The scheme started in March 2005 and builds on the success of the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) scheme and the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS). No new entrants will be accepted onto ESA or CSS and it is expected that they will eventually be transferred into one of the new schemes.

The primary objectives of the Environmental Stewardship schemes are to:
- Conserve wildlife (biodiversity)
- Maintain and enhance landscape quality and character
- Protect the historic environment and natural resources
- Promote public access and understanding of the countryside.

There are three schemes within Environmental stewardship:

Entry Level Stewardship (ELS)

This is a "whole farm" scheme open to all farmers and land managers who farm their land conventionally. Acceptance will be guaranteed provided you can meet the scheme requirements. In outline farmers taking part in the scheme will prepare a simple environmental farm record, and then select environmental management options from a wide-ranging list. Each option is worth a certain number of points and you will need to reach a point's target of 30 points per hectare. All applicants who can get the required level of points will receive payment of £30/ha across the whole holding,

If you have a mix of conventionally and organically farmed land, or if your land is farmed organically, you should apply for OELS.

Organic Entry Level Stewardship (OELS)

This is a "whole farm" scheme similar to ELS, open to farmers who manage all or Aid Scheme or the Organic Farming Scheme.
NB. These two schemes are no longer open for new applications.

Higher Level Stewardship (HLS)

In most circumstances you will need to be in the ELS or OELS before applying for HLS. The aim of HLS is to deliver significant environmental benefits in high priority situations and areas. In addition to the aims of the ELS/OELS it has two secondary objectives - genetic conservation and flood management. Entry into this scheme is discretionary.
Applications will go though an assessment procedure which will take into account how the application meets the environmental priorities identified in your local HLS targeting statement. You will receive a copy of this statement with your application pack. You will need to prepare a Farm Environment Plan (FEP) to identify the important environmental features on your farm and their current condition.
Agreements last for 10 years with a five year break clause.

Who is eligible to apply?

Farmers and land managers.
There are different qualifying requirements for each element of the scheme.

How much is available?

ELS: £30/ha
OELS: £60/ha
HLS: The payments you receive will depend on the options you choose. Payments are also available for a wide range of capital works.

Contact details

Defra, Rural Development Service
Eastbrook, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge CB2 2DR
Tel: 01223 462727
Fax: 01223 533531
General enquiries email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Website: www.defra.gov.uk/erdp/schemes/es/default.htm