
Options 2A or 2B.
A farmer availing of payment under Supplementary Measure 10 is not eligible for
Supplementary Measure 8.
110
Supplementary Measure 9
Incorporation of Clover into Grassland swards.
Objective
The objective of this Supplementary Measure is to contribute to the delivery of water quality
by promoting the incorporation of clover into grassland swards thus reducing the dependency
on Nitrogenous fertilisers.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of water quality and
biodiversity.
Requirement
Farmers who avail of this Supplementary Measure must incorporate clover in 80% of the
grassland swards of the farm subject to a maximum of 40 hectares reseeded with clover
whichever is the lower.
The undertaking must be carried out on a planned basis in
approximately equal areas each year.
The plan must outline this.
A minimum of 5
kgs/hectare of white clover seed must be used.
Plots selected for this Supplementary Measure must be clearly identified and seed
certification labels must be retained in accordance with Measure 11. Plots identified as
habitats under Measure 4 and plots availing of REPS Biodiversity Options 2A and 2B cannot
avail of this Supplementary Measure.
111
Supplementary Measure 10
Mixed Grazing
Objective
The objective of this measure is to maintain and increase biodiversity on grassland by
encouraging mixed grazing. The measure is available to farmers who graze both bovines and
sheep in a structured way that is targeted to deliver a diverse sward.
This Supplementary Measure is targeted to deliver on the priority themes of biodiversity and
landscape.
Requirement
A farmer must have an annual average of three or more livestock units on the holding made
up of cattle. These cattle can consist of either cows or drystock on the farm. The minimum
period of grazing by bovines is 3 months; as the period of grazing shortens, the minimum
level stocking increases on a pro-rata basis. The planner must clearly specify the plots to
which the mixed grazing is being practiced. While the measure requires a mix of both cattle
and sheep, the financial return to the farmer is calculated on the basis of the number of sheep
maintained. The maximum payment will be based on €50/ha to a maximum of 20 ha (€1,000
per annum). Each hectare that is paid on must have 4 ewes (i.e. 4 ewes/ha). Only privately
owned/leased land on the holding will be eligible for payment.
A farmer availing of payment under Supplementary Measure 8 is not eligible for
Supplementary Measure 10.
The specific requirements for the farm must be stated in the REPS plan.
112
Supplementary Measure 11
Lakes and Catchments
This supplementary measure will be available on a limited and voluntary basis and will initially
be introduced on a pilot basis in the Corrib catchment in the west of Ireland.
Further details on the implementation of this supplementary measure will issue under
separate cover.
Supplementary Measure 12
Heritage Buildings
Application Procedure
Application forms and an explanatory leaflet are available from the Heritage Council, Rothe
House, Parliament Street, Kilkenny. The application will include a description of the
buildings, an annotated plan of the farmyard, and a set of photographs, including one that
shows how the buildings appear from a public place, along with a costed specification of the
proposed works. Completed applications must be returned directly to the Heritage Council,
who will select the most appropriate projects each year. A formal letter of offer will issue to
successful applicants, who will be required to sign and return an acceptance sheet before
work commences.
113
APPENDIX - 1 Approved Soil Sampling Procedure
a) For sampling purposes divide the farm into fields or areas of 2-4 hectares.
Exceptionally where soil types are similar and cropping and treatment of lands were
the same during the previous five years; a sample area of up to 12 hectares may be
acceptable.
b) Take separate samples from areas that are different in soil type, previous
cropping
history, slope, drainage or persistent poor yields.
c) Avoid any unusual spots such as old fences, ditches, drinking troughs, dung or urine
patches or where fertilizer or lime has been heaped or spilled.
d) Do not sample a field for P and K until 3 months after the last application of P and K
and/or animal or other manures.
e) Follow a sampling pattern as shown in the figure below taking a soil core to the full
100 mm depth. Place the 20 cores in the soil box to make up the sample. Make sure
the box is full of soil.
f)
Write the LPIS no, field number and sample number on the soil box.
Figure 1: Sampling pattern
114
Table 1 - Laboratories Approved For Soil Analysis Under REPS
The following laboratories are approved to analyse soils in accordance with REPS.
Lab Code
Name
Address
A
AIRE Laboratories Ltd.
Cappagh Cross,
Ballyhooley, Fermoy,
Co. Cork
B
EURO Environmental Services
Unit 35,
Boyne Business park,
Drogheda,
Co. Louth
C
F.B.A. Laboratories Ltd.
F.B.A. Laboratories Ltd,
Carrigeen Industrial Estate,
Cappoquin,
Co. Waterford
D
Independent Analytical Supplies Ltd
Kilcarrig St.,
Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow
E
Oldcastle Laboratories Ltd.
Cogan Street, Oldcastle,
Co. Meath
F
OMAC Laboratories
Athenry Road, Loughrea,
Co. Galway
G
Southern Scientific Services
Dunrine,
Killarney, Co. Kerry
H
Teagasc Environmental Research Centre
Johnstown Castle,
Wexford
I
NRM Laboratories
Natural Resource Management
Ltd,
Coopers Bridge,
Braziers lane,
Berkshire,
RG42 6NS
J
Yara Phosyn Laboratories (Lancrop
Manor Place
Laboratories)
Wellington road,
The Industrial Estate,
Pockington,
York,
YO42 1DN
United Kingdom
The soil test analysis report from the approved laboratories must give the following information;
soil pH, lime requirement and phosphorus level.
115
APPENDIX – 2 Reference Tables
Reference Tables, reproduced from Statutory Instrument No. 378 of 2006
European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations
2006
Article 7
Table 1 - Slurry storage capacity required for sows and pigs
Unit type
m3/week1
Water:meal ratio
changing for finishers only
2.0:1
2.5:1
3.0:1
3.5:1
4.0:1
Breeding unit (per sow place)
-
-
-
-
0.174
Integrated unit (per sow place)
0.312
0.355
0.398
0.441
0.483
Finishing unit (per pig)
0.024
0.031
0.039
0.046
0.053
1
An additional 200mm freeboard must be provided in all covered tanks
and 300mm freeboard in all uncovered tanks
Allowance must also be made for net rainfall during the specified storage
period for uncovered tanks.
Article 7
Table 2 - Slurry storage capacity required for cattle, sheep and poultry
Livestock type
m3/week1
Dairy cow
0.33
Suckler cow
0.29
Cattle > 2 years
0.26
Cattle (18-24 months old)
0.26
Cattle (12-18 months old)
0.15
Cattle (6-12 months old)
0.15
Cattle (0-6 months old)
0.08
Lowland ewe
0.03
Mountain ewe
0.02
Lamb-finishing
0.01
Poultry - layers per 1000 birds (30% DM)
0.81
1
An additional 200mm freeboard must be provided in all covered tanks and 300mm freeboard in all
uncovered tanks. Allowance must also be made for net rainfall during the specified storage period for
uncovered tanks.
Article 7
Table 3 - Storage capacity required for dungstead manure
Solid fraction
Seepage fraction
Livestock type
(m3/week)
(m3 week)1
0.04
Dairy cow
0.28
0.03
Suckler cow
0.25
0.23
0.02
Cattle > 2 years
0.23
0.02
Cattle (18-24 months old)
0.13
0.01
Cattle (12-18 months old)
0.13
0.01
Cattle (6-12 months old)
0.07
0.01
Cattle (0-6 months old)
1Allowance
must also be made for net rainfall during the specified storage
period for uncovered tanks.
116
Article 7
County
Table 4 - Average net rainfall during the specified storage period.
Millimetres per week
Carlow
24
Cavan
27
Clare
32
Cork
37
Donegal
38
Dublin
17
Galway
34
Kerry
45
Kildare
18
Kilkenny
23
Laois
22
Leitrim
33
Limerick
26
Longford
23
Louth
20
Mayo
40
Meath
19
Monaghan
23
Offaly
20
Roscommon
26
Sligo
32
Tipperary
27
Waterford
31
Westmeath
21
Wexford
25
Wicklow
33
Article 8
Table 5 - Storage capacity required for effluent produced by ensiled forage
Minimum storage requirement
(m3/100 tonnes)
Short Term Storage1
Full Storage
Grass
7
21
Arable silage
7
21
Maize
4
10
Sugar beet tops
15
50
Crop
1 Only
permitted where a vacuum tanker or an irrigation system is available on the holding.
117
Articles 13 and 20
Table 6 - Annual nutrient excretion rates for livestock
Livestock type
Total Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
kg/year
kg/year
Dairy cow
85
13
Suckler cow
65
10
Cattle (0-1 year old)
24
3
Cattle (1-2 year old)
57
8
Cattle > 2 years
65
10
Mountain ewe & lambs
7
1
Lowland ewe & lambs
13
2
Mountain hogget
4
0.6
Lowland hogget
6
1
Goat
9
1
Horse (>3 years old)
50
9
Horse (2-3 years old)
44
8
Horse (1-2 years old)
36
6
Horse foal (< 1 year old)
25
3
Donkey/small pony
30
5
Deer (red) 6 months - 2 years
13
2
Deer (red) > 2 years
25
4
Deer (fallow) 6 months - 2 years
7
1
Deer (fallow) > 2 years
13
2
Deer (sika) 6 months - 2 years
6
1
Deer (sika) > 2 years
10
2
Breeding unit (per sow place)
35
8
Integrated unit (per sow place)
87
17
Finishing unit (per pig place)
9.2
1.7
Laying hen per bird place
0.56
0.12
Broiler per bird place
0.24
0.09
Turkey per bird place
1
0.4
118
Articles 15 and 20
Table 7 - Amount of nutrient contained in 1m3 of slurry
Livestock type
Cattle
Pig
Sheep
Poultry – layers 30% DM
Total Nitrogen (kg)
5.0
4.2
10.2
13.7
Total Phosphorus (kg)
0.8
0.8
1.5
2.9
For the purposes of calculation, assume that 1m 3 = 1000 litres = 1 tonne.
Articles 15 and 20
Table 8 - Amount of nutrients contained in 1 tonne of organic fertilisers other than
slurry
Livestock type
Total Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
(kg)
(kg)
Poultry
broilers/deep litter
11.0
6.0
manure
layers 55% dry matter
23.0
5.5
Turkeys
28.0
13.8
Dungstead manure (cattle)
3.5
0.9
Farmyard manure
4.5
1.2
Spent mushroom compost
8.0
2.5
Total nitrogen & total phosphorus content per
tonne shall be as declared by the supplier in
accordance with the Waste Management (Use
Sewage sludge
of Sewage Sludge in Agriculture) Regulations,
1998 to 2001 and any subsequent amendments
thereto.
Total nitrogen & total phosphorus content per
Dairy processing residues and other
tonne based on certified analysis shall be
products not listed above
provided by the supplier
119
Article 15
Table 10 - Determining nitrogen index for tillage crops
Continuous tillage: - crops that follow short leys (1-4 years) or tillage crops
Nitrogen Index
Previous crop
Index 1
Index 2
Index 3
Index 4
Cereals
Sugar beet
Maize
Fodder beet
Potatoes
Mangels
Kale
Oil Seed Rape Peas,
Beans
Leys (1-4 years)
grazed or cut and
grazed.
Swedes removed
Swedes grazed in
situ
Any crop receiving
dressings of organic
fertiliser
Vegetables receiving Vegetables receiving
less than 200 kg/ha
more than 200 kg/ha
nitrogen
nitrogen
Tillage crops that follow permanent pasture
Index 1
The 5th tillage crop
following permanent
pasture.
For subsequent
tillage crops use the
continuous tillage
table.
Previous crop
Index 2
Index 3
Any crop sown as the Any crop sown as the
3rd or 4th tillage crop
1st or 2nd tillage crop
following permanent
following permanent
pasture. If original
pasture (see also
permanent pasture
Index 4). If original
was cut only, use
permanent pasture
index 1
was cut only, use
index 2
120
Index 4
Any crop sown as the
1st or 2nd tillage crop
following very good
permanent pasture
which was grazed
only
Article 16
Table 16 - Maximum fertilisation rates of nitrogen on tillage crops
Nitrogen Index
Crop
1
2
3
4
Available Nitrogen (kg/ha)
Winter
Wheat1, 2
190
140
100
60
Spring
Wheat1, 2
140
110
75
40
Winter
Barley1
160
135
100
60
Spring
Barley1
135
100
75
40
Winter
Oats1
145
120
85
45
Spring
Oats1)
110
90
60
30
Sugar Beet
195
155
120
80
Fodder Beet
195
155
120
80
Potatoes: Main crop
170
145
120
95
Potatoes: Early
Potatoes: Seed
155
155
130
130
105
105
80
80
Maize
180
140
110
75
0
0
0
0
Oilseed Rape
225
180
160
140
Linseed
75
50
35
20
Swedes/Turnips
90
70
40
20
Kale
150
130
100
70
Field Peas/Beans
Forage Rape
130
120
110
proof of higher yields is available, an additional 20kg N/ha may be
applied for each additional tonne above the following yields;
Winter Wheat - 9.0 tonnes/ha
Spring Wheat - 7.5 tonnes/ha
Winter Barley - 8.5 tonnes/ha
Spring Barley - 7.5 tonnes/ha
Winter Oats – 7.5 tonnes/ha
Spring Oats – 6.5 tonnes/ha
The higher yields shall be based on the best yield achieved in any of the
three previous harvests, at 20% moisture content.
1 Where
2
Where milling wheat is grown under a contract to a purchaser of milling
wheat an extra 30 kg N/ha may be applied
121
90
APPENDIX – 3 Reference Tables
Additional Reference Tables for the production of Nutrient Management Plans
Table 1 - ANIMAL HOUSING REQUIREMENTS
Livestock
House Types
No. of animals places
Horses
Loose house
15 m2
Cubicle Kennel and Slatted Houses
Loose House
1 place per cow
4m2 per cow
Cubicle, Kennel and Slatted
Houses
Slatted Houses (no calves)
Slatted Houses (with calves)
1 per cow
2.5 to 3.0m2 per cow
allow 1m2 extra for spring born
and 1.75m2 extra for Autumn born
calves
Loose Houses
Or
Combination of loose house and
slatted feeding area
3.5m2 to 4.0m2 per cow
where calves run with cows
allow 1m2 extra as for loose house
> 275Kgs
Cubicle, Kennel Houses
Slatted, Sloped Floor House
Loose House
1 cubicle per animal
Animal Area 2.0m2 per animal
Internal Area 3.0m2 per animal
Smaller Cattle
< 275 Kgs
Slatted House/Sloped Floor House
Loose House
Internal Area 1.2m2 per animal
Internal Area 2.0m2 per animal
Dairy Cows
Suckler Cows
Other Cattle
* Calves
< 150 Kgs
150 <220 Kgs
>220 Kgs
Sheep
Ewes
Store Lambs
Pen space per animal
Group Pens
1.5m2
1.7m2
1.8m2
Internal Area 1.0m2 to 1.2m2 per
ewe
Internal Area 0.75m2 per lamb
Fully Slatted houses
Fully Slatted houses
In the case of straw bedded houses for sheep add 10% in area.
Minimum area, Article 4, S.I. No. 138 of 1998, laying down minimum standards for the
protection of calves
To facilitate the conversion of volumes to weights and vice versa, approximate bulk density
figures for concentrated organic materials are provided hereunder
Slurry
Poultry Manure (broiler litter)
Poultry Manure (layer droppings)
Poultry Manure (layer droppings - air dried)
Dungstead Manure
Farmyard Manure
Spent Mushroom Compost
122
1.0 tonnes/ m3
0.4 “
“
1.0 “
“
0.4 “
“
0.9 “
“
0.77 “ “
0.5 “ “
Table 2 - ESTIMATE OF NEAT EXCRETA PRODUCED BY VARIOUS CATEGORIES OF
ANIMAL
Estimated quantities of neat excreta produced by the different classes of animal (av. wt
animals)
Description of animal
Volume (Litres/Week)
Remarks
Goats and Horses
Goat
20
Horse
193
Pony
116
Deer
Red (96 - 120 Kg)
feeding
Fallow (50 Kg)
feeding
Sika (55 - 60 Kg)
feeding
42 plus 16.0 if 40 - 60Kg calf is housed for
Poultry
Broilers (100 places)
from day olds to 35 - 49days
16 plus
8.0 if 20 - 30 Kg calf is housed for
17 plus
8.0 if 20 - 30 Kg calf is housed for
45
Av. figure per crop (5.5 per year) - litter
included
Turkeys (100 places)
from day olds to 120 days
included
72
Rabbit
Greyhounds
1.9
15
Av. Figure per crop (2-3 per year) - litter
Table 3 - Straw Bale Densities1 (2003 Data)
Round Balers
Standard
Round
Size (m)
Volume (m3)
Avg
Density(kg/m3)
Avg Weight
(kg)
High Density Square
Conventional
Large
Round
Big
Square
Medium
square
Medium
small
1.25
X
1.25
1.55
x
1.25
1.29
x
1.25
x
2.4
0.85
x
0.85
x
2.4
0.9
x
0.6
x
2.4
0.36
x
0.46
x
0.9
1.53
2.36
3.87
1.734
1.34
0.15
90
90
150
150
140
110
137.7
212.4
580.5
260.1
187.6
16.5
80
140
141
130
90
188.8
541.8
244.494
174.2
13.5
120
175
175
170
130
283.2
677.25
303.45
227.8
19.5
Normal range
Low Density
(kg/m3)
80
Low Weight
(kg)
122.4
High Density
(kg/m3)
120
High Weight
(kg)
183.6
1 SOURCE: Teagasc
123
Small Square
Table 4 - Farm Yard Manure Production
Estimated quantities of FYM produced by different classes of livestock (average weight
animals)
Type of Animal
Straw Usage
Kg/week
Urine absorbed
Litres/week
Excess Urine
Litres/week
20
30
55
20
30
49
50
75
137
50
75
122
87
62
Nil
72
47
Nil
Volume of
FYMm3/week
(where allowed
to accumulate
under stock)
0.340
0.442
0.700
0.324
0.427
0.623
16
20
46
40
50
116
76
66
Nil
0.265
0.306
0.575
25
35
65
12
17
38
16
10
8
39
39
3.4
40
30
Nil
25
20
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
0.159
0.200
0.324
0.083
0.103
0.187
0.077
0.046
0.030
0.59*
1.47*
0.053
0.011
0.03
0.005
0.026
0.004
0.026
46
175
0.238
Dairy Cow
Dairy Cow
Dairy Cow
Suckler Cow
Suckler Cow
Suckler Cow
Beef Cattle
450 Kg L.W.
"
"
Young Cattle250 Kg L.W.
10
14
26
Calf140 Kg L.W.
5
7
15
Lowland Ewe
7
Mountain Ewe
4
Lambs - Finishing
3
Horses *
28
Horses *
84
Red Deer Mature
Red Deer Calf
Fallow Deer Mature
Fallow Deer Calf
Sika Deer Mature
Sika Deer Calf
Goat
1.4
Pigs – Typical Commercial Unit (Farrow to Finish)/sow
19
In calculating the volumes of solid manure (FYM) produced, account is taken of total faeces less
evaporation, the quantity of straw used and the volume of urine absorbed. To arrive at these figures
account must also be taken of the density of the bedding material used, as follows:
Table 5 - Density and Absorbency of Selected Bedding Materials
Materials
Baled Straw
Chopped Straw
Loose Straw
Newspaper – shredded and baled
Sawdust (dry)
Sawdust (moist)
Peat - sphagnum (baled)
Peat - sphagnum (loose)
Peat - Fen (loose)
Wood shavings (softwood)
Bulk Density
Kg/m3
130
109
64
190
192
215
500
210
300
190
Net Water Absorbency in Litres/Kg
of bedding
2.5
2.5
2.5
3.3
2.5
1.9
3.5
3.5
1.75
1.5
Where straw or shredded newspaper is used as litter and the bedding is allowed to accumulate under
the stock it is suggested that a reduction of half the original volume be applied in calculating the storage
volume required.*There is no accumulation and therefore no compaction in the case of horse manure.
124
Table 6 - Soiled Water Figures
Soiled water produced in a 6 unit (48 - 50 cow) milking premises depending on available
facilities
Total amount of water (litres/day)
Cleaning milking machine
380
Cleaning bulk tank
90
Udder Washing
88
Dairy Washing
68
Total
626
Volume/cow/day
Soiled water storage required/cow/week
13 litres
91 litres
Plate cooler Unit
Where this equipment is installed there is a water requirement of 23 litres per cow per day.
Such water should ideally be re-used; however, since it will have a temperature of 24ºC to
30ºC, bacterial growth will take place if stored for some time. For this reason it is only
suitable for either udder washing, pre-rinsing or detergent washing of the milking machine.
Any surplus should be drained to the clean water disposal system.
Table 7 Storage and Disposal of Soiled Water
System of disposal
Interval of Spreading
Vacuum Tanker
7 – 10 days
Manually operated
pump and sprinkler
system and 3
chamber holding
tank
Automatic pump
and sprinkler
system + 3 chamber
holding tank
Irregular 4 - 10 days
Automatic pump
and mobile irrigation
system and 3
chamber holding
Tank
All systems
Daily
Soils of suitable
permeability
Irregular from daily
up to 12 weeks or
longer in exceptional
circumstances
(a) Difficult soils with
low moisture deficits.
Poor trafficability,
Moderate/steep
gradients. Proximity
to lakes and
watercourses.
(b) Shallow free
draining soils over
permeable sub-strata.
Daily
Design
Considerations
Soils of suitable
permeability
Soils of suitable
permeability; regular
movement of
sprinklers. Danger of
dry running of pumps
Soils of suitable
permeability; regular
movement of
sprinklers.
Storage requirements
Soiled water from all
sources for a 10 day
period
Soiled water from all
sources for a 10 day
period
The highest daily
rainfall, equivalent to
7 normal days on
soiled areas, plus 3
day storage of other
soiled
water/washings from
milking premises etc.
Ditto as above
*Soiled water from all
sources for up to 12
weeks or longer
where no alternative
options are available.
Rainfall, a minimum
per week as
appropriate on soiled
area for the storage
period.
*Allowance should be made where a dairy farmer is not engaged in winter milk production.
125
APPENDIX 4 - Central and Regional Fisheries Board Addresses
1
CENTRAL FISHERIES BOARD
Balnagowan, Mobhi Boreen, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
Tel: 01 - 8379206; Fax: 01 - 8360060
2
EASTERN REGION
Eastern Regional Fisheries Board,
15A Main Street, Blackrock, Co. Dublin
Tel: 01-2787022; Fax: 01-2787025
3
SOUTHERN REGION
Southern Regional Fisheries Board, Epworth, Anglesea Street,
Clonmel, Co Tipperary.
Tel: 052 - 23624, 24932; Fax: 052 - 23971
4
SOUTH-WESTERN REGION
South-Western Regional Fisheries Board,
Sunnyside House, Macroom, Co Cork.
Tel: 026 - 41221, 41222; Fax: 026 - 41223
5
SHANNON REGION
Shannon Regional Fisheries Board,
Ashbourne Business Park,
Dock Road,
Limerick.
Tel: 061-300238; Fax: 061-300308
6
WESTERN REGION
Western Regional Fisheries Board, The Weir Lodge, Earl's Island,
Galway.
Tel: 091 - 563110, 563118, 563119; Fax: 091 - 566335
7
NORTH-WESTERN REGION
North-Western Regional Fisheries Board, Ardnaree House, Abbey Street,
Ballina, Co Mayo.
Tel: 096 - 22788; Fax: 096 - 70543
8
NORTHERN REGION
Northern Regional Fisheries Board, Station Road, Ballyshannon,
Co Donegal.
Tel: 071-9851435; Fax: 071-9851816
126
APPENDIX 5 – Hedgerow Information
Guidelines for Rejuvenation/Coppicing/Laying of Hedges/Establishing of New
Hedgerows.
When is rejuvenation appropriate?
Unmanaged hedgerows have a natural lifespan of up to forty years and since there is only
very limited natural regeneration (seeding) within a hedgerow, over time hedgerows lose
vigour, become thin at the base and eventually die out. Rejuvenation allows the natural
lifespan of hedgerow plants to be extended almost indefinitely.
Rejuvenation is major surgery and should only be carried out on relatively healthy i.e. not
diseased hedgerows. Rejuvenation extends the natural life of the hedgerow by interrupting
the natural aging process. When a hedge is cut, the plants will react in two ways. Firstly,
dormant buds sprout just before the cut. Secondly, the plants begin to grow more vigorously
to counteract the damage inflicted by cutting. This results in an overall thickening of the
hedgerow.
A Comparison Between Coppicing and Laying Hedgerows
Coppicing
Effect of Species
Most
Laying
hedgerow
suitable
for
species
are
Most suitable for stems of 50-
coppicing.
An
200mm diameter at the base.
exception is Beech
Height of approx. 2.5 – 4.5
metres.
Effect on Shelter
Loss of shelter.
Reasonable shelter retained.
Effect on Wildlife
Improves diversity of ground flora
Hedge retained can still flower
but generally worse for wildlife
and fruit and provide nesting for
than laying.
birds.
Dramatic impact on landscape.
Less impact on the landscape
Effect on
Landscape
and has advantage of aesthetic
qualities.
Laying of Hedgerows

Hedgerow laying involves the part cutting through of selected stems, bending them
over at an angle of 70 - 80 degrees and securing the branches and stems to stakes
driven into the hedgerow bank. There are many variations of hedgerow laying. The
most suitable and effective method should be chosen. Additional information may be
found at http://www.crann.ie/ , http://www.hlai.ie and http://www.teagasc.ie/

A downward angled cut is made (with a billhook, axe or chainsaw) approx ¾ through
the stem (experience will tell you how far to go). The stem is then laid over.
127

The heel or stub is cut off at a sloping angle near the ground to encourage re-growth
from the ground but also to prevent injury to livestock and allow water run-off.

A long, thin tongue or hinge allows the laid stem to be twisted and positioned to best
advantage.

Laid stems are secured to prevent them being damaged by livestock rubbing or
pushing against the hedge and to prevent damage from strong winds. Cut stems are
secured to posts driven into the hedge bank interwoven with suitable rods
(hazel/willow) to give stability.
Coppicing of Hedgerows
Long neglected and overgrown hedges with sufficient vigour may be coppiced (cut back to 10
cm. from ground level). This may be carried out with a chainsaw or circular saw. Gaps should
be filled by in-planting similar species. e.g. blackthorn or holly quicks. New growth that
emerges from ground level must be protected by fencing from livestock and weed competition
until established.
Only broadleaf species are suitable for coppicing; in general conifers do not regenerate from
cut stumps.
Species that will regenerate when coppiced include:
Hawthorn ( Crataegus monogyna), Birch (Betula pendula), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Willow
( Salix alba), Poplar ( Populus nigra)), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Sycamore (Acer
pseudoplatanus), Oak (Quercus
spp.). Hazel (Corylus avellana), Sweet Chestnut (
Castanea sativa), Holly (Ilex aquifolium).
New Hedgerow Establishment
Guidelines for Site preparation

Avoid water logged, shallow and very exposed sites

Ensure the site has sufficient soil

Avoid planting the hedge too close to a wall or fence

Burn off a metre strip of vegetation beforehand by using one of the following methods:

o
Glyphosate preferred option in summer repeat 4 weeks pre planting
o
At least once pre planting
o
Cover with black polythene (1m wide) at least for 6 months
Plough or break up soil in a trench
o
0.6m wide and 0.3m deep
o
using plough or mini digger with 25cm bucket

Add well composted FYM or compound fertiliser

Rotovate soil

Mound planting is recommended where drainage is not ideal.

Form a potato ridge. Deeper rooting depth leads to better drainage.
128
Species selection
In order to conserve Ireland’s genetic biodiversity the species selected should originate from
suitable indigenous sources of native seed. Species selection should be considered in the
context of the desired function of the hedgerow. A multi-species hedge will have more wildlife
and aesthetic interest while a stockproof hedgerow will require a predominance of thorny
species. A stockproof hedge should have a minimum of 80% thorny species.
Select species suitable to the site. A mix of species is more attractive and valuable to wildlife.

Use of native species of Irish origin must be prioritised.

Use hawthorn as the dominant species.

Include other suitable species as desired: Choose from native plants e.g. blackthorn,
hazel, holly, spindle, dog rose, crab, guelder rose etc.

Look around you – follow nature’s example.
Planting Guidelines
Plant between November and February
Don’t plant in very wet or frosty conditions

Plant density for a stock proof hedgerow should be 8 plants per metre run.

Plant hawthorn in single rows (at c.140mm centres) or double staggered rows (c.400mm
apart and c.375mm between rows).

Plant a multi-species hedge in a single row at suitable plant spacing. Depending on
species selection aim for 4- 6 plants per metre run.
After planting care
Aftercare is essential for the successful establishment of the newly planted hedge!
Trim back spindly top growth of hawthorn to encourage basal growth.
Fence appropriately to exclude all stock and to protect against rabbits and hares.
Grass and weeds must be controlled
Different control methods

