Free hay meadow surveys for farmers.

FARMS in Weardale are being offered free surveys of their hay meadows as part of a project that could result in higher stewardship payments for those taking part.

The North Pennines AONB Partnership is keen to hear from farmers who are interested in having a botanical report carried out during June or early July.

Hay Time project officer Fiona Corby said: "Once we have surveyed their meadows, farmers with species-rich fields may be able to sell hay or seed for use in reseeding other meadows that we are restoring through the project.

"Farmers with meadows that are suitable for restoration may be able to gain access to higher payments through agri-environment schemes such as Higher Level Stewardship." The surveys can only be carried out during early summer before the meadow is cut. Seed from meadows where there is a high number of different types of grass will then be transferred to neighbouring meadows that farmers are keen to restore.

The project, which started in 2006 and will run until 2012, aims to provide help and advice to farmers and land managers on enhancing and restoring upland hay meadows. The team provides management advice and reinstates lost habitat features in addition to reseeding meadows.

Anyone interested can contact Ian Craft or Fiona Corby on [phone] or email [e-mail].

CAPTION(S):

ACT NOW Meadow reports must be carried out during early summer.