The Standard Cost is an average of the estimated costs of labour, plants, machinery and materials to do the work or create the item to the minimum specification provided in this document. The standard costs are fixed and not subject to negotiation. Payments may be based on a percentage of Standard Costs of agreed capital item.
Each specification provides the minimum standard of work required for the standard cost rate. All applicants will be required to carry out work to at least the specification given. In addition, all works must be carried out to comply with any relevant British Standard. Capital investments must be maintained in an appropriate functional state for at least the term of the contract.
Any timber used in the provision of a capital item must be sourced from a sustainably managed forest.
For fencing related capital items, the use of high quality second-hand materials such as telegraph poles or railway sleepers for straining and turning posts is acceptable. All other fencing materials must be new. All fencing woodwork must be treated.
Variations to the specifications may be allowed where the appropriate rural Development Contract Measure's administrative competent authority considers that the specification meets the minimum requirements.
The list of capital items to which standard costs apply has been drawn together using information gained from Forestry Commission Scotland experience, Forest Research Technical Development Branch, the Institute of Chartered Foresters, Scottish Natural Heritage ( SNH), the Crofters' Commission, and the Scottish Agricultural College ( SAC).
All woodland related operations should accord with the relevant Forestry and Arboriculture Safety and Training Council ( FASTCo) Safety Guides and should be carried out in accordance with the current Forestry Commission Scotland Environmental Guidelines ( e.g.: The latest FC Forests & Water Guidelines should be adhered to at all times). Prior to carrying out any chemical application within a woodland, you should refer to FC Field Book 8 'The use of herbicides in the forest' which gives full details of weed control using herbicides. It provides information on the appropriate products, product rates, methods of application and timing of application. Further information on the operational requirements will be found in the range of latest Forestry Commission Scotland publications.
Number | Capital Item | Specification | Standard Cost |
|---|
1. | Primary treatment of bracken | Primary treatment of bracken is required in the first year of a Bracken Management Programme/ Forest Management Plan on any area of land identified in the Bracken Management Programme / Forest Management Plan. The BMP/ Forest Management Plan will identify the areas of bracken to be cleared, merely controlled or left untreated over the life time of the contract. The BMP/ Forest Management Plan will provide annual management payments for a systematic programme of treatment and follow-up work. Primary treatment of bracken can be carried out by: a. chemical means - carried out at the full frond stage by application of a herbicide approved for this purpose. The herbicide may be applied using handheld equipment or a tractor mounted sprayer, weed wiper or by aerial spraying. b. mechanical means - for eradication, cut at least 3 times during the growing season within the first year of a 5-year BMP/ Forest Management Plan. For control, bracken should be whipped early in the growing season to sever the tender young bracken fronds before they are hardened off. The fronds may be cut cleanly by light whips, made from slender hardwood stems or thin metal rods. All buffer zones agreed within the contract should be adhered to at all times. An obligation is placed on anyone undertaking aerial application of pesticides to seek consent from SEPA, the local water authority, SNH and the local authority environmental services, having regard to required periods of notice. | €292/ hectare of infested land |
2. | Manual eradication of rhododendron | This method of control is very expensive and should only be considered for sensitive sites and/or for difficult areas where mechanised clearance methods are not possible. This operation involves the manual cutting and burning of rhododendron. All rhododendron to be removed should be cut as low as possible to the ground to minimise opportunity for re-growth. When lighting fires, ensure that site disturbance is kept to a minimum. This standard cost includes all subsequent operations to ensure that no re-growth results from the cut stools. Re-growth can be vigorous and this growth needs to be treated with herbicide before it becomes too large to treat with manually operated applicators. At year 5, there must be no rhododendron present on site. | €5,110/ hectare of infested land |
3. | Mechanised (and/or chemical) eradication of rhododendron | This standard cost includes all subsequent operations to ensure that no re-growth results from the flailed stools. Re-growth can be vigorous and this growth needs to be treated with herbicide before it becomes too large to treat with manually operated applicators. A second application of herbicide maybe required on some sites. If a flail is to be used, then it is designed to cut and mulch the rhododendron. Flails can be fitted on tracked excavators, walking excavators and tractor mounted PTO drives. All rhododendron to be removed should be cut as low as possible to the ground to ensure that the minimum re-growth occurs. Alternatively a machine can be used to uproot rhododendron. The most efficient machine for raking is an excavator with bucket which can heap for the fire and, in larger fires, can help attend the fire to ensure all cut material gets burnt. Chemical Treatment of Standing Rhododendron: This grant is for the stem injection of herbicide to kill off established rhododendron bushes. This method is only to be used where the mechanised or manual removal of rhododendron is unsuitable or the removal of the bush from the site is not required to fulfil your objectives. The drill and injection method is best used in larger bushes where access to the stem is possible to allow drilling. The stem should be drilled below the last fork and as close to the main root system as possible to create a hole that will contain all the herbicide solution. The cost includes any follow up applications of herbicide or hand pulling of seedlings to ensure there are no successful regeneration from seed. At year 5, there must be no rhododendron present on site. | €1,241/ hectare of infested land |
4. | Eradication of scrub/woody vegetation: Light vegetation | This standard cost is available for the eradication of scrub/woody vegetation The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it: Light scrub category: young and/or small in height ; able to walk through easily; scrub stems typically no more than 7.5cm (3" thick); In hand mechanical terms, scrubcutter/ clearing saw is most appropriate tool for job. This standard cost includes all subsequent operations to ensure that no regrowth results from the cut stems. Regrowth can be vigorous and this growth needs to be treated with herbicide before it becomes too large to treat with manually operated applicators. A second application of herbicide may be required on some sites. You will need to inspect for scrub regrowth each summer in order to determine whether or not you need to carry out further control work. See monitoring guidance sheet for details of the method to use. All vegetation to be eradicated should be cut as low as possible to the ground to ensure that the minimum regrowth occurs. Alternatively a machine can be used to uproot the vegetation. If a flail is to be used, then it must be designed to cut and mulch the vegetation. Flails can be fitted on tracked excavators, walking excavators and tractor mounted PTO drives. It is assumed that the scrub/woody vegetation will not require to be taken away from the land. However, supplements are available where the removal of the cut material is required to enable the regeneration of the cleared habitat e.g. species-rich grassland. Chemical control can also be carried out where the mechanised or manual removal of the vegetation is unsuitable or the removal of the vegetation from the site is not required to fulfil your objectives. This includes stem injection of herbicide to kill off established vegetation. The drill and injection method is best used in larger vegetation where access to the stem is possible to allow drilling. The stem should be drilled below the last fork and as close to the main root system as possible to create a hole that will contain all the herbicide solution. Chemical control can also be by weed wiping or spot spraying. | €876/ hectare |
| Intermediate vegetation | This standard cost is available for the eradication of scrub/woody vegetation identified within a Vegetation Management Plan. In woodland settings, this plan should normally be set out within the context of a Forest Plan. The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it. Intermediate scrub category: may be able to be walked through with some difficulty, but chainsaw is the most appropriate hand mechanical removal tool as opposed to scrubcutter/ clearing saw. This standard cost includes all subsequent operations to ensure that no regrowth results from the cut stems. Regrowth can be vigorous and this growth needs to be treated with herbicide before it becomes too large to treat with manually operated applicators. A second application of herbicide may be required on some sites. You will need to inspect for scrub regrowth each summer in order to determine whether or not you need to carry out further control work. See monitoring guidance sheet for details of the method to use. All vegetation to be eradicated should be cut as low as possible to the ground to ensure that the minimum regrowth occurs. Alternatively a machine can be used to uproot the vegetation. If a flail is to be used, then the operation must ensure it is designed to cut and mulch the vegetation. Flails can be fitted on tracked excavators, walking excavators and tractor mounted PTO drives. It is assumed that the scrub/woody vegetation will not require to be taken away from the land. Supplements are available where the removal of the cut material is required to enable the regeneration of the remaining habitat e.g. species-rich grassland. Chemical control can also be carried out where the mechanised or manual removal of the vegetation is unsuitable or the removal of the vegetation from the site is not required to fulfil your objectives. This includes stem injection of herbicide to kill off established vegetation. The drill and injection method is best used in larger vegetation where access to the stem is possible to allow drilling. The stem should be drilled below the last fork and as close to the main root system as possible to create a hole that will contain all the herbicide solution. Chemical control can also be by weed wiping or spot spraying. With the eradication of intermediate or heavy scrub, cut stumps should be treated immediately with an appropriate chemical to prevent subsequent regrowth, with a water soluble coloured dye to help ensure complete coverage. | €1,241/ hectare |
| Heavy vegetation | This standard cost is available for the eradication of scrub/woody vegetation Identified within a Vegetation Management Plan. In woodland settings, this plan should normally be set out within the context of a Forest Plan. The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it. Heavy scrub category: is either old or in the form of dense vegetation cover (for example: gorse and hawthorn), very difficult to walk through and requires significant effort in order to remove. Chainsaw is the appropriate hand mechanical tool for the job. This standard cost includes all subsequent operations to ensure that no regrowth results from the cut stems. Regrowth can be vigorous and this growth needs to be treated with herbicide before it becomes too large to treat with manually operated applicators. A second application of herbicide may be required on some sites. You will need to inspect for scrub regrowth each summer in order to determine whether or not you need to carry out further control work. See monitoring guidance sheet for details of the method to use. All vegetation to be eradicated should be cut as low as possible to the ground to ensure that the minimum regrowth occurs. Alternatively a machine can be used to uproot the vegetation. If a flail is to be used, then the operation must ensure it is designed to cut and mulch the vegetation. Flails can be fitted on tracked excavators, walking excavators and tractor mounted PTO drives. It is assumed that the scrub/woody vegetation will not require to be taken away from the land. Supplements are available where the removal of the cut material is required to enable the regeneration of the remaining habitat e.g. species-rich grassland. Chemical control can also be carried out where the mechanised or manual removal of the vegetation is unsuitable or the removal of the vegetation from the site is not required to fulfil your objectives. This includes stem injection of herbicide to kill off established vegetation. The drill and injection method is best used in larger vegetation where access to the stem is possible to allow drilling. The stem should be drilled below the last fork and as close to the main root system as possible to create a hole that will contain all the herbicide solution. Chemical control can also be by weed wiping or spot spraying. With the eradication of intermediate or heavy scrub, cut stumps should be treated immediately with an appropriate chemical to prevent subsequent regrowth, with a water soluble coloured dye to help ensure complete coverage. | €1,825/ hectare |
| Removal from site of the cut shrub/ woody vegetation: light vegetation cover | This payment is for the removal from the site of the cut and/or machine removed vegetation where the removal of the cut material is required to enable the regeneration of the remaining habitat e.g. species-rich grassland. You must demonstrate that the vegetation will be removed to a suitable destination in agreement with all relevant approving bodies. The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it. Light scrub category: either young and/or small in height; able to walk through easily; scrub stems typically no more than 7.5cm (3" thick); In hand mechanical terms, scrubcutter/ clearing saw is most appropriate tool for job. | €730/ hectare |
| Removal from site of the cut shrub/ woody vegetation: intermediate vegetation cover | You must demonstrate that the vegetation will be removed to a suitable destination in agreement with all relevant approving bodies. The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it. Intermediate scrub category: may be able to be walked through with some difficulty, but chainsaw is the most appropriate hand mechanical removal tool as opposed to scrubcutter/ clearing saw. | €1,533/ hectare |
| Removal from site of the cut shrub/ woody vegetation: heavy vegetation cover | This grant is for the removal from the site of the cut and/or machine removed vegetation where the removal of the cut material is required to enable the regeneration of the remaining habitat e.g. species-rich grassland. You must demonstrate that the vegetation will be removed to a suitable destination in agreement with all relevant approving bodies. The category of scrub cover is defined by the nature of the scrub and the work required to clear it. Heavy scrub category: is either old or in the form of dense vegetation cover (for example: gorse and hawthorn), very difficult to walk through and requires significant effort in order to remove. Chainsaw is the appropriate hand mechanical tool for the job. | €2,117/ hectare |
5. | Dead wood management | For deadwood to make an important contribution to the conservation value of woodlands, it is recommended that a minimum of 5 m 3/ha of deadwood greater than 15 cm diameter be present over the whole forest. This value of retained deadwood will be greatest if it is concentrated in parts of the wood offering the highest potential for the development of saproxylic communities. Maintaining deadwood habitat should involve: - retaining existing old and large trees
- retaining accumulations of deadwood
- ensuring the continuity of the full range of deadwood habitats
- ensuring that even-age stands of trees are diversified to ensure a continuous supply of dead wood.
- operating a minimum intervention policy, this can generate natural levels of deadwood within 100 years.
Where existing dead wood provision is inadequate it can be augmented by; - deadwood on living trees - avoiding surgery on trees that are not a risk to the public
- add standing deadwood - ring-barking selected trees that would not be a risk to the public.
- fallen wood - felling selected trees and leave to decay, preferably in dappled shade. - gathering sneddings from silvicultural operations into piles and leave to decay, preferably in dappled shade
| €58.40/ hectare |
6. | Stock fence | Conventional stock fencing should consist of stobs placed at intervals of no more than 3.5m centres with a minimum of 6 line wires or 2 line wires and woven wire netting. If a high tensile pattern fence is erected, the same requirements apply to the number of line wires or netting but stobs may be placed at up to 12m centres (6m spacing if cattle are present). Fence to be erected to be fit for purpose ( i.e. to ensure exclusion of livestock). Barbed wire should not be used as a separate line wire where fallow deer are present. Minimum Woodwork Sizes: Fencing against sheep and cattle | Length (m) | Top Diameter (cm) |
|---|
Strainer / end posts | 2.3 | 10 - 13 |
|---|
Struts | 2.0 | 8 - 10 |
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Stakes | 1.7 | 8 - 10 |
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The costs of gates (except water-gates) are not included within this standard cost. Gates will be installed where required to enable any appropriate management activities or husbandry operations to be carried out (see item 15). Gates for non-vehicular access must be installed, or gaps provided, in reasonable numbers and locations, sufficient to allow exercise of the right of responsible access (see item 16), or, as a last resort, stiles installed in reasonable numbers and locations, sufficient to allow exercise of the right of responsible access (see item 17). Any water-gate must be fit for purpose, i.e. designed to keep watercourses stockproof, whatever the level of the water. Electric fences can be used. Barbed wires must not be used in electrified fences. Warning notices must be displayed on all electric fences (including conventional fences or supports which carry bare lead wires) at access points and suitable intervals of 50 - 100 metres along their length. | €5.84/ metre |
7. | Enhancing/ modifying a stock fence (in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas) | When erecting a new stock fence in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas, this item is available as a supplement to the standard Stock Fence option. This standard cost is also available to modify an existing stock fence in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas The cost of this additional fence requirement includes the use of fence visibility marking materials (includes droppers and woodwork). When modifying the existing fence, you must ensure that the existing fenceline has the capabilities to cope with the extra strain, has an appropriate top wire and has struts in appropriate positions. All fencing woodwork should be treated. Further details on the specifications and diagrams can be found in the FC Research Technical Guide: Forest Fencing (2006) The core areas reflect the actual Scottish distribution of Capercaillie and Black Grouse. These areas are defined and updated by RSPB and the subsequent maps are available from both FCS and RSPB. The local Capercaillie/Black Grouse project officer, in conjunction with the RSPB, will provide advice on the siting of fences to reduce potential problems. | €2.92/ metre |
8. | Upgrading stock to deer fence | This standard cost is for the upgrading of an existing stock fence to that of a deer fence. For full specification, please refer to specification for capital item 12. The position of the fenceline should take into account the right of responsible access. The supply and erection of any upgraded or additional gates and watergates are included in the fencing costs. | €4.02/ metre |
9. | Scare or temporary fencing | (a) Scare fencing, either alongside a rebuilt dyke or on metal stanchions set in the dyke, should consist of a minimum of 2 wires with posts or metal stanchions at intervals of not more than 6 metres. (b) Temporary electric fencing is eligible where the delivery of an outcome requires the seasonal control of grazing on an area being managed under a contract. The temporary electric fencing system chosen (single wire, multiple wires, netting, electrified tape and/or electrified rope) must be fit for purpose, i.e. create an effective barrier against the category of livestock being controlled. | €2.19/ metre |
10. | Rabbit proofing - existing or new stock/ deer fence | This standard cost is applicable for the rabbit proofing of an existing or new stock or deer fence where it has been agreed that rabbit damage is preventing the management or contract objectives from being met. The top edge of the galvanised wire netting shall not be less than 0.9 metre above ground. The netting shall be not less than 1.05 metre wide, 18 gauge and with a mesh size no larger than 31mm. The netting shall be fastened to the fencing and the bottom edge of the netting turned outwards for a minimum of 150mm and anchored with either turves or pegs - to deter rabbits from digging under the fence. All gates in proofed fences must also be proofed. | €2.77/ metre |
11. | Deer fence | This standard cost is applicable where a deer fence is required in order to achieve the objectives of a woodland or non-woodland measure. The deer fence specification is for protection of a managed area from all types of deer and a combination of these with cattle and/or sheep. The minimum fence height for protection against roe deer is 1.5m. The minimum fence height for protection against red/sika/fallow deer is 1.8m. Deer fences to be erected using woven high tensile, mild steel or welded rectangular mesh. The netting can vary from half to full length. | Max width
between vertical
on mesh | Max heights
between horizontals
on mesh |
|---|
Red/Sika | 30cm | 13cm |
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Fallow | 22cm | 13cm |
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Roe | 15cm | 17cm |
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All fencing woodwork should be treated. The costs of gates (except water-gates) are not included within this standard cost. Gates will be installed where required to enable any appropriate management activities or husbandry operations to be carried out (see item 15). Gates for non-vehicular access must be installed or gaps provided or, as a last resort, stiles installed in reasonable numbers and locations, sufficient to allow exercise of the right of responsible access. The position of the fenceline should take into account the right of responsible access. Any water-gate must be fit for purpose, i.e. designed to keep watercourses stockproof, whatever the level of the water. Further details on the specifications and diagrams (including the recommended woodwork sizes and spacings) can be found in the FC Research Technical Guide: Forest Fencing (2006). | €10.07/ metre |
12. | Enhancing/ modifying a deer fence (in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas) | When erecting a new fence in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas, this item is available as a supplement to the standard Deer Fence option. The cost of this additional fence requirement includes the use of fence visibility marking materials (includes droppers and woodwork). This standard cost is also available to modify an existing deer fence in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas When modifying the existing fence, you must ensure that the existing fence line has the capabilities to cope with the extra strain, has an appropriate top wire and has struts in appropriate positions. All fencing woodwork should be treated. Further details on the specifications and diagrams can be found in the FC Research Technical Guide: Forest Fencing (2006) The core areas reflect the actual Scottish distribution of Capercaillie and Black Grouse. These areas are defined and updated by RSPB and the subsequent maps are available from both FCS and RSPB. The local Capercaillie/Black Grouse project officer, in conjunction with the RSPB, will provide advice on the siting of fences to reduce potential problems. For full height woodwork: - Chestnut paling & sawn softwood droppers @ 1.8m x 9m rolls. 4 spun wires. It is recommended that a max 15cm spacing of pales/droppers is used close to lek sites and 30cm spacing elsewhere, especially in exposed locations.
- The max spacings of 15cm should be used in areas where protection against roe deer is required.
- Top of paling to reach top of fence - no line wires should remain above the paling.
- 2.6m deer stakes (treated & round) @6m spacing. Paling wires stapled to posts once strained.
- Struts and thrust plates @ 12m spacing.
- Treated strainer posts and stays @ 100m spacing.
- 3 line wires at specification HT3.15mm or spring steel 2.65mm. Paling wires to be attached to top and bottom line wires alternately every metre with stainless steel sack-ties, hog rings or line ties.
For half length woodwork: - Chestnut paling & sawn softwood droppers @ 1.0m x 9m rolls. 3 spun wires. It is recommended that a max 15cm spacing of pales/droppers is used close to lek sites and 30cm spacing elsewhere, especially in exposed locations.
- The max spacings of 15cm should be used in areas where protection against roe deer is required.
- Paling to be placed as the top half of fence above rabbit or rectangular net @ 90cm. Top of paling to reach top of fence - no line wires should remain above the paling.
- 5'6" treated and round posts at 6m spacing.
- 2.6m deer stakes (treated & round) @6m spacing. Paling wires stapled to posts once strained.
- Struts and thrust plates @ 12m spacing.
- Treated strainer posts and stays @ 100m spacing.
- 3 line wires at specification HT3.15mm or spring steel 2.65mm. Paling wires to be attached to top and bottom line wires alternately every metre with stainless steel sack-ties, hog rings or line ties.
| €7.30/ metre |
13. | Conversion of deer fence to stock fence (in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas) | This item is only available in Black Grouse and Capercaillie core areas. Conversion of a deer fence to a stock fence will involve complete dismantling and removal of the wires and nets on the top half of the fence to leave a stock fence with specifications defined as at item number 6 or 7 as appropriate. The core areas reflect the actual Scottish distribution of Capercaillie and Black Grouse. These areas are defined and updated by RSPB and the subsequent maps are available from both FCS, SNH and RSPB. The local Capercaillie/Black Grouse project officer, in conjunction with the RSPB, will provide advice and confirmation on the suitability and necessity for this conversion with the aim to reduce potential problems. All materials should be removed from site for re-use/recycling or disposed of in a suitable landfill site - as recognized by the local authority. | €2.92/ metre |
14. | Fence removal | The fence should be completely dismantled and all materials removed from site for re-use/recycling or disposed of in a suitable landfill site - as recognised by the local authority. | €2.92/ metre |
15. | Gate: For stock fence For deer fence | Gates must be fit for the purpose of enabling appropriate management or allowing any necessary husbandry operations to be carried out, e.g. livestock grazing control or woodland establishment. The gate must have a minimum width of 3 metres and be correctly fitted with hangings and latches. The use of wire, rope, baler twine etc. to secure the gate is not acceptable. The standard cost includes the cost of one strainer. Gates and gate posts will be either timber or galvanised steel. Timber is to be of CCP pressure-treated softwood or untreated hardwood. Access provision should always take account of the needs of people with disabilities. | €146 each €248.20 each |
16. | Self-closing gate or kissing gate for non-vehicular access | Gates and gate posts will be either timber or of galvanised steel. If timber, gates and posts are to be of CCP pressure-treated softwood or untreated hardwood. (a) Bridle or wicket gates are to be two-way opening, and self closing. Latches to be standard bolts or latches, preferably operable from horseback. Wire, twine or rope is not acceptable. Desirable minimum width of bridle gate is 1500mm. Absolute minimum width of 1200mm is acceptable if available width is restricted. (b) If a kissing gate is justified it must be of the largest possible size and be the least restrictive design. Gates must be self closing with user friendly latch if required. Latches should be unlockable to allow gate to open out of cage for maximum accessibility. Desirable minimum width of kissing gate is 1500mm. Absolute minimum width of 1200mm is acceptable if available width is restricted. Cage width / diameter to be appropriate to gate width and use. Hang / clash posts to be either galvanised steel minimum of 50 x 50 box section or 75mm diameter tube or timber strainer posts minimum of 200mm diameter. Posts to be firmly dug or driven into ground and concreted if required. Proprietary gate frames are acceptable and must be installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions Where fences are cut to allow gate installation, restrain with timber or steel strainer posts. Struts and stakes to be specified as in item 6 above. If drystane walls are to be cut, new end faces of stonework are to be straight and even and tight to new gate posts. Provide timber or steel post and rail fencing to tie new gates into existing fence / wall lines as appropriate. Surfaces up to and through gates should be firm, level and well drained. New surfacing is not always required but surface though the gate should be appropriate to the standard of path it is located on. New surfacing, if required, should be 100 - 150 mm depth (as required) of graded granular fill ( e.g. Type 1, Scalpings, road planings, sand & gravel) blinded with dust to provide a smooth, even surface. Provide suitable falls to ensure surface water drains away. Information on designs and structures can be found within the Countryside Access Design Guide - Information sheets 2.2 - 2.17 ( http://www.snh.org.uk/publications/on-line/accessguide) | €511 each |
17. | Stile | Access provision should always take account of the needs of people with disabilities. Stiles should only be provided if there is no other alternative where a gate or gap is judged to be unsuitable and use is very low. Stiles will prevent access for the majority of legitimate users. They are a barrier for many people who could otherwise responsibly access the area even if the terrain is steep and rough. Stiles are also more likely than gates to cause a trip or a fall. If a stile is to be installed on a path, there should be an assessment of whether such action is justified. Stiles may be installed beside an unlocked field gate, if appropriate to help reduce the frequency of gate opening. Stiles should be constructed and installed on the basis of the following key design principles: - stiles erected in inappropriate locations can cause inconvenience and discomfort to users and, in some cases, may restrict people's ability to gain access to the countryside. Stiles are impassable to wheelchair and pushchair users and can be an insurmountable barrier to disabled, elderly and less agile people. A stile should only be installed as a last resort when it is not possible to provide access by means of a gap or gate.
- the height rise between the ground and the first step and between steps should be the same
- steps should be at least 200 mm wide and 900 mm long.
- there should be no sharp edges on steps, fence rails and uprights
Information on designs and structures can be found within the Countryside Access Design Guide - ( http://www.snh.org.uk/publications/on-line/accessguide) | €80.30 each |
18. | Stock bridge for bog management: Small bridge Large bridge (for ditch wider than 1.5m) | Bridges should be strong enough and wide enough to allow sheep and quad bikes safe and easy access across them. The use of high quality second-hand materials such as telegraph poles or railway sleepers is acceptable, as long as they are likely to remain appropriate for use in 5 years. | €248.20 per bridge €905.20 per bridge |
19. | Small-scale tree and shrub planting (on a site not exceeding 0.25 hectares) | Small scale tree and shrub planting and woodland enrichment will apply to discrete areas up to 0.25 ha in size and overall will not cover more than 25% of the eligible woodland area. The standard cost includes the costs of the individual tree protection measure (tree shelter plus treated softwood stake / hardwood stake). The costings attributed to this method of establishment / enrichment include the planting (including labour and cost of tree), the beating-up, the weeding, fertilising and the supervision until the site is established. Stake should penetrate the ground for at least 30 cm, be below the lip of the tree shelter but 10 cm above the upper tie. Ties should not encircle the tree to enable later removal. Care is required to ensure the lower tie does not ensnare the tree. The top of the tree shelter should be of rounded or folded design to minimise damage to the emerging tree. Tree shelter to be pushed into the ground to minimise access by voles. Length of tree shelter is dependent upon the type of browsing that is likely to occur. In carrying out the planting operations, we will require you to choose species and stocking levels which are appropriate to the site and appropriate to the objective(s) which your proposals are designed to meet. Applicants proposing to plant trees should be strongly advised to discuss their proposals with those neighbours whose properties might be affected. Where roadside tree planting is proposed and planting is to be within 5 metres of the edge of any made-up carriageway, you should provide confirmation that the Local Highways Authority does not object to your proposals. | €2.92/ tree or shrub |
20. | Replacement or new single trees within a Designed Landscape or to enhance the rural landscape | This item is available when carried out within a Designed Landscape or to enhance the rural landscape The trees must be standard or semi-standard. Trees to be planted should be no greater than 4 metres high. Trees planted should be of species that are in keeping with the original design or to reflect the character of the local landscape respectively. Historic Scotland (for Designed Landscapes) or SNH should be consulted for advice. This standard cost covers the individual tree protection and support, i.e. for smaller tree: tree shelter plus treated softwood stake / hardwood stake; larger tree: post, strut, spacer and heavy duty tie. Applicants proposing to plant trees are strongly advised to discuss their proposals with those neighbours whose properties might be affected. Where roadside tree planting is proposed and planting is to be within 5 metres of the edge of any made-up carriageway, you should provide confirmation that the Local Highways Authority does not object to his/ her proposals. | €146/ tree |
21. | Post & rail fence | Wooden post and three rail fencing shall not be less than 1.1 metres high with rails of at least 38 mm x 87 mm sawn timber and posts not greater than 1.8 metres apart. Purposes would include - - to protect a veteran/ established parkland tree or new individual trees from damage by livestock Metal tree guards should be 1.1 metres high and painted to match any existing guards. All fencing materials must be new.
- To provide a safeguard or handrail beside a section of path - for instance close to a steep drop or embankment edge. The fence should be in keeping with the surroundings of a recreational site.
| €14.60/ metre |
22. | Building/restoring drystane or flagstone dykes | Only drystane/ flagstone dykes which have suffered major damage or deterioration ( i.e. totally collapsed sections of wall greater than 2 metres in length) are eligible. Drystane or flagstone dykes or walls should be rebuilt with material traditional to the locality and to a standard and style normally found there. Dyking work includes the rebuilding of fanks, stells and stone-faced earth banks (including ha-has) where these are of traditional drystane dyke construction. Where renovated dykes cross access paths or bridle roads, gates or stiles must be incorporated. Dykes may be pointed or cement mortar used for setting coping stones as part of building or restoring a dyke provided it is a traditional practice in that area. Pointing on its own is not eligible. | €25.55 per square metre |
23. | Sand blow fencing | Fences must be erected at right angles to the prevailing wind direction and be constructed using chestnut palings with a void: solid ratio of between 30% and 50% or using timber slats not more than 50 mm wide with gaps of the same size. Posts should be long enough to allow burial to about 1 metre below beach level and to leave 1 metre above ground. Regular inspection should be undertaken to remove any debris that may be caught along the fencing. | €14.60/ metre |
24. | Planting of marram grass into areas threatened with erosion | Marram plants must be harvested from areas where marram is well established and there is little danger from erosion. Planting is to be carried out in the spring to maximise potential growth and minimise the risk of storm erosion. The Marram grass is to be transplanted in off-set rows at 0.2 to 0.9 metre intervals above the mean high-water mark. Any unhealthy or dead plants must be replaced. Sand-blow fencing should be erected before planting. Livestock and rabbits must be excluded from the newly planted area. Such work is to be carried out in accordance with practices that have been shown to be successful locally. | €11.68 per square metre |
25. | Provision of water trough to replace traditional watering points | Provision of a water trough to replace traditional watering points is for circumstances where habitat management under Rural Priorities means that stock do not have access to traditional watering points. The water trough must be a purpose-made unit, i.e. galvanised steel, concrete, spray-moulded glass reinforced cement ( GRC) or polyethylene, and incorporate a ball cock to regulate the water supply in accordance with local byelaws. The trough must be permanently mounted on a suitable durable base with a stop cock to control the water supply. | €284.70 each |
26. | Installation of water supply pipe to water trough or pasture pump | The water supply pipe may be of polyethylene or UPVC and must be laid underground at a minimum depth of 800 mm. | €4.38 per metre of pipe laid |
27. | Water trough pump: cattle-operated pasture or nose pump | The pump shall be designed to allow the animal to use its nose to push a lever that pumps water into a small water bowl or reservoir. The pump should normally be of cast iron with a low wear level mechanism and the connection and valve of a non-corrosive material. A metal splash pan can be positioned under the reservoir to catch spillage. The pumps should be anchored securely to prevent movement. | €262.80 per installed pump |
28. | Soil analysis (including sampling) | A representative soil sample from an identifiable parcel of land must be sent for laboratory analysis for pH and lime requirement, extractable phosphorus, potassium and magnesium content in order to determine an economic fertiliser/ manure requirement. | €36.35 per sample |
29. | Planting or replanting of hedge | Where new hedging or gapping up of existing hedges is undertaken, plants must be established in a double row with a minimum of 6 plants per metre. A single species must not account for more than 75% of plants established. Species used should be native-species trees and shrubs*, although beech and sycamore may be planted where these are appropriate and traditional in hedges locally. Stock of local provenance should be obtained wherever possible. Plants must be protected from grazing livestock and, where they are a problem, rabbits. Protection may be in the form of stockproof fencing with, where necessary, rabbit-proof netting. Weed control around each hedge plant is essential during the first three to four years. Weed control may be carried out by frequent cutting or mulching (incl. black polythene sheeting) or spot treatment using a herbicide approved for this purpose. If hedges are to be planted or replanted along roadsides, the highway authority's consent is required for planting within 5 metres of the edge of any major roadway. * a comprehensive list of native species is available from SNH | €6.28/ metre |
30. | Coppicing of hedge | Coppicing overgrown hedges ('old' hedges or 1- or 2- year old 'newly-planted' hedges) should be in accordance with local tradition. All growth should be cut down to about 75 mm to 100 mm above ground level and left to re-grow. Coppicing should be done between 1 December and the end of February (during February for better results), in spells of mild weather. One year after coppicing, any gaps should be planted up. One or two years after coppicing, new growth should be lightly trimmed to encourage side-growth. Allow hedge to grow to 2 to 3.5 metres in height (5 to 15 years) before laying. | €5.84/ metre |
31. | Laying of hedge | Laying overgrown hedges should be in accordance with local tradition and should create a stockproof barrier. Hedge laying should be carried out between the beginning of November and the end of February (during February for better results). Where gaps occur, new planting should be carried out. A newly planted hedge should not be layed until the hedge has grown to between 2 and 3.5 metres in height. Re-laying should not be required for another 10 to 30 years depending on species, management, climate and soil. | €13.12/ metre |
32. | Creation or restoration of a pond | The site chosen must have an adequate supply of water and be capable of retaining water all year round. In most cases new ponds will require to be sealed with clay. An impermeable lining covered with at least 30 cm soil may be used, but the standard cost for this option does not cater for this type of work. It is your responsibility to obtain any planning permission that may be required for the creation of a new pond. In all cases when the capacity exceeds 1,000 cubic metres, the administering body should be consulted on the need for formal certification. Any outfall must be properly constructed. The last length of the buried pipe must be solid and frost-proof. The outfall should be at least 150 mm above normal discharge channel water level. The last 2.0 m of buried pipe must be sealed with well-rammed soil to avoid water flow outside the pipe. Headstones of cemented stones or bricks or purpose built installations are needed to stabilise the bank and to keep the pipe in position. Drip stones or concrete aprons may be needed to prevent erosion of the discharge panel. The standard cost will be calculated on the area of the water body created. Restoration of an existing pond is usually easier and more beneficial to wildlife than creating a new pond. | €4.38 per square metre |
33. | Laying down species-rich grassland | Any existing sward must be destroyed and a stale seed bed created by cultivation followed by herbicide application. The site must be sown with a low productivity grass and herb mix consisting of no more than 85% non-aggressive fine-leaved grasses and at least 15% mixed native flowers. A seed rate of 20 kg per hectare will be appropriate for most circumstances. Following sowing, the seed bed will be rolled. No lime, fertiliser, slurry or farmyard manure may be applied to the site. When choosing a seed mixture, only include plant species that occur naturally in unimproved grassland in the local region (and are available commercially); Seed of local provenance should be obtained wherever possible and must be of at least UK stock. | €992.80 per hectare |
34. | Heather restoration (in Black Grouse core areas) | This item is available where heather restoration is required in Black Grouse core areas. All proposals will be part of the wider moorland management programme on the holding, complementing muirburn, bracken control, fencing and an appropriate grazing regime. Treatment should involve a combination of Molinia spraying, cutting, burning as appropriate; and where necessary, heather seeding. Livestock will be temporarily removed from the treated areas to prevent grazing/trampling of the new heather growth. No treatment at locations where there is already sufficient suppressed heather, which simply requires lighter grazing pressure to encourage its recovery. No treatment of Molinia stands which have reasonable plant species diversity and are therefore of interest in their own right. Vegetation dominated by cotton-grass (Eriophorum spp.) should not be treated. Within the area of Molinia which is potentially suitable for treatment, the treatment should be carried out in a series of scattered blocks or rows, rather than a single extensive block, in order to create a more diverse mosaic of habitats. On SSSIs, any treatment should be discussed with SNH staff at the planning stage. | €365/ hectare |
35. | Heather track creation for bog management | 1 metre wide tracks will be created through blocks of tall heather, by hand-strimming or double-tyred tractor-mounted swipe (if use of machinery will not damage ground vegetation) | €2.19/ metre |
36. | Peat dam | Moor grips will be blocked with peat dams to slow the flow of water through moor grips and prevent erosion. The average distance between dams will be 25 metres and no more than 50 metres. The distance between dams should be based on one dam per 20 cm drop in ground level. Each individual peat dam must be to the full depth (and should extend 10 cm above top of grip) and width of the grip and extend along the grip by at least two times the maximum width of the grip at the point of the dam. Where the dam is to be built, the face and base of the ditch should be cleared back to unoxidised peat to create a key for the dam. Turf removed must be retained and replaced on top of the dam. Where machinery is used, this should be low ground pressure and not result in damage to surrounding habitats. During year 4, if more than 10% of the dams are not holding water, additional works are to take place to repair or replace (adjacent to existing) dams. | €0.38 per metre of moor grip to be blocked with peat dams. Minimum payment €438. |
37. | Ditch blocking with plastic piling dams: Small ditches (up to 0.5 m wide & deep) Medium ditches (between 0.5m and 1 m wide & deep) Large ditches (between 1m and 2m wide and 0.5m and 1m deep) | Ditch blocking will be appropriate for the restoration of the natural hydrology of bog habitats. For existing ditches which are actively taking water off the bogs, block ditches at intervals by manually installing dams made of impermeable plastic sheeting (known as plastic piling) to raise or maintain the water table at or just below the surface of the vegetation. Vehicles can only be used where they will not damage ground vegetation. Detailed requirements for location and installation are provided within Guidance Note. You will be required to carry out an inspection of the dams each year, and undertake any minor maintenance work required. You will be required to provide an annual report, preferably with photographs, to record the condition of your dams and note any control work undertaken. See monitoring guidance sheet for details of the method to use. | €87.60 per dam €175.20 per dam €408.80 per dam |
38. | Underdrain (or culvert) breaking. | Mark field drain (and/or culvert) locations with canes Dig down to drain at a location as close to the wetland edge of the buffer zone as possible, so that the new elevated water level will not affect adjacent cultivated land. Once located, break drain and block the lower end with soil or other impervious material. Remove some of the permeable backfill above the down slope drain and place in the bottom of the hole above the break. Seal the drainage backfill on the down slope side of the hole, by placing and compacting soil on this face of the hole. Create a hole with stepped sides around the break, extending to 2 times the depth of the hole ( i.e. 1m deep hole would have a diameter of 2m). Use the spoil from the hole to create a shallow crescent (30 to 50 cm high) down slope (3 to 5m) from the break. The crescent will retain a pool of water and will increase the spread of the surface flow down slope. | €29.20 per drain (or culvert) broken |
