The prohibited period for grazing traditional hay meadows under the Green Low Carbon Agri-Environmental Scheme (GLAS) came into effect this week.

Grazing is not permitted from Thursday 15 April until after the meadow is mown annually, which must be after 1 July.

The maximum application of chemical nitrogen over the year is 40kg per annum or 32 units per acre.

The maximum level of chemical phosphorus allowable is determined by soil samples governing the nutrient management plan.

Weed wiping and/or spot spraying can take place between 15 March and when the meadow is mown annually to control rushes. However, topping cannot take place between these dates.

LIPP requirements

While on the topic, it is worth recapping on the requirements on the main measure selected by participants under GLAS – low input permanent pasture (LIPP).

These parcels have a similar chemical fertiliser threshold of 40kg nitrogen per hectare (32 units per acre).

Parcels also cannot be topped during the same time frame as traditional hay meadows (15 March to 1 July).

Pesticides are also not permitted, with the exception of controlling noxious weeds and invasive species and rushes.

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