Reclamation

Cross-compliance rules now provide protection to all semi-natural areas such as scrub, woodland, moorland, wetlands, species rich grasslands and ponds, together with archaeological features, shelterbelts and trees protected under the Tree Preservation Order, which are farmed by recipients of the Single Farm Payment. Under cross-compliance, these habitats must be retained and damage or reclamation is prohibited.

Cross-compliance reinforces the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Uncultivated Land/Semi-Natural Areas Regulations, which have applied to all farmers in Northern Ireland since 2002. This means that anyone wishing to carry out intensive agricultural activity or a project such as drainage, cultivation and reseeding on uncultivated land and/or a semi-natural habitat, must apply to DARD Environmental Policy Branch 028 9052 4130 for consent prior to commencing work.

Uncultivated land is land with less than 25 percent ryegrass and/or other sown grass species and white clover. In deciding whether land is 'uncultivated' the past agricultural practices on the land will also be taken into consideration. For example, land with less than 25 percent ryegrass, but which has been recently reseeded and is receiving regular fertiliser applications is not considered as uncultivated land. Semi-natural habitats are scrub, woodland, moorland, wetlands, species rich grasslands and coastal habitats.

Farmers and landowners should note that anyone wishing to infill land with soil, hard core or other waste material from outside their farm must apply to the Department of Environment, Special Studies Unit Planning Service on 028 9041 6892 and obtain the necessary consents before commencing this activity.

For guidance on any other matters relating to cross-compliance, please contact Countryside Management staff at your local DARD Office.

Anyone wishing to carry out reclamation should check if they are complying with DARD Environmental Impact Regulations.