HEF6
HEF6: Manage historic and archaeological features on grassland
£55.00
info Summary
Manage grassland covering historic or archaeological features to maintain a well-managed, intact grass sward or vegetation throughout the year, protecting the features and conserving landscape character.
format_list_bulleted What to do
Manage the area to maintain a continuous grass sward over the historic or archaeological feature, minimizing bare ground and weeds. You must not plough, cultivate, re-seed, harrow, or roll the grassland. Supplementary feeding and new vehicle or stock access routes are prohibited within 6m of the feature. Relevant consents must be obtained before removing scrub or trees.
schedule When to do
This action must be carried out continuously from the start date throughout the 5-year duration of the agreement.
checklist How to do
The method is flexible, provided you follow the mandatory requirements and work towards achieving the action's aim.
description Evidence Required
You must keep evidence to show what you’ve done to complete this action, such as:
- field operations at a land parcel level and associated invoices
- photographs or other documentation
If it’s not clear that you’ve done this action in a way that could reasonably be expected to achieve its aim, we may ask for this evidence. You must supply the evidence if we ask for it.
tips_and_updates Additional Advice
Advice suggests managing the grassland by grazing with livestock or cutting. Capital grants may be available for items like fencing. It is recommended to manage livestock to avoid overgrazing or undergrazing, use lighter animals to reduce damage, and take care when mowing, applying manure, or controlling deep-rooted plants and scrub to protect the features.
View Official Guidelines
Access detailed information about this action on the RPA website
SFI 2026 Announcement
Read details about SFI 2026 changes, definitions, and what to expect on the Defra farming blog