39. | Watercourse channel enhancement | The watercourse to be enhanced must in the past have been, straightened, canalised or modified. The watercourse must be re-profiled to create a '2 stage' cross profile: 1. At the bottom: a summer flow channel, typically 20-50 cm in width and depth, narrow enough to maintain a fast flow of water in normal summer conditions. The fast flow encourages the watercourse to cut downwards and lead to it re-establishing gravel beds by cutting through silt. 2. A wider winter- or spate-flow channel - typically wider than the existing channel, created by the removal of bunds and the re-profiling of the channel from a steep rhombus to a shallow, asymmetric U shape. This re-profiling should increase the overall volume of the channel and its ability to hold winter flows. Significantly it should allow the watercourse to re-establish meanders within the overall channel, and also create wetted areas, temporary pools and the development of marginal vegetation The re-profiling should be done by a combination of two actions: 1. removal of any bund, with material spread on the adjacent field. 2. 'pushing' down the vegetated sides of one or both banks to reduce the bed-width of the channel and create the summer flow channel. Overall the watercourse should be allowed to establish its natural riffle pool glide and meander structure, with the associated benefits to water quality and wildlife habitat.Where possible, the work should be done within the existing margin of uncropped land, i.e. with minimum disruption to adjacent fields. It can be done from one side or both sides. - the pushing down of alternate sections of bank enhances the meander structure of the watercourse. Timing - late summer/autumn to establish correct level of summer channel. The standard cost will be calculated on the length of watercourse enhanced. | €5.84/linear metre of watercourse |
40. | Provision of bat or bird box | Bat boxes are to be made of rough-sawn soft wood sourced from a sustainably managed forest. The box must not be painted or treated with preservative as these can harm the bats. There must be a 15 to 20 mm entrance gap at the base of the box. Bird boxes are to be made with wood sourced from a sustainably managed forest. If required, treat the outside of the box with a water-based preservative. The dimension and design of the box will depend on the species of bird utilising the habitat where the box will be placed. | €21.90 per box |
41. | Open range deer management to enhance the natural heritage | This standard cost provides support for changes in open range deer management aimed at enhancing the condition of the special features on designated sites. It is available over deer ranges containing designated sites that are considered to be at risk from adverse impacts by deer. Priority will be given to sites on the work programme for joint action on deer management listed on the Scottish Executive website, link. The proposed operations should be set out in a Deer Management Plan ( DMP), which that complies with Deer Commission for Scotland best practice guidance. This plan should include targets for enhancing the condition of key habitats on the designated site, which are achievable within a 5 year period. There will be a review in year 3 and further changes in management may be needed if there has not been reasonable progress towards these targets. Where deer and livestock are both present on the designated site in significant numbers this item will only be available in conjunction with a Moorland Management Plan which takes account of the combined impact of all grazing animals on the site and incorporates the key elements of the DMP. Where the net cost of making changes in open range deer management is likely to exceed €5.11 per hectare, payments may be based on estimated net costs. The operations proposed in the DMP should be costed using a standard proforma and agreed in advance. Payment will be based on the agreed costs of management. | €4.38/hectare |
42. | Environmental Audit. | Funding will be available for the preparation of environmental audits of the holding undertaking agri-environment measure in Rural Priorities. The audit will be produced to a set specification and will include a spatially accurate map of the features on the holding concerned and an assessment of their condition, and recommendations for activities that improve the environmental performance of the farm business. | (a) 50% of costs up to a maximum of €292 per plan. |
*This option will only be available in exceptional circumstances where significant additional action or effort is required over and above the standard cost capital items, to bring the qualifying interests of SSSIs and Natura sites into favourable condition. It may be used alone or in combination with existing measures. Beneficiaries must provide justification of why the standard cost capital items and rates are not appropriate and provide details of the work required and the associated costs.
^ Non-lead indicator. Area under energy crops (objective indicator 25) and tonnes of CO2 equivalent (objective indicator 26) used as proxies for baseline objective indicator 24
$ Non-lead indicator on water quality (objective 21 pollution by nitrates and pesticides) will be proxied by % of water body length that is of good status for phosphates and is under development
~ Non-lead indicator (objective 23). Non-lead indicator on areas at risk of soil erosion under development. (objective 22)
* Tied to uptake of other measures including measure code 214.
# All impact indicators will be estimated based on output and result indicators. Quantitative data will be supplemented by qualitative judgement on change. Biodiversity: As measured by farmland bird species population, complemented by additional data on other species. High nature value farmland: Indicator is not developed. The alternative indicator to be used is hectares of land cover under farmland, woodland, urban, other. Water Quality: Gross supplemented by information on nitrates and phosphates. Climate change: Increases in production of renewable energy will be supplemented where appropriate with information on net carbon savings.