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Higher Tier for Woodlands – What we know so far

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Marta Gibbons

Farm Environment Adviser

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Disclaimer: Information Accurate as of 28.01.26

Due to various factors, the RPA are behind with the number of Higher Tier schemes currently being approved and live in the system. For now, landowners can only apply if they were invited to do so and completed a pre-application form, choosing actions aligned to those in your WMP (Woodland Management Plan). There is still no update on the scheme opening to all.

Applications which include FY6 ‘Restore Coppicing in Woodland’ are currently on hold due to issues around quotes.

If you wish to be considered for a Higher Tier Woodland Scheme, and to perhaps make up any potential shortfalls with the approaching changes to SFI, or to apply when the scheme opens fully you must have an approved WMP and Deer Management Plan in place. Stand alone capital grants are available to help fully or partly cover adviser cost of producing them depending on the size of your woodland. These grants can be accessed and completed by the Norfolk FWAG team.

Get in touch to understand the grants available to you., and begin progressing to a Woodland Higher Tier.

This article was created by Marta Gibbons, Farm Environment Advisor, and Norfolk FWAG’s lead-woodland advisor, based on progress of Higher Tier woodland schemes developed here at Norfolk FWAG and through conversations with various stakeholders.