Many farmers in GLAS are already set to be hit with significant penalties over non-compliance with one of the schemes key terms and conditions.
A number of GLAS planners are reporting that one of the requirements of the most popular GLAS task, Low Input Permanent Pasture, is not being fulfilled by a high number of farmers.
The problem centers around a rule which sets out that parcels of land cannot be topped between March 15 and the July 15 annually.
Farmers are reminded not to top land under low input permanent pasture during this period. Failure to do so could see farmers lose out on significant payments.
Under the measure, farmers receive a significant payment of €340/ha.
The Department of Agriculture is currently carrying out unannounced inspections of farmers in GLAS. Under the Farmers Charter, 5% of active participants in the scheme will be inspected.
Traditional Hay Meadow
Another key deadline farmers in GLAS need to be aware of is the date when they can cut their Traditional Hay Meadows.
Grazing cannot take place from the April 15 until the meadow is mown annually which
must be after the July 1 annually.
Topping cannot take place from the March 15 until after the meadow is mown annually.
Where, because of bad weather or for other reasons, hay cannot be saved, silage
can be made, provided that it is turned at least twice before collecting.
This is important for the participant to ensure that the seeds are spread and that the meadow continues to have the required diversity of species throughout the 5 year GLAS contract.