Black polythene

Biodegradable mulches e.g. wood chippings

Mechanical/manual control

Herbicides applied according to Measure 6
Replace dead plants at the appropriate time.
129
Table 1 - Native Hedgerow Species
Species
Whitethorn (Hawthorn)
Crataegus monogyna.
Blackthorn or Sloe
Prunus spinosa.
Hazel
Corylus avellana
Holly
Ilex aquifolium.
Gorse ( Furze or Whin )
Ulex europaeus
Willow
Salix species.
Crab Apple
Malus pumila.
Characteristics
Sites
Ubiquitous native hedge plant tough,
hardy and fast growing. Withstands
hard cutting and laying. Displays
great variation in flower hue at
blossom time. An important source
of pollen and nectar for
invertabrates ; major bee forage
plant.
Quickgrowing shrub, forming an
impenetrable stockproof barrier
when well established. Throws out
root suckers requiring regular
management. Excellent plant for
gapping hedgerows. Stands up well
to cutting. Can be propagated from
rooted suckers. Tends to become
bare at the base.
Hazel is very suitable to coppice and
lay. It has high amenity and wildlife
value: an important early source of
pollen for bees The coppiced stems
have many uses.
Slow growing evergreen with high
amenity value. Forming a tough
stockproof barrier. Good plant for
gapping . Susceptible to frost
damage.
Abundant in drier parts of Ireland.
Does not form a good stockproof
barrier on its own. Should be cut
back hard when it gets leggy and
thin at the base. Gorse should not
be laid but trimmed in late Winter.
Willow is a native tree, the many
speces hybridise readily. The tree is
fast growing, producing heavy wood.
The plant lends itself to laying.
Willows make poor stockproof
hedges yet have high wildlife and
amenity value. The male flowers,
catkins, are an early source of pollen
for bees.
A good hedge can be made with
crab, it is less impenetrable than
Hawthorn or Blackthorn. Should be
mixed with other species. Provides
good wildlife habitat and has high
amenity value.
Tolerant of most soils except where
very wet. Does not thrive at high
elevations. Susceptible to Fire Blight
disease; should not be planted near
tree\shrub nurseries or commercial
orchards.
130
Blackthorn does well on heavy and
sandy soils. Salt tolerant, suitable for
coastal and exposed situations.
Hazel does well on loams and mildly
acid soils. Not tolerant of wet
situations. Good choice for
freedraining limestone soils.
Holly will grow on clay soils, sands
and gravel. Very tolerant of shade.
Will not grow on wet sites. Both
male and female plants are required
to produce berries.
Gorse does well on poor light soils.
Will grow on very dry and exposed
sites where other species cannot
thrive. It is salt tolerant and suitable
for coastal and exposed sites.
Useful for wet sites where species
choice is limited. Will tolerate
flooding. Can be propagated from
hardwood cuttings.
Suited to free draining fertile soils,
will not thrive in heavy cold clays.
Crab apple occurs intermittently in
hedgerows and where present
should be retained and allowed
develop to maturity.
Table 1 contd – NATIVE HEDGEROW SPECIES
Species
Elm.
Ulmus species.
in particular Ulmus glabra.
Dog Rose.
Rosa species.
Briars, Blackberry.
Rubus species.
Guelder Rose
Viburnum opulus
Elder
Sambucus nigra.
Woodbine, Honeysuckle.
Lonicera periclymenum.
Clematis. Travellers Joy,
Clematis vitalba.
Spindle-tree, Pegwood,
Euonymus europaeus.
Ivy
Hedera helix.
Characteristics
Wych Elm ( Ulmus glabra. ) is a rare native now only encountered in
mountain glens in the North West. English elm ( Ulmus procera) was
reintroduced in Norman times. Elm never attained the importance in
hedgerows here as in England. It was originally planted as an ornamental
parkland tree. Despite the ravages of Dutch Elm Disease, it is often
encountered in hedgerows as suckers that may eventually succumb to
the disease. Where present, it should be retained.
Dog Rose and other related rose species are a common constituent of
hedgerows scrambling through trees and shrubs. Their blossoms and
fruit (hips) have high amenity value and are an important source of food
for wildlife. Where present they should be retained.
Briars often provide extra stockproofing in a hedge. The flowers and fruit
provide a wide range of food for wildlife. Blackberry is an important bee
plant in Ireland. Briars left unchecked will encroach out into fields by
means of tip rooting and should be controlled.
Handsome hedgerow shrub with high amenity value. Large vigorous
shrub with lobed maple like leaves which colour richly in Autumn. The
white flowers produced in June and July are followed by crimson fruits
which are eaten by birds.
A ragged, gnarled, small tree common in hedgerows with greyish corky
bark and branches containing a soft pith. The white flowers are followed
by bunches of purplish fruits. Flower and fruit provide food for a wide
rang of wildlife species.
Woodbine is a climbing shrub scrambling through hedgerow trees and
shrubs. It has high amenity value. The fragrant flowers provide nectar
and pollen for insects and are followed by crimson berries readily eaten
by birds.
A climbing shrub often completely covering hedges and bushes. It climbs
by twisting it’s leaf stalks around other plants. The small insignificant
greenish cream flowers attract bees and flies. The masses of feathery
fruits so conspicuous in Autumn and Winter give this plant the colloquial
name “Old Man’s Beard”. A shrub that thrives in limey soils. Beautiful
shrub of the Autumn hedgerow particularly eye-catching after overnight
frost.
Vigorous green stemmed hedgerow shrub occasionally a small tree. The
wood is very hard and was used in former times to produce wooden
skewers and clothes pegs. The small greenish flowers are followed by
eye catching scarlet 4- lobed seed capsules: Spindle or Peg wood is a
strikingly beautiful shrub in winter.
Ivy is a native evergreen plant with high wildlife value: it provides habitat
for insects and nesting sites for birds. It flowers late in the Autumn and is
the last important nectar and pollen plant available to insects. The black
fruits which ripen in spring are eaten by birds and small mammals, in
particular by pine martins. Ivy is not a parasitic plant: the small rootlets
put out by the climbing shoots help the plant to adhere to it’s support:
they have no penetrative powers. In trees, ivy clings to it’s host, it does
not feed on it, and while the tree is in good health the ivy will be a
secondary plant and although ascending the trunk and branches can do
no harm. Should the tree decline for any reason and fail to leaf the ivy will
take over as is often seen on elm that has succumbed to Dutch Elm
Disease.
Where necessary ivy should be managed. Ivy may be allowed to develop
on some trees within a hedgerow but controlled on others or allowed to
grow unchecked for many years and controlled when the growth
becomes too heavy. On sound walls ivy is harmless and in fact
beneficial, keeping them dry in winter and cool in summer. Walls that are
very weak can be pulled down if a weight of ivy has bushed out at the top
of the wall and then becomes heavy with snow or rain and susceptible to
the pull of strong winds. Clipping obviates this possibility and the life of
many walls could be prolonged by a well managed ivy cover. Ivy covered
walls should be clipped over in late Spring. If required ivy can be
removed from trees and walls by cutting the stem just above ground level
and making a second cut at least 10 cm. above the first cut. The resultant
detached section of stem should be removed.
131
Table 2 – NATIVE BROADLEAF TREES
SPECIES
Pedunculate Oak
Quercus Robur
OPTIMUM SITE
Well-aerated deep
fertile loams. Will do
well on heavier soils
Sessile Oak
Quercus Petraea
Tolerates less rich and
lighter textured soils
than Q. robur
Ash
Fraxinus Excelsior
A very exacting species
demanding good soil
conditions, preferably
sheltered, moist welldrained fertile loam
soils
Fertile deep welldrained mineral soils.
Preference for slightly
acid soils but will do
well on deep loams
over limestone
Common alder is a very
hardy accommodating
species suitable for wet
sites. Good wildlife
species. Grey and
Italian alders will
tolerate and grow well
on drier sites. Italian
alder is has a
preference for more
alkaline sites
Pioneer species suited
to very acid soils and
peats
Wild Cherry
Prunus Avium
Alder
Alnus spp
Birch
Betula spp
Willow
Salis spp
Useful species for wet
sites and streamsides
Whitebeam
Sorbus Aria
Most fertile mineral
soils
Rowan
Sorbus Aucuparia
Suitable for lowland and
hill acidic sites. Will
tolerate even alkaline
sites
CHARACTERISTICS
Slow growing, long lived
tree once the climax
vegetation over most of
the country
Oaks will not produce
good timber on
excessively drained or
sandy soils
A fast growing species
regarded as not being
suitable for large scale
planting
REMARKS
Major forest species. One
of our few native
broadleaved trees. Very
high amenity value
Major forest species.
Native to Ireland. Now
designated as Irish
national tree
Major forest species.
Native tree.
Fast growing, light
demanding, requiring
considerable space. The
only commercial
broadleaved tree with
attractive blossoms
Fast growing nitrogen
fixing tree. Suitable
broadleaf for even the
wettest sites
Major forest species.
Native tree. May suffer
from bacterial canker and
aphid attack
Fast growing, hardy
species, withstands
exposure and frost well.
Useful as a nurse crop in
mixtures but must be
kept under control or it
will smother a slower
growing tree species
Fast growing useful for
conservation and
amenity but rarely for
timber production.
Willow can be used in a
variety of ways as a
shelterbelt system
Attractive amenity tree
also suitable for shelter
Minor forest species.
Native tree. Young trees
coppice freely. May be
used as a soil improver.
Can be mixed into
shelterbelts
Hardy tree suitable for
exposed sites. Widely
used amenity tree
Minor forest species.
Common Alder is a native
tree. Coppices freely and
can be used in mixtures on
very infertile sites.
Valuable shelter tree
Minor forest species.
Native tree.
Minor forest species.
Native tree. Tolerant of
exposed and coastal sites
Minor forest species.
Native tree. Offers good
support for wildlife
Table 3 - NATIVE CONIFER
SPECIES
Scots Pine
Pinus Sylvestris
OPTIMUM SITE
Thrives on light textured
or sandy soils. Tolerant
of acid conditions. Avoid
poorly drained or
alkaline soils and
exposure to coastal
winds
CHARACTERISTICS
A strong, light
demanding slow
growing tree. Can be
used as a nurse
species. Unsuitable for
high elevations or
shelter-belting
132
REMARKS
Major forest species.
Once native but died out,
now comes from imported
sources. Regarded as the
best conifer for both
amenity and wildlife.
Attracts insects, birds and
red squirrels
Table 4 - OTHER COMMON TREE AND SHRUB SPECIES IN THE IRISH LANDSCAPE AND THEIR
CHARACTERISTICS
SPECIES
Beech
Fagus Sylvatica
Sycamore
Acer
Pseudoplatanus
Poplars
Populus
Hybrid clones
Red Oak
Quercus Rubra
Horse Chestnut
Aesculus
Hippocastanum
Walnut
Juglans spp
Lime
Tilia spp
Norway Maple
Acer Platanoides
Privet.
Lingustrum vulgare
Sea Buckthorn
Hippophae
rhamnoides
Snowberry
Symphoricarpus
rivularis.
Dogwood
Cornus sanguinea
CHARACTERISTICS/REMARKS
Well drained, loamy, fertile soils with a preference for soils derived mainly from
limestone
Tolerant of shade when young. Creates dense shade and suppresses ground
vegetation as it reaches maturity
Major forest species. Non-native tree. Benefits from a nurse on exposed sites.
Useful for under-planting. Grey squirrels can be very destructive particularly to
young beech
Prefers a moderately fertile free draining soil. Tolerant of calcareous soils
Fast growing tree that seeds easily. Withstands exposure and smoke pollution
very well
Major forest species. Non-native tree. Grey squirrels can be very harmful. A
windfirm tree. Rich in wildlife value. Valuable for shelter
Very exacting species requiring deep, well drained moderately fertile sites
Very fast growing, light demanding tree. Some species susceptible to bacterial
canker, select disease resistant clones only
Potentially major forest species. Non-native tree. Offers great prospects as Short
Rotation Forestry species for pulpwood, paper and particle board
Grows well on poor sandy soils
A fast growing tree, less suited to heavy soils
Minor forest species. Non-native tree. High amenity because of its red and russet
colours in the autumn
Thrives on all except waterlogged sites but has a preference for fertile soils
An excellent amenity tree used mainly for avenues or as a specimen tree
Minor forest species. Non-native tree
Deep, well drained, loam textured, moderately fertile soil. Suitable for well
sheltered sites with a southerly aspect
J. nigra grows somewhat faster than J. regia but timber may not be as highly
figured. Worth pruning to give a clean stem
Potentially major forest species. Non-native tree. Abnormal growths called “burr
walnut” are much sought after for veneer, an example of diseased or malformed
wood being more valuable than healthy timber
Grows on a wide range of sites, but prefers moist fertile limestone soils
Relatively fast growing. Suitable for planting as an amenity tree. Attracts swarms
of aphids in summertime causing sticky “honeydew” to cover foliage that drips off
to ground vegetation
Minor forest species. Non-native tree. Tree flowers are strongly scented and a
great attraction for many insects and a rich source of nectar for bees
Prefers a deep, moist, alkaline soil. Tolerates less fertile and drier sites than
sycamore. Avoid exposed sites and frost hollows
Fast growing tree when young. An attractive amenity tree. Greenish yellow flower
makes a beautiful sight in early spring. Brilliant red, green and gold coloured
leaves in the autumn
Minor forest species. Non-native tree. Grey squirrel can be very damaging
Medium sized bushy shrub, partially evergreen, closely related to the hedging
species, Lingustrum ovalfolium, a Japanese import. Flowers white, heavily
scented followed by small black berries.
Shrub of coastal areas. Will succeed in almost any soil. A dense bushy shrub 11.5 m high: branches armed with stout spines. Small green flowers followed on
female plants by attractive orange-yellow berries, which are normally avoided by
birds. Excellent shrub for maritime exposure.
A twiggy shrub with small pinkish flowers followed by white globular fruits.
Spreads freely by root suckers. The white globular fruits are very striking in the
Winter hedgerow.
The straight red stems of this shrub are very conspicuous in hedgerows in Winter.
It grows to six foot, has dark - green untoothed opposite arranged leaves that turn
dark red in Autumn. The hawthorn scented white flowers are followed by black
fruits. Dogwood is common in limey soils and roots readily from hardwood
cuttings stuck in Autumn.
133
Species suitable for screening farm buildings, walls etc. under Measure 8
Suitable tree species can be selected from the species listed in Table 2 above. In addition
species from the following can be selected in the mix:
Deciduous Species:
Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), Poplars (Populus Hybrid
clones), Red Oak (Quercus Rubra), Horse Chestnut (Aesculus Hippocastanum), Walnut
(Juglans spp.), Field Maple (Acer campestre), Norway Maple, (Acer platanoides). Lime
(Tilia spp.)
Conifers:
Larch (Larix spp.), Corsican Pine (Pinus nigra var. maritima), Monterey Pine (Pinus
radiata), Lawson Cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana), Western Red Cedar (Thuja
plicata), Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), Macrocarpa (Cupressus macrocarpa),
Korean Fir (Abies koreana).
Suitable self clinging plants for use around farmyards include the following.
Ivy: Hedera species. Green leafed varieties should be chosen. Ivy is a shade loving plant
should not be grown on a South facing wall.
Climbing Hydrangea: Hydrangea petiolaris. vigorous, climbs by aerial roots. decidious.
Virginia Creeper: Parthenocisus tricuspidata. vigorous, decidious.
Climbers Requiring Support
Honeysuckle: Lonicera periclymenum, needs support to climb.
Russian vine: Polygonum baldschuanicum. Very vigorus rampant, twinning plant, needs
support to climb.
To screen farm buildings in coastal exposed sites the following species are recommended:
Trees: Conifers:
Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis), Lodgepole Pine ( Pinus contorta), Corsican Pine
(Pinus nigra var. maritima), , Maritime Pine ( Pinus pinaster), Monterey Pine
(Pinus radiata )
Broadleaf trees: Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) Strawberry Tree (Arbutus
unedo), Willow (Salix species). Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Holm Oak (Quercus ilex).
White poplar ( Populus alba). Elder (Sambucus nigra).
Shrubs:
Escallonia in species and variety, Burnet Roses (Rosa pimpinellifolia), Rugosa roses,
Hypericum calycinum, Griselinia littoralis, Phormium tenax, Tamarix, Viburnum
tinus, Ulex europeaus, Eleagnus, Euonymus, Fuchsia magellinica, Senecio greyii,
Pittosporum, Hebe, Olearia species in particular O. traversii, O. albida, O. macrodanta.
Hipophae rhamnoides, Lupinus arboreus, Atriplex halimus.
134
APPENDIX – 6 Orchard Information
Traditional Irish Apple Orchard
Management Requirements
1. Orchard size must be a minimum of 0.05 hectares (500m 2), irrespective of farm size.
Orchard size should ideally be a square layout, but the minimum width must not be less
than 15 m wide in any event. The boundary of the orchard must be fenced off and made
stock proof for the duration of the contract period.
2. The ideal site to choose is a south facing gentle slope with deep soil, well drained and
open to the sun with shelter from prevailing wind and low frost occurrence.
3. Only varieties included in the Native Irish collection and which are included the
accompanying table may be planted. These varieties, and further information are
available
from
the
Irish
Seed
Savers
Association,
Scarriff,
Co.
Clare
(www.irishseedsavers.ie). If possible, varieties traditionally grown in the area should
be chosen from the list to be planted. Trees from the attached list can be purchased from
any source.
4. If an exposed site is chosen, it may require protection in the form of a high hedge or
windbreak.
5. Trees must be planted before the end of the second year of the plan.

Trees must be grown as standards or half - standards. Trees on their own roots or
grafted onto vigorous rootstocks (M.26, MM.106, MM.111) should be planted at
approximate spacing of 6 – 7 metres between trees. A minimum of twelve trees per
orchard must be planted. Trees on dwarfing rootstocks are not eligible.

At least three approved compatible varieties must be planted with no variety
comprising more than half the trees planted.

