SFS Optional: Habitat Review: general guidance

What is the Habitat Review

The Habitat Review is a Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) Optional category available to farmers who have claimed the SFS Universal Layer.

It provides specialist support to help you identify opportunities to improve, restore or create habitats on your farm while continuing food production. The review will help develop a practical plan that delivers benefits for your business and the environment.

You can apply if

• you have submitted an SFS Universal Layer claim through the Single Application Form (SAF)
• the land is under your management control
• the land is eligible for the SFS Universal Layer

Land on designated sites, common land (except sole-grazed commons registered with Rural Payments Wales (RPW)) and shared grazing land cannot be included in the Habitat Review.

How do I apply

Applications are made through the SFS Optional dashboard in your RPW Online account. 

Applications are scored and selected. Not all applications will receive an immediate visit, but unsuccessful applications can be considered in future selection rounds. 

What happens during the Habitat Review

A Field Support Officer (FSO) will:

• carry out a whole-farm assessment
• review and classify habitats on your farm
• assess habitat condition and environmental features
• identify opportunities to improve existing habitats
• explore options to create new habitats and support biodiversity
• identify any capital works that may be needed

The review also provides an opportunity to discuss wider SFS requirements and opportunities available through the scheme.  

What will I receive

Following the visit, the FSO will prepare:

• a five-year habitat review management plan
• a schedule of works
• updated SFS maps where required

The management plan and schedule of works will set out recommended management actions and capital works that could be carried out on your farm to improve environmental outcomes. 

What types of actions could be included

The Habitat Review may identify opportunities such as:

• enhanced management of existing habitats
• restoration of grassland, heathland, wetlands or hedgerows
• creation of ponds, habitats and wildlife corridors
• species-focused management
• capital works such as fencing, gates, scrub management or water management infrastructure

Do I have to carry out the work

No. Accepting a habitat review management plan and schedule of works does not require you to undertake any of the recommended work. However, if you wish to carry out actions and receive payments, you will need to apply for the SFS Optional: habitat actions grant support when it becomes available.

Important things to know

• a Habitat Review does not provide funding itself. It is the first step in identifying and planning environmental improvements that may be eligible for future SFS Optional funding
• any previously undeclared habitat identified during the review may be added to your SFS maps and included within your SFS Universal Layer claims going forward 
• you will have 21 calendar days to accept your management plan and schedule of works once they are issued
• accepted plans remain valid for five years 
• permits, licences or consents may be required for some actions and remain your responsibility to obtain 

This guidance is for SFS Universal Layer Claimants only. 

The SFS is a whole farm scheme. It includes a Universal Layer, containing a set of Universal Actions (UAs) which generate a Universal Payment.

Additional SFS payments are available in the Optional Layer if you want to go above and beyond the Universal Layer.

The Optional Layer consists of different ‘categories’, each of which contains a series of individual items or actions to choose from.

Habitat Review is an SFS Optional category that allows you to request specialist support to identify farm specific enhancement or creation of habitats to benefit nature alongside food production. 

This may involve improving the quality, extent, or connectivity of habitats depending on the priorities of the specific area. The Habitat Review process is required as the long-term nature of habitat management and creation requires consideration of factors such as soil conditions, water tables, priority species, wider landscