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THE RURAL STEWARDSHIP SCHEME 13. Moorland - Muirburn
and Heather Swiping
| Aim: To create blocks of heather at different
growth stages through a planned programme of burning or swiping. Some
BAP species that may benefit: Northern brown argus, Juniper, Skylark Eligible
sites: Moorland identified in a moorland management plan as appropriate
for muirburn or a swiping programme. An annual payment will be made on all land
which forms part of the total area to be covered by the ten year programme of
muirburn. | 
Muirburn Photo:
T. Donnolly - SNH Management Requirements: - All
muirburn must be undertaken in accordance with guidance approved by Scottish Ministers
- the Muirburn Code.
Also... - Heather burning
should be undertaken on a number of small areas rather than one large area.
- The
payment is applicable when an applicant enters into a long-term programme to make
muirburn on a regular (annual) basis. Payment is based on the area that is expected
to be burnt over the 10-year programme of muirburn. This area is to be illustrated
on the Environmental Audit map. It must be noted that it is not a strict requirement
to burn 10% of the area each year. Annual payments will be made provided SERAD
is satisfied that the applicant is making reasonable progress to achieve a satisfactory
burning programme over the area. It is accepted that in some years no burning
will be possible due to weather conditions. Due to the long-term nature of the
programme, it would be fully expected that the area involved would re-appear on
a second plan.
- Heather swiping is paid at the same rate as heather burning
both when swiping is carried out as an independent operation or as an aid in a
burning programme. Swiping should only be carried out in the burning season.
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