The Land Management Contracts (Menu Scheme) (Scotland) Regulations 2005

PART I THE STANDARDS OF GOOD FARMING PRACTICE INCLUDING GOOD ANIMAL HUSBANDRY

1.  On rough grazings, unimproved grassland, reverted improved grassland, machair and dune grassland, wetlands and native, amenity or semi natural woodlands, livestock must be managed to avoid either overgrazing or undergrazing. Where the Scottish Ministers form the opinion that land was being overgrazed, a management regime including a maximum (and, where appropriate, a minimum) stocking rate to be observed on that site will be prescribed. The removal or clearance of drystone or flagstone dykes or walls, hedges and hedgerow trees will not be permitted except with the prior written approval of the Scottish Ministers. Records shall be maintained by the applicant showing that this approval has been obtained.

2.  Trimming of hedges and hedgerows must not be carried out between 1st March and 31st July.

3.  Where it is intended to undertake any operation on the land that is likely to damage any Site of Special Scientific Interest, designated pursuant to section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981(1), the prior approval of Scottish Natural Heritage must be obtained. Records shall be maintained by the applicant showing that this approval has been obtained.

4.  If a new silage or slurry storage facility is constructed on the land, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency must be notified before it is used. Records showing that this notification has been given must be maintained by the applicant.

5.  Prior authorisation must be obtained from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency before any sheep dip is disposed of on the land. Records showing that this authorisation has been obtained, and records detailing the manner of disposal of the sheep dip, shall be maintained by the applicant.

6.  Prior authorisation must be obtained from the Forestry Commission before the felling of any trees on the land. Records shall be maintained by the applicant showing that this approval has been obtained.

7.  Animals must not be caused any unnecessary pain or suffering and must be inspected at regular intervals. Animals kept in buildings must have access to a well maintained drying area. Animal buildings must be constructed in such a way that will not be harmful to animals. Where necessary artificial light must be provided and animals must not be kept without an appropriate rest from artificial light. Animals must be fed a diet of sufficient quality and quantity to maintain them in good health and to satisfy their nutritional needs. All animals must have access to feed at appropriate intervals (at least once a day) and a suitable water supply or be able to satisfy their fluid intake needs by other means. Animals must not have their movement restricted in such a way as to cause them unnecessary suffering or injury.

8.  Only those persons who have the appropriate ability, knowledge and professional competence may attend to animals.

9.  Ill or injured animals must be cared for appropriately and without delay and, where necessary, veterinary advice must be obtained as soon as possible. Records must be maintained and retained by the applicant for 3 years of all medicinal treatment given to animals and of all mortalities.

(1)

1981 c. 69.