New Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier funding opportunities announced
Defra has announced that farmers and land managers can now express their interest in two further new Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) options.
The new options are for traditional orchards and for wet grassland for wintering waders and wildfowl, expanding the number of simplified 'single-focus' agreements available via the scheme.
Single-focus agreements were introduced in July 2026, read our previous article 'Thinking About Higher Tier?'. They provide farmers and land managers with a simpler route into Higher Tier payments as they focus on one specific environmental priority rather than a broader mix of land management actions.
The new options bring the total number of single-focus options up to four:
Traditional orchards – to support the management of these important habitats.
Wet grassland for wintering waders and wildfowl – to support suitable wet grassland habitats for wintering birds.
Species-rich grassland – to support the management of priority grassland habitats.
Scheduled monuments – to support the management and protection of these important historic features.
Over 1,100 expressions of interest have been received for single-focus agreements since they were introduced, according to Defra.
Who can apply?
Both new options are now open for expression of interest, subject to eligibility criteria.
Farmers and land managers who would like to apply are urged to read the CSHT applicant's guide to ensure their land is eligible for the relevant action.
There are some important caveats, particularly for those already progressing their application for a Higher Tier agreement or who already have an active Higher Tier agreement.
Applicants are also reminded to check that their contact and permission details are correct in the Rural Payments service.
Applicants will need to make a separate expression of interest for each of the single-focus topics.
What's next?
Applicants will be contacted by Natural England (for all but scheduled monuments) within 10 weeks of their application, to discuss the next steps, which may include a site visit or further advice.
Making an expression of interest does not guarantee that an agreement or funding will be secured.
Defra has also confirmed that expressions of interest are still open for woodland improvement and agroforestry agreements, and further additions to the wider CSHT offer are planned.
Find out more and express an interest
For full eligibility criteria, application guidance and to express your interest, go to:
Members are advised to read the guidance carefully before expressing their interest.
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