Entry Level Stewardship aims to encourage large numbers of farmers and land managers (hereafter referred to as 'applicants') across England to deliver simple yet effective environmental management that goes beyond the Single Payment Scheme (SPS) requirement to maintain land in Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition.
The scheme is non-competitive and payments awarded if the threshold 30 points per hectare is achieved when averaged over the farm.
If they agree to deliver enough ELS options to meet their points target they will be guaranteed entry into the scheme.
In applying for, and being accepted into, ELS they agree to: a) identify, map and retain their FER features; b) deliver the options selected in their application form in accordance with the management requirements; and c) adhere to all the scheme terms and conditions contained in the ELS handbook, and in particular to follow Good Farming Practice throughout their farm, and to comply with the other additional requirements.
Anyone who owns, farms or manages agricultural land can apply to take out an ELS agreement by contacting the appropriate regional office of Natural England by letter or phone.
Unlike ELS it also offers grants for capital works, such as the restoration of traditional farm buildings.
There was a delay in the launch of HLS as a result of problems with the department's computer system, "Genesis", built by Atos Origin.
The payment received for HLS agreements is dependent on the precise options chosen, rather than a flat rate.