Trees must be planted during the dormant season (November to March). In order to
ensure successful planting the following must be done:
o
Cut and remove or graze all excess grass from the site
o
Dig a hole deep and wide enough to hold entire root system
o
Place sods, grass downwards, at the bottom of the hole
o
Drive a suitable stake into the hole
o
Place the tree in the hole, with the stake positioned to face the prevailing
wind
o
Add FYM (if soil is poor), and lime or rock phosphate if the soil is acidic
o
Replace soil and then trample gently. Tree must be tied securely to stake.
6. After planting care
1. The orchard may be mown or grazed with sheep (provided the trees are protected by
a tree guard). Sheep may not be allowed graze if there is no tree guard. Mowing
before July, or grazing at any time with cattle is not allowed.
135
2. A 1 metre diameter area around newly planted trees must be kept weed – free for the
duration of the contract by using polythene with fine gravel, or other commercial grass
suppressor.
3. Inorganic/organic fertiliser or lime may not be broadcast throughout the orchard.
However, well rotted farmyard manure and a small quantity of chemical fertiliser and
lime may be applied (taking care not to apply directly around the base of the tree),
each year after planting if soil is poor.
4. If damage is being caused by rabbits/hares, measures to prevent further damage
must be taken by the erection of a rabbit-proof fence.
5. Insecticides, fungicides may only be used in circumstances where the health of the
tree is threatened. Herbicides may be used to control noxious weeds by means of a
weed wiper or spot sprayer if mechanical means fail.
Table 1 - Varieties of Trees approved for use under Traditional Irish Apple Orchard
Variety
Type
Traditional Location
AppletownWonder
Eating
Limerick
April Queen
Eating
Ulster Early Variety
Ard Cairn Russet
Eating
Cork
Ballinora Pippin
Eating
Ballinora, Co. Cork
Ballyfatten
Dual
Derry
Ballyvaughan Seedling
Dual
Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare
Barnhill Pippin
Dual
Armagh and Antrim until replaced by Bramley
Seedling
Beauty of Ballintaylor
Dual
Waterford/ Tipperary
Bloody Butcher
Culinary
Kilkenny and Offaly
Brown Crofton
Eating
Sligo, Offaly, Westmeath, Roscommon,
Dublin and Wexford
Cavan Newington
Eating
Cavan
Cavan Rose
Culinary
Cavan
Cavan Strawberry/
Culinary
Cavan
Eating
Cavan
Culinary
Cavan
Strawberry Cooker
Cavan Sugercane
Cavan wine
Cider/Celadon
Cider/Culinary
Armagh
Clearheart
Dual
Kilkenny
Dick Davies
Eating
Dockney
Ecklinville Seedling
Eight Square or
Cork
Culinary/Cider
Culinary
Armagh
Antrim
Eating
Monaghan
Eating
Waterford
Kill Apple
Farrell
Frank's Seedling
George
Eating /Culinary/Juice
Dual
Offaly
Offaly, Wexford and Kilkenny
136
Gibbons Russet
Gibby's Apple
Glenstal Cooker
Eating /Cider
Eating
Cork
Armagh and Antrim.
Culinary
Limerick
Golden Royal
Eating
Monaghan
Greasy Pippin
Eating
Fermanagh and Tyrone
Green Chisel
Eating
Donegal
Honey Comb
Eating
Cavan
Honeyball
Eating
Kilkenny
Irish Molly
Eating
Cork
Irish Peach (Early Crofton)
Eating
Sligo
Irish Pitcher
Eating
Sligo, Mayo and Clare
Keegans Crab
Eating
Armagh
Kemp or May Bloom
Eating
Armagh
Kerry Pippin
Eating
Kilkenny and Antrim
Kilkenny Pearmain
Lady’s Finger of Offaly
Leitrim Red Apple
Dual
Kilkenny
Eating
Offaly, Monaghan and Dublin
Culinary
Leitrim
Lough Tree of Wexford
Eating
Wexford
Maidens Blush
Eating
Cavan
Martins Seedling
Culinary
Antrim.
Mother of Household
Culinary
Tipperary
Peach Melba
Eating
Kilkenny
Piltown Early Red
Eating
Kilkenny
Rawleys Seedling
Eating
Cork
Red Brandy
Eating
Kilkenny
Reid Seedling
Eating
Armagh
Ross Nonpareil
Eating
Wexford, Meath, Offaly Westmeath & Dublin
Sam Young ( Irish Russet)
Eating
Kilkenny, Offaly and Cavan
Scarlet Crofton
Eating
Sligo
Sheeps Snout
Eating/Culinary
Westmeath
Sovereign
Eating
Armagh
Strippy
Eating
Armagh
Summer John
Eating
Fermanagh
Thompsons Apple
Eating
Tyrone&Monaghan
Uncle Johns Cooker
White Crofton
White Moss
Culinary
Eating
Kilkenny
Sligo
Culinary/Cider
Kilkenny
Widows Friend
Eating
Armagh
Yellow Pitcher
Eating
Sligo/Donegal
There are limited amounts of the varieties listed below,
Bens Red
Eating
Kerry
Buttermilk Russet
Eating
Longford
Councillor
Custard Scarlet
Dual
Dublin
Culinary
Clare
137
Finola Lees
Cider
Tipperary
Kiltogat Blossom
Eating
Leitrim
Leixlip
Culinary
Roscommon
Dual
Res. ongoing
Siberian Russet
Valentine
Culinary/Cider
Kilkenny, Waterford.
Cabbage Stalk
Dual
Cavan
Mrs Perry
Dual
Donegal
White Russett
Foley
Richardson
Eating
Offaly
Dual
Cork
Eating
Kilkenny
Guidelines for Bird Boxes
Bird Boxes
Some birds nest inside holes in old or damaged trees. Where there are no natural holes they
may use nestboxes, if natural food is available nearby.
Designing a nestbox
Birds are different sizes, but will use 'standard' boxes, if you change the size of the entrance
hole to suit them. Blue Tits and Great Tits are most likely to use these.
With a large front opening, this box is used by birds that nest in cracks and among creepers,
such as Robins, Wrens and Spotted Flycatchers.
Making a box
Use solid wood or exterior-grade plywood, about 1.5 cm thick. Thin wood is not weather-proof
and most other materials will not last long outdoors.
Use nails, screws or weather-proof glue to join the pieces together.
Decide the size of the entrance hole.
Use a brace and bit, a holesaw or a fretsaw to make the hole.
A new box will show up to predators and vandals. Paint it with a modern preservative stain,
which is non-toxic.
Warning: Do not use creosote.
Boxes should be suitably located to attract the target species. Boxes should be a minimum of
two metres from the ground. Shade the box from the sun, especially if it is on a wall. The box
138
should face north or east in order to face the entrance away from the worst of the wind and
rain. Tilt the box slightly forward to keep water away from the hole.
In autumn when nesting has finished the old nest material should be cleared out to avoid
carry over of parasites. Further information can be found at http://www.birdwatchireland.ie/
Table 2 – Summary of counties with suggested target species
County
Barn owl
Yes
Tree
Sparrow
Yes
Stock
Dove
Yes
Kestrel, Spotted Flycatcher,
Swallow, House Sparrow Starling
Yes
Carlow
Cavan
No
No
Yes
Yes
Clare
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Cork
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Donegal
No
Yes
No
Yes
Dublin
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Galway
Galway
East
Yes
Galway
East
Yes
Galway
East
No
Yes
Kildare
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kilkenny
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Laois
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Leitrim
No
No
No
Yes
Limerick
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Longford
Yes
No
No
Yes
Louth
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Mayo
No
No
No
Yes
Meath
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Monaghan
No
No
Yes
Yes
Offaly
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Roscommon
Yes
No
No
Yes
Sligo
No
No
No
Yes
Tipperary
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Waterford
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Westmeath
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Wexford
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Wicklow
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Kerry
139
Yes
APPENDIX 7 – Commonage Issues
Calculation of De-Stocking on all commonage areas
Step 1
If stock reductions specified in Framework Plan is 10% or less, then planner discretion is
allowed when determining level of destocking required.
Step 2
Convert all grazing livestock15 on the farm in 2001 to ewe equivalents (EE) using the following
conversion factors
1 ewe
1 ewe equivalent
1 cow
6.7 ewe equivalents
1 0-1 yr old bovine
2 ewe equivalents
1 1-2 yr old bovine
4 ewe equivalents
1 >2 yr old bovine
6.7 ewe equivalents
All other grazing animals
6.7 ewe equivalents
(Alternatively convert bovine LU’s to EE: 1LU = 6.7EE or the average bovine LU on the farm
in 2001 x 6.7)
Step 3
Calculate the total forage area on the farm in 2001
Step 4
Calculate the stocking density in ewe equivalents ha-1 (EE ha-1) as follows:
Total step 2  Total step 3
Step 5
Establish the percent destocking for each commonage on the holding by reference to the
Framework Plan (FP).
Step 6
Apply these reductions to their respective commonages noting that the polluter pays principle
(PPP) also applies when both the stocking density is greater than 5 EE ha -1 and the percent
destocking recommended is greater than 20%.
Step 7
Calculate the ewe equivalents permitted.
Ewe numbers in 2001 (from step 2) minus the total ewe reductions (from step 6)
To allow for ewe losses over the winter any farmer with a commonage area greater than 200
ha can keep up to 10 % additional ewes and for smaller commonages, up to 5% additional
ewes.
15
Including any frozen quota rights in 2001.
140
Alternative Methodology – Cattle not grazing Commonage
On mixed cattle and sheep farms, if the farmer agrees that at no time will cattle be on the
commonage, the stocking density is calculated by dividing the ewe numbers in 2001
(including frozen ewe quota) by the commonage area farmed in 2001.
Following this, Steps 5 – 7 as above apply.
Example
Establish ewe equivalent as follows:
- Ewe numbers in 2001 (including any frozen quota)
- Cattle Livestock Units in 2001, 20 X 6.7 (based on CMMS
Records)
- Other Grazing Livestock, Livestock Units X 6.7
TOTAL
Ewe Equivalents
150
134
0
284
(A)
Establish Forage Area Farmed in 2001
- 15 ha of non-commonage lands
Area (ha)
15
- 35 ha owned commonage of which
13 ha in Commonage 1
12 ha in Commonage 2
10 ha in Commonage 3
- 5 ha rented/leased commonage
13
12
10
5
TOTAL
(B)
55
i.
Stocking density Ewe equivalents per ha
A from Step 1 = 284 = 5.16 ( C )
B from Step 2
55
ii.
Alternative option for stocking density (cattle not grazing commonage)
Ewe numbers from step 1
=
150
= 3.75 ( C )
Total Commonage from step 2
40
Since i is greater than ii the option of keeping the cattle on the enclosed land would seem the
best provided the enclosed land had the capacity to carry all the cattle.
The PPP will apply if (c) is greater than 5.0 and destocking percentage is 20% or greater
Establish stock reductions for each commonage
- Stock Reductions specified in Commonage 1
- Stock Reductions specified in Commonage 2
- Stock Reductions specified in Commonage 3
- Stock Reductions specified in rented commonage
Reduction
40%
15%
5%
12%
Calculate Reductions in Ewes as follows:
Reductions due to prescription in Commonage 1
Reductions due to prescription in Commonage 2
Reductions due to prescription in Commonage 3
Reductions due to prescription in rented commonage
141
Calculations
13 X 3.75 X 40%
12 X 3.75 X 15%
10 X 3.75 X 0%
5 X 3.75 X 12%
=
=
=
=
19.5
6.75
0
2.25
Total Reduction in ewes required
Total Ewe Numbers allowed
29
121
Wintering of Bovines/Horses on Commonage
Where a FP states that no outwintering is allowed, a derogation to allow the outwintering of
bovines/horses on commonage may be requested from the local Regional Inspector where

20% or less of the management unit area has a damage rating of MS/S or S*
and where

30% or less of the management unit area has a damage rating of MM
In drawing up the derogation request the planner in conjunction with the farmer

Must maximise the use of enclosed land for outwintering before any
consideration can be given to outwintering on the commonage

Must set an environmentally sustainable level for the out wintering of bovines on
commonage using the following criteria

In undamaged commonages
1LU/1.5 ha on dry grassland
1LU/5 ha on other sites (heaths, Blanket
bogs or combinations)

In damaged sites, the maximum outwintering stocking rates are as follows;
Management unit
destocking
0%
Dry Grassland
Stocking rate to apply
1LU/1.5 Ha
Other sites
Stocking rate to apply
1LU/5 Ha
0%-10%
1LU/1.65 Ha
1 LU/5.5 Ha
10.01-20%
1LU/1.8 Ha
1LU/6.0 Ha
20.01-30%
1LU/1.95 Ha
1LU/6.5 Ha
30.01-40%
1 LU/2.1 Ha
1LU/7.0 Ha
>40%
No outwintering
No outwintering

Must set out the bovine numbers based on the farmers individual share of
commonage wishing to avail of this facility

Must give due consideration to areas of the commonage highlighted as severely
overgrazed e.g. avoid supplementary feeding in such areas i.e. where subunits of
moderate to severe damage appear on the map in the shareholders owned area
of
the
CP
indicating
local
black
spots;
the
plan
must
show
that
outwintering/supplementary feeding of cattle/horses will not prevent recovery of
these areas.

In any situation the number of ewes allowed graze the commonage must reflect
the grazing potential.
Suckler quota
In situations where suckler quota was leased out during the 2001 reference year, a
derogation application must be submitted to the Regional Inspector requesting permission for
the full quota to be incorporated into the stocking density calculation.
142
LPIS areas versus Framework plan areas
Where a framework plan consists of a number of different LPIS numbers, the Gross LPIS
areas should be summed together and all the LPIS numbers listed.
LPIS areas declared must be the applicant’s gross share of the LPIS commonage area in the
relevant townland. The deductions include deductions as per the framework plan plus
deductions for any public roads, lakes and commercial forestry (applicants share only).
Increase in the Area of enclosed Privately Owned Land on holdings subject to
Commonage Framework Plans.
Additional privately owned enclosed land is defined as land acquired by way of inheritance,
letter of consent from a family member, purchased, or leased for a minimum period of five
years which is eligible for payment under REPS.
Enclosed lands taken on conacre, rental agreements, short-term leases under five years
duration, do not fall within the definition of additional land.
NB - where framework plans are being incorporated in to REPS plans, stocking density
calculations must be based on the 2001 Area Aid and stock numbers (2001 ewe quota and
CMMS figures for bovines). Therefore if a farmers stocking density is higher now than in 2001
due to higher stock numbers s/he must reduce stock numbers back to 2001 levels in addition
to reducing ewe numbers according to the framework plan figures.
Where a farmer acquires additional private land additional stock may be allowed on the
following basis:
Sheep Only Farmers
Allocation per additional hectare may not exceed stocking density per hectare on the original
holding before destocking.
Example: An existing holding of 20ha private land and 20ha commonage with a quota of 80
ewes has a stocking density of 2 ewes/ha (based on 2001 details). For every additional
hectare of privately owned land acquired an additional 2 ewe equivalents may be permitted.
Mixed Sheep and Cattle Farmers
Where both cattle and sheep graze the entire forage area of the farm the additional private
land area may be stocked to the same stocking density as the original holding.
Example: An existing holding of 20ha private land and 20ha commonage with 10 bovine
livestock units (67 ewe equivalents) and 13 ewes has a stocking density of 2 ewe
equivalents/ha (based on 2001 details). For every additional hectare of privately owned land
acquired an additional 2 ewe equivalents may be permitted.
143
Where an undertaking is given in writing that cattle will never be grazed on the commonage
land the additional private land may be stocked with cattle up to the sustainable carrying
capacity of the land i.e up to the organic nitrogen limit for REPS purposes. Where this option
is availed of an increase in ewe numbers is not permitted.
In all cases where additional ewe numbers are planned for, the planner must ensure in
preparing the REPS plan that the grazing pressure on the commonage area of the holding is
not increased.
Increase in the Area of commonage land/grazing rights on holdings subject to
Commonage Framework Plans.
Additional commonage shares or grazing rights acquired which are eligible for REPS payment
may be considered for grazing potential on the farm. Each such case will be examined by the
Department of Agriculture and Food on an individual basis and the recommendations of the
relevant commonage framework plans will be taken into consideration. Additional
commonage shares or grazing rights acquired (which are eligible for REPS payment) with
evidence of historical quota rights must be incorporated in to the 2001 stocking density
calculations.
Example: Original holding of 20ha private land and 20ha commonage with a quota of 80
ewes has a stocking density of 2 ewes/ha (based on 2001 details). Commonage land of 10
ha inherited along with 30 ewe quota rights. Therefore new stocking density is calculated as
follows;
Ewe quota
80
+
30
=
110
Land area
40
+
10
=
50
=
2.2 ewes/ha
Stocking density is 110/50
Any destocking necessary is now based on this stocking density
Farmers reverting to a sheep only enterprise from a mixed stocking enterprise
Where a farmer chooses not to keep cattle for the duration of the REPS plan, stocking density
for the whole farm must be recalculated based on ewe quota and Area Aid details for 2001.
Ewe numbers cannot be increased to offset any reduction in cattle numbers.
Example: An existing holding of 20ha private land and 20ha commonage with 29.86 bovine
livestock units (200 ewe equivalents) and 200 ewes has a stocking density of 10 ewe
equivalents/ha (as declared in 2001).
The recommended destocking figure for the
commonage is 50%. Based on these figures the farmer would have to destock as follows:
20 x5 x50% =
20 x 5
=
50 ewes
100 ewes
150 ewes
If this farmer wishes to revert to a sheep only enterprise and not keep cattle, the stocking
density is as follows;
200 ewes  40 ha = 5 ewes/hectare.
Therefore, destocking is as follows:
20 x 5 x 50% = 50 ewes
144
Farms with Commonage but no historic levels of stock
As the primary objective when preparing a REPS plan for farms encompassing commonage
land is to allow for recovery of the vegetation in these areas, it is critical that when livestock
grazing is planned; it is at sustainable levels. Guidance for sustainable grazing in commonage
areas is provided below.
For undamaged commonage areas, appropriate maximum ewe equivalents per hectare are
suggested:

UNDAMAGED BLANKET BOGS: should
never exceed 1 ewe/ha/annum and generally should
not exceed 0.5ewes/ha/annum in wetter areas.

UNDAMAGED WET HEATH AND DRY HEATHS: should
never exceed 1.5 ewes/ha/annum and
may need to be considerably less e.g. depending on heather cover and form.

UNDAMAGED GRASSLANDS: should
never exceed 5ewes/ha/annum in prime quality
Agrostis/Festuca swards.
The following parameters must apply when a planner is preparing a REPS plan in these
sites:

If the site is damaged, grazing levels prescribed by the planner must be at a level
sufficient for the vegetation to recover. In any situation, the planner must outline in
the REPS plan,
o
The maximum number of sheep (or cattle) that may be kept on the farm as a
whole
o
The maximum number of sheep (or cattle) that may be grazed on the
commonage and the specific periods of grazing
o

How the stock will be wintered.
The stock carrying capacity should only relate to the owned area of commonage and
not the Commonage Plan area. The carrying capacity of this owned area of
commonage must reflect the habitat(s) type(s) present. In most cases one will
encounter mixtures of the above habitat types in the Commonage Plan and the
planned carrying capacity must reflect the proportion of the various habitats in the
owned area of the Commonage.

Stocking levels apply to Scottish Blackface sheep or similar medium sized sheep
breeds. Stocking levels for cattle or other stock should be at livestock unit applicable
rates taking account of Department of Agriculture and Food conversion rates for the
various stock types.
The stocking levels recommended in this document are
maximum sustainable rates for year round grazing. If shorter periods of grazing are
used the number of animals may be increased, though not necessarily pro rata.

At the review of the REPS plan, the conservation status of the areas will be reviewed.
A change in the stocking levels (increase or decrease) may be appropriate depending
on progress.
145
APPENDIX – 8 The Burren and Other Areas
Conditions for the Conservation of the Burren to be applied under the Rural
Environment Protection Scheme (REPS)
Description
The Burren areas to which these conditions apply are all designated target lands within the
East Burren Complex, Black Head - Poulsallagh Complex, Moneen Mountain and the Galway
Bay Complex SACs, and other SPAs and NHAs in the Burren. These target lands contain
extensive areas of limestone pavement, limestone grassland, limestone heath, calcareous
fen, springs, turloughs, scrub and woodland. Areas of improved agricultural grassland within
these complexes are treated separately (see 1 below).
Within these areas, a long history of low nutrient input, extensive, mainly winter – based,
grazing regimes has ensured the survival of a rich and unique biodiversity, and has restricted
the level at which scrub has encroached. REPS Measures must work to support a
continuation of these important farming traditions.
General Provisions
The conditions applicable to Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites will apply here. No
environmentally damaging activity is permitted without prior approval of NPWS – see list of
Restricted and Prohibited Activities below. In addition, a number of specific conditions will
apply for the Burren.
Please note that the following conditions may be superseded by specific recommendations for
individual farms. Where the situation on farm warrants an exception to the general rules, the
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the Department of Agriculture and Food
should be contacted.
Grazing Regime
A minimum annual stocking rate of 0.15 LU/ha of Utilizable Agricultural Area (UAA) will apply.
Rates below this level will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances.
Sustainable optimum stocking levels will be set down by the REPS planner in the REPS plan
following careful assessment of the environmental conservation needs of the farm. In
particular, stocking levels should be set to avoid the dual threats of undergrazing and
overgrazing. Where the stock level set by the planner requires a reduction, this must be
achieved within 12 months of the start of the plan. Where the stock level is to increase, this
can be spread over the period of the plan, as specified by the planner.
146
Grazing will be permitted on all areas from September to April inclusive, except on wetlands
susceptible to poaching. In some cases, light summer grazing may also be permitted from
mid-July onwards where there is a justifiable need based on a condition assessment. Late
summer grazing will be at a reduced stocking level to be laid down by the REPS planner,
based on an assessment of the productivity, management history and environmental
conservation needs of the management units in question.
Livestock owned by others may be grazed on REPS farms for four consecutive months
between January and April inclusive where there is a demonstrable environmental
conservation need. This will be subject to non-mixing of herds, and the farmer who owns the
land meeting minimum stocking requirements. No additional feeding of silage to imported
stock will be permitted.
All stocking rates and grazing periods will be subject to ongoing monitoring and review.
Feeding Regime
Supplementary feeding on Burren areas should be minimal. Sustainable optimum feeding
levels will be set down by the REPS planner in the REPS plan following careful assessment
of the agricultural and environmental needs of the farm. The amount of feed should not
exceed 1.25 tons of silage (or the equivalent in other feed) per livestock unit or 50% of the
feed requirement of the animal for the feeding period. In normal years, supplementary feeding
of livestock will be confined to a period between January 15th and April 12th.
In unusually severe winters, feeding can be permitted outside of this period with the prior
agreement of the Department of Agriculture and Food after consultation with the National
Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). All supplementary feed must be distributed at "feeding
points" described and specified in the farm plan. Feeding areas must not be located on bare
pavement, but preferably on areas of deeper soil which already have low plant species
diversity. Where severe poaching is a risk, feeders should be rotated within designated
feeding areas. Locations should be chosen to reduce the possibility of ground water pollution
or changes in the flora, and also to minimise visual impact. Any accumulation of manure at
feeding points must be removed at the end of the feeding season.
Farm Improvement works
No farm improvement works such as land reclamation, infilling or rock removal, trackway
construction, building or handling facility construction are permitted without the prior approval
of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The cutting of scrub with chain saw or other brush
cutting tools is permitted, but treating cut stumps with herbicide will require permission.
147
Use of fertilizer or herbicide
Neither organic nor inorganic fertilisers may be applied. Spraying or broadcast application of
herbicides can only be carried out with prior approval of the NPWS. Spot application and
wipe-on treatments of weeds listed in the Noxious Weed Act 1936 (as amended) can be
undertaken.
Groundwater pollution
The greatest care should be taken on the Burren to observe the national regulations on
agricultural pollution.
The hydrology of the Burren is such that pollutants run into the
groundwater and into local lakes and other water bodies very quickly. Farmyard manure must
not be stored in fields for composting. Planners should identify suitable feed storage areas so
that the groundwater is protected.
(1) Areas of Improved Agricultural Grassland in the Burren which are designated as
SAC/SPA/NHA
Description
These are areas of intensively managed or highly modified agricultural grassland that have
been reseeded and/or regularly fertilised, and are now heavily grazed and/or used for silage
or hay making. They are usually very species poor, often dominated by Rye grasses, and are
very productive agriculturally. For more details see Fossitt (2000), Category GA1.
General Provisions
Relatively intensive farming practices in these areas require careful management to avoid
nutrient pollution of the internationally important wetlands of the region. It is particularly
important that nitrate and phosphate leaching from these areas to the wetlands be kept to an
absolute minimum. REPS plans must be drawn up to meet these requirements. They must
also meet the following specific requirements:
Fertiliser, Slurry and Farmyard Manure Applications
Where fertilisers are being applied, the initial soil sampling areas should be relatively
intensive with at least one sample per 2-4 ha.
The phosphorus fertilisation rates must not exceed the amount permitted for Index 3 soils.
Where they are already above that level no chemical phosphates can be applied.
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Nitrogen and Potassium should only be applied at rates that can be effectively used in
conjunction with the Phosphorus levels prevailing in the soil.
Slurry production on Burren farms should be minimised by proper use of outwintering areas.
Slurry and waste spreading must not exceed 25 cubic metres per hectare per application and
must not occur within 50m of lakes or winter flooded areas. It should be spread only after
grass growth has started. All slurry produced on the farm must be spread by August 31st.
Where possible, farmyard manure should be recycled to the area from which hay or silage
was obtained. It must not be stored in fields for composting and any accumulation of such
manure at feeding points must be removed at the end of the feeding season. No agreements
should be made to landspread manure produced on other farms onto Natura
2000/NHA/Commonage land.
Extreme care should be taken to ensure that neither fertilizer nor silage effluent enters
streams and watercourses, including areas subject to flooding such as turloughs.
Training and Resources
Additional training and resource material will be made available to REPS planners in the Burren,
in particular for Habitat assessment work. These will include Burren-specific templates to be
used in assessing the habitat type, condition and management needs of each management unit
in question, and training in the use of these templates.
Monitoring the Effects of REPS in the Burren
Arising from the results of research undertaken through the BurrenLIFE Project, it may be
necessary to review and modify the "Conditions for the Conservation of the Burren" to be
applied under REPS.
Restricted and Prohibited Activities on designated areas of the Burren (prior notification to
NPWS will be required)

