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THE RURAL STEWARDSHIP SCHEME

introduction

The landscape we have inherited in Scotland and the diversity of life within our country are the product of several billion years of geological activity and man's activities in relatively recent times since the retreat of the last glaciers from the Highland glens. The importance of achieving a balance between the sensitive management of our natural heritage in order to maintain and enhance that biodiversity, sustaining a viable agricultural industry and ensuring the long-term viability of rural communities is now well recognised.

In Scotland, schemes to encourage the adoption of environmentally-friendly farming practices have operated for a number of years now. Examples include the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Schemes which were first introduced in 1987, the Organic Aid Scheme which was introduced in 1994, and the Countryside Premium Scheme which was introduced in 1997.

This Booklet describes the latest scheme, the Rural Stewardship Scheme, which covers the whole of Scotland and supersedes the Environmentally Sensitive Areas and Countryside Premium Schemes.

The legislative bases for the Rural Stewardship Scheme are Council Regulation (EC) 1257/1999 for management payments, which are co-financed by the EC and the Scottish Executive and the Environment Act 1995 for capital items, which are entirely funded by the Scottish Executive.

Please take time to read the Booklet carefully before reaching a decision on whether to apply to join the RSS. Additional important information is contained in the folder that accompanies this booklet.

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