Reclamation, land drainage, ploughing, cultivation or reseeding.

Infilling or rock removal.

Planting of trees or other species.

Dumping, burning or storing of any materials.

Alteration of the banks, bed or flow of watercourses.

Operation of recreation facilities (e.g. pony trekking).

New tracks or pathways.
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Assessment of Management Units within the Burren
How a management unit within the Burren is farmed will have a critical impact on the
biodiversity value of the unit. Too little grazing and biodiversity will decrease as grasses such
as the blue moor grass, purple moor grass or red fescue (and their litter) become dominant,
smothering smaller herb species and eventually leading to possible scrub encroachment.
Overuse of a site, which often involves large amounts of imported feed, will also reduce the
biodiversity value of a site through poaching, nutrient enrichment and the introduction of weed
species. Therefore, determining the best grazing and feeding regime for a site is critical.
For the purposes of assigning an appropriate grazing and feeding regime to a particular
management unit, the following key factors will need to be taken into account:
1. The traditional and current management regime of the management unit
2. The inherent/natural productivity of the management unit
3. The conservation status of the management unit
A simple assessment of the site will be required to determine:

The traditional and current management regime practiced (determined in
consultation with farmer)
Year-round grazing – an enriched flora with buttercups, thistles and meadow-type grasses
Winter grazing – a typical Burren flora with blue moor grass and fescue grasses common
Wintered with light summer grazing - a typical Burren flora but with significantly increased
levels of meadow-type grasses

The inherent/natural productivity of the site
Higher productivity – mainly deeper soils, meadow-type vegetation (Winter CC > 0.5 LU/ha)
Lower productivity – mainly very thin soils, typical Burren flora (Winter CC < 0.2 LU/ha)
Intermediate productivity – between the above, mixed species (Winter CC 0.2 – 0.5 LU/ha)

The conservation status of the site
Undergrazed - High litter (dead vegetation) levels, encroaching scrub, low dunging levels etc
Overgrazed - Bare and disturbed ground, poached areas common, weedy vegetation etc
Well grazed - Low litter levels, stabilised scrub levels, minimal poaching etc
A simple assessment template will be provided for Planners to conduct site assessments in
order to determine what categories a management unit will fall into. This will allow the planner to
recommend changes to existing stocking rates, grazing periods and feeding regimes for each
management unit.
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Conditions For The Conservation Of Blanket Bogs, Heaths And Upland Grasslands
Under The Rural Environment Protection Scheme
General Provisions
These conditions for specific habitat types are supplementary to the agri-environmental plan
requirements of the general REPS programmes. The conditions for the target areas under
Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply. Planners may seek a derogation from the
Regional Inspector to vary these conditions in individual cases. All REPS plans in respect of
NHAs must be approved and signed by the Planning Agency’s environmentalist/ecologist.
Detailed Conditions
The conditions applicable to Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply; the guidelines set
out below are complementary to these conditions.
Stocking Density
In all cases an environmentally sustainable plan must be prepared and adhered to for the
total area of the farm. Sustainable optimum stocking rates must be set down by the REPS
planner following careful assessment of the environmental conservation needs of the lands.
Where the stocking levels set down by the planner require a reduction in stock this must be
achieved within one year of the commencement of the plan.
There can be no increase in stocking levels, no introduction of stock to new areas and no
changes in stock type during the period of the REPS plan without the prior approval of the
Department of Agriculture and Food.
The maximum number of sheep that may be kept on the farm as a whole must be set down in
the REPS plan. The conditions set out for Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage areas must be
followed. The following parameters apply:

Where there is no damage the current stocking levels are acceptable.

If the level of damage is moderate a stocking reduction must be prescribed by the
planner at a level related to the damage and sufficient for the vegetation to recover.

If the level of damage is severe, a stocking reduction of between 70% and 100% of
ewe numbers on the damaged area must be prescribed for a specified period.

At the review of the REPS plan, the conservation status of the areas will be reviewed.
A change in the stocking levels (increase or decrease) may be appropriate depending
on progress.
Stocking levels apply to Scottish Blackface sheep or similar medium sized sheep breeds.
Stocking levels for cattle or other stock should be at livestock unit applicable rates taking
account of Department of Agriculture and Food conversion rates for the various stock types.
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The stocking levels recommended in this document are maximum sustainable rates for year
round grazing.
If shorter periods of grazing are used the number of animals may be
increased, though not necessarily pro rata.
Supplementary Feeding
Supplementary feeding is permitted only on areas where it is currently practised. Locations of
feeding points must be specified. To reduce heavy grazing, trampling, poaching and erosion
problems, “feeding points” should be moved every 3 weeks and sited on ground with least
habitat and wildlife value, preferably on grassland well away from stands of heather. Feeding
on steep slopes and on peaty soils should be avoided where possible. The total amount of
feed used must not be increased.
Use Of Fertilisers And Herbicides
Neither organic nor inorganic fertilisers or lime can be applied on bogs, heaths or upland
grasslands where they have not been used before. Fertilisers must not be used as a means
of regenerating eroded areas. In the case of upland grasslands fertilisers can only be applied
on the basis of the results of a soil test. Where fertilisers are being applied, the initial soil
sampling should be relatively intensive with at least one sample per 2-4 ha. Target soil
phosphate levels must not exceed the Index 2 level set out in this specification
Spraying or broadcast application of herbicides must be avoided. Spot application and wipeon treatments to eradicate docks, thistles, ragwort and similar noxious weeds may be used.
Rhododendron may be removed by cutting and herbicide treatment. Bracken control may be
by rolling, cutting and/or by controlled cattle trampling in early summer. In exceptional
circumstances control of bracken by herbicides may be permitted.
Water Pollution
The greatest care should be taken to observe the statutory requirements on water pollution.
The hydrology of bogland areas is characterised by extremely nutrient poor surface waters
which contain flora and fauna adapted to these conditions. These species would be adversely
affected by nutrient enrichment. New sheep dip sites must be listed and located away from
streams and flushes to reduce the possibility of water pollution and damage to flora and
fauna.
Restricted And Prohibited Practices
The following practices must not be carried out on Blanket Bogs, Heaths or Upland
Grasslands:

The areas must not be drained, ploughed, cultivated or reseeded.

There must be no infilling or rock removal.

Turf cutting on unexploited bogs is not permitted. Turf cutting for domestic use is
permitted on existing banks.

Planting of trees or other crops is not permitted.

No new tracks or paths can be created.

Burning is only allowed as a planned management practice.
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
Gorse may be controlled by cutting, spot spraying or exceptionally by burning outside
of the bird nesting season (March 1st. to August 31st).
Complementary Action
Measures To Prevent Damage By Non REPS Participants
The Department should take measures to ensure that the environmental benefits achieved in
degraded areas under REPS are not negated or diminished by non-participants in the
Scheme.
Evaluation and Monitoring
Monitoring and evaluating the effects of REPS on blanket bogs, heaths and upland and
unimproved grassland is essential in determining the environmental impact of REPS on these
habitats so that appropriate modifications can be identified and effected where necessary.
The effect of the grazing regime on the vegetation and wildlife should be monitored to assess
recovery as well as any damage being caused by animals. To this end the Department of
Agriculture and Food and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of
Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in consultation with Teagasc and private
planners, will monitor the environmental impact of REPS on these habitats on an ongoing
basis. Progress in this regard will be reported to the Consultative Committee on REPS.
Farmer Education / Advice
A REPS promotional campaign will be undertaken as soon as is practicable to inform farmers
of the conservation needs of these areas and of the provisions of REPS. This campaign will
be undertaken by the Department of Agriculture and Food. Farming and environmental
organisations will also be invited to assist in this promotional campaign.
Seminars for Planners
Seminars for REPS Planners shall be held to advise on the interpretation of these conditions
at ground level.
Demonstration Farms
A number of REPS participant demonstration farms will be set up in selected areas.
Research work could also be carried out at these farms to assess the ability / rate of recovery
of an area under different stocking conditions.
Quota Rights
Any REPS participant farmer is guaranteed that their quota rights are protected and in the
event of a possibility of increasing numbers arising such farmers would be allowed to do so,
subject to the environmental condition of the participant farm.
Scheme Extension
The application of REPS in the target areas will apply for periods of five years renewable for
15 years.
Local Co-ordination
The Department of Agriculture and Food will encourage co-ordination, at local level, of efforts
to rejuvenate damaged areas.
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Farming Conditions for Sand Dune and Machair Areas
General Provisions
The conditions set out in this document are supplementary to the farming conditions for the
general REP Scheme for REPS. The conditions for the target areas under
Natura /NHA/Commonage sites apply. Planners may seek derogation from the Regional
Inspector to vary these conditions in individual cases. All REPS plans in respect of NHAs
must be approved and signed by the Planning Agency’s environmentalist/ecologist.
Detailed Conditions, Sand Dunes and Machairs
The conditions applicable to Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply; the guidelines set
out below are complementary to these conditions.
Description
Sand Dunes and Machairs are coastal habitats consisting of hills and hollows in which unique
communities of plants and animals are found in response to the very demanding nature of the
dry, windy and salty environment.
Machairs are flat, level plains over lime - rich sands which have evolved in response to a
unique interaction between wind, high rainfall and historical land use. They are found only in
western Ireland and Scotland.
Farming Conditions Recommended For These Areas
The primary recommendation is to avoid farming practices that cause environmental damage
and all the following recommendations are designed to meet that objective. If a practice is
environmentally damaging it must be stopped or modified, but the following are general
guidelines and may be superseded by specific recommendations for individual farms. The
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Environment, Heritage and
Local Government or the local Agriculture, Environment and Structures (AES) Division office
of the Department of Agriculture and Food should be contacted if the situation on-farm
warrants an exception to the general rules.
Grazing Regime
The conditions for Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage areas apply. It should be noted that on
sand dunes and machairs, the objective is to maintain extensive agricultural practices, and to
prevent a further increase in stock numbers. Cattle stock must be kept at the level the land
can support - see also the section on Supplementary Feeding.
Cattle grazing should continue in line with traditional practices. The land should normally be
grazed only in winter. However, in areas where Summer grazing has traditionally (i.e. over
the previous 10 years) been practised, this can continue, provided, of course, that stock levels
at all times do not exceed what the land can bear on a sustainable basis. Grazing on young
and fore-dune areas should be avoided.
Where conditions warrant, grazing levels must not exceed 1 Livestock Unit (LU) per hectare
on a year round average and must never exceed 2 LU at any one time. This change would
154
enable 2 LUs to be overwintered on the sand dune/machair provided it is deemed to be
sustainable by the planner.
The introduction of sheep into areas where they have not been traditionally grazed should be
avoided, but areas which have kept sheep traditionally can retain them, though perhaps at a
lower level.
Sustainable Stocking Levels
In general the provisions of Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply. Stocking levels for
each farm should be set by the REPS planner or the Department of Environment, Heritage
and Local Government (NPWS) planner in the farm plan. The levels should be set below the
level which causes eutrophication, overgrazing, or erosion, but still high enough to control the
encroachment of coarse vegetation and scrub. Where the stock level set by the planner
requires a reduction, this must be achieved within 12 months of the start of the plan. Where
the stock level is to increase, this can be spread over the period of the plan, as specified by
the planner. The same level will apply for a REPS plan as for an NPWS plan.
The NPWS will prepare a conservation plan for each area to cover all aspects of the SAC in
question, including farming. In so far as the farming aspects are concerned, the plan will be
prepared in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Food in accordance with the
terms of these conditions. Where an area conservation plan has been prepared for the SAC
in question, this should be used to assist in determining where damage has occurred or is
occurring, where damage is moderate, and where damage has not occurred. Official
conservation plans, when available, can be obtained from the local office of the NPWS.
Supplementary Feeding
The introduction of supplementary feeding can bring additional nutrients into sand dune and
machair areas, and thus bring about a very fundamental change in the vegetation of these
areas.
The use of silage and other feed can facilitate excessive stocking levels and may lead to
pollution of groundwater. Consequently, the use of any supplementary feeds in areas where
it has not been customary over the last ten years may be allowed only in consultation with the
Department of Agriculture and Food and the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local
Government. Round-baled silage can be stored in these areas. Loose silage can only be
stored where an approved effluent collection system is in place, and the effluent is removed
from the machair/sand dune.
No supplementary feeding can take place on young and fore-dune areas.
In machair and grey dune areas where supplementary feed has been used over the last 10
years it may be continued, provided that:

The number of LUs fed does not increase;

The species of stock fed does not change;

The total amount of feed equivalent does not increase;

The amount of feed does not exceed 3.5 tonnes of silage or 0.75 tonnes of hay per
LU;
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
No meals and concentrates are fed.
However, in exceptional circumstances, such as in unusually severe weather conditions (i.e.,
when there are heavy snowfalls or floods), and with the agreement of the Department of Arts,
Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, feeding will be permitted. Weanling cattle may be fed
small quantities of concentrates.
Cultivation, Reseeding And Pesticides
Ploughing, harrowing or any other form of cultivation must be avoided since this will
destabilise the dune structure. Small traditional tillage plots on machairs may be retained.
The bringing in of any seeds to these areas will disturb the vegetative balance on which the
dune depends and must be avoided. The feeding of hay should only be from round feeders.
The fixed dune parts of sand dunes are essentially areas with low levels of plant nutrients in
the soil and this has contributed to the development of their distinctive flora. These are also
areas most used for grazing. However, the spreading of organic (slurry, FYM), or inorganic
fertilisers must not take place as the flora in these areas would be damaged.
On machairs, where fertiliser has not been applied in the past, none can be applied now.
However, where low levels of phosphorus have traditionally been applied on machairs, this
may continue, provided that the soil Phosphorus levels do not increase above their present
levels or in any event do not exceed Soil Index 2.
Pesticides And Herbicides
All spraying or broadcast application of herbicides must be avoided, but spot application and
wipe on treatment to eradicate docks, thistles and similar noxious weeds can be used.
Animal Treatments
Worm doses may be used normally, but animals which have been given pesticides the
residues of which persist in the dung must be kept off the dune for at least a week after
treatment.
Dumping And Infilling
The dumping of domestic or industrial refuse, farm wastes, rubble, rock, or any similar
materials which could disturb the natural environment by bringing in unsuitable nutrients or
unsuitable soils and seeds must be avoided.
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Farming Conditions For The Conservation of Corncrake Habitats
Shannon Callows
NOTE: These Farming conditions are supplementary conditions and will apply to areas where
corncrake habitat is found on the lands.
1. The total area on the designated part of the farm, which is managed for meadow, shall
not decrease during the period of the plan nor shall the area of meadow be less than the
average of the preceding 5 years.
2. Grazing shall not be permitted on the designated area after 15th March.
3. The meadow shall not be cut or topped before the 10th August. Other field operations
requiring the use of tractor machinery (fertilising, rolling, spraying, etc.) are not permitted
until the date of mowing. Field operations that do not require the use of tractor machinery
(such as hand spraying) are permitted.
4. The cutting dates in the 5-year farm plan shall be twice on the 10th August, twice on 1st
September and once on the 15th September. These dates will be allocated at the start of
the plan through consultation with the NPWS or their agents.
5. A top up scheme will be available at the discretion of the NPWS, which will allow for
delaying mowing up to 15thSeptember.
6. The meadows should be mown annually except when floods make this impossible.
7. Meadows must be cut by the “centre out” method (Figure 2.). Details are available from
BWI/ NPWS. Mower speed should be kept at a low enough speed (e.g. 4mph.) to allow
corncrakes to move away.
8. A 2.5 metre margin (Figure 1) must be left on both side of the meadow during cutting to
allow corncrakes to escape when mowing takes place. These margins can be left uncut
until the following year if wished but must be cut in the second year. On very narrow plots
the width can be modified in consultation with the NPWS or their agents.
9.
Existing areas of tall early-growing vegetation (e.g. nettles, reed, cow parsley, iris but not
trees or shrubs) should be managed to provide cover every year.
10. The NPWS or their agents must be notified at least 24 hours before the commencement
of cutting.
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Managing Corncrake Habitat Areas
The corncrake habitat area must be managed as follows:
Fig 1: On the callows, a margin should be left on both sides
CO
mowing
Leave 2 margins
Fig 2 - Diagram of Centre Out Mowing
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Farming Conditions for the Conservation of River SAC
Fertiliser in River SACs:
In River SACs, no chemical fertiliser should be applied within 1.5 m of any watercourse.
In River SACs, the recommended buffer strip when spreading organic manures is up to 10
m from streams and drains and up to 20 m from main river channels. Where SAC boundaries
have been reduced to 2.5 m, the relevant buffer is that under REPS/Cross Compliance: 5 m
for a surface watercourse (3 m for open drains and narrow land parcels less than 50 m in
width and less than 1 ha).
Notifiable Actions
Current farming activities can continue without notification unless they involve any of the
following, which, as they may impact upon habitats, are notifiable actions (that is actions
which would require consultation and consent in advance):

Reclamation, infilling or drainage (other than cleaning of drains)* within 5 m of the
riverbank.

Removal of trees; reseeding of lands where this has not been practiced for 10 years or
more; or afforestation.

Ploughing or use of any pesticides where this has not been practiced for 10 years or
more.

Any use of pesticides (herbicide or insecticide) within 5 m of the riverbank.

Intensification of current farming activity.

Alteration of the banks, channel, bed or flow of the river.
*Cleaning of existing drains within SACs is not a notifiable action.
Ploughing and REPS
In REPS, a minimum uncultivated margin from watercourses of 3 m must be maintained. This
will extend to 5 metres where the SAC boundary is greater 2.5 metres.
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APPENDIX - 9
Designated Sites Quadrat Assessment Form to be used where no NPWS specified
farming conditions are available
Survey date_________ Grid reference____________ Surveyor:
___
Habitat Type:
Estimate % groundcover of each species using the scale DAFOR
D – Dominant >50%; A – Abundant 26-50%; F – Frequent 6-25%; O – Occasional 1-<5%;
R – Rare < 1%
Species present in 10  10 quadrat.
Vegetation Cover
%
Bare soil
%
Rock
% Litter
%
Grass/sedge Cover
%
Herb(include
%
Moss Cover
%
rushes) Cover
Main sward height:
cm
Sward structure: Uniform/
Grass height:
cm
Herb height:
Clumpy/
Variable/
cm
√
Presence of weed species
Very Obvious, easy to find
Weed species present but not widespread
Very limited, patchy, negligible
Amount of bare soil
Frequent 5 – 10 %
Occasional 1 – 5 %
Insignificant < 1%
Poaching as a result of trampling
Severe (>50% of area covered by hoof prints)
by large herbivores (% of surface
Moderate (5-<50% of area covered by hoof prints)
churned and deeply marked by
Inconspicuous (<5% of area covered by hoof
hoof prints)
prints)
Amount of domestic herbivore
Very Conspicuous (>20/100m 2)
dung present (number of groups of
Not very conspicuous but easy to find (10-
dung pellets or dung pats)
20/100m2)
Rare and difficult to find or absent (<10/100m 2)
Amount of rabbit, feral herbivore
Very obvious, easy to find (>10/100m 2)
dung present (number of groups of
Some present but not widespread (5-10/100m2)
dung pellets or dung pats)
Very limited, patchy, negligible (<5/100m 2)
Signs of scrub/ bracken expansion;
Little or no evidence of encroachment of
scrub/bracken
Some evidence of scrub/bracken encroachment
Using the above indicators (Quadrat assessment) in conjunction with photographs the planner
and environmentalist/ecologist establishes appropriate management practices for the site.
160
APPENDIX – 10 Milk Production Partnerships
1. Only MPP, where additional land is brought to the partnership (eg two individual farm
units that amalgamate) are eligible to participate in REPS.

Each partner must bring a minimum of 3 ha owned/leased land to the MPP/REPS
plan.

Each partner must meet the eligibility criteria in section 6 in the REPS 4 Terms
and Conditions.
2. One REPS plan for all lands owned /leased /rented and farmed by all the partners in
the MPP.
3. Each partner must declare in the MPP REPS plan all lands farmed by him or her. All
lands farmed must be farmed to the terms and conditions of REPS.
4. All lands leased/rented out from the MPP must be declared in the REPS plan.
5. Payment will only be made on owned/leased (excl. leased commonage) land that is
included in the MPP.
6. REPS payment is paid directly to the partnership.
7. Each member of the partnership must sign all documentation submitted to the Local
AES office.
8. A MPP must run for 5 years from the commencement date of the REPS contract
9. Any change to the lands farmed or MPP agreement must be notified to the Local AES
Division office within 6 weeks.
10. A certified copy of the valid MPP agreement must be available for inspection on
request.
11. MPP should complete Record Sheets as required under Measure 11 for all lands
farmed and all enterprises carried out by the partners in the MPP.
12. All farm buildings must be maintained in accordance with Measures 1 and 8 and all
lands owned /leased /rented and farmed by the partnership must be maintained in
good agricultural and environmental condition.
161
13. All enterprises carried out by partners to be declared and included in REPS Plan e.g.
a Pig/Poultry unit not declared in MPP or Area Aid.
14. MPP must meet minimum criteria for Measures 4 and 5 on the basis of the contract
area or 80 hectares whichever is the lesser.
15. Biodiversity Options must be undertake on the basis of 40 hectares.
16. Payment on land in MMP will be as follows
0 – 40 hectares
€234/ha
41 – 80 hectares
€205/ha
81 - 110 hectares
€82/ha
> 111 hectares
€10/ha
17. Maximum Area for payment under Supplementary Measures remain the same as
listed under REPS 4 Terms and Conditions.
18. Penalties and clawback are applied directly to the partnership payment. It is then up
to the partnership as to how they divide the REPS penalty.

Clawback is calculated on the basis of €205/hectare up to 80 hectares disposed
of/ transferred.
19. Existing REPS participants that join a MPP may see out their existing contract without
renewal. They may not start a new REPS 4 contract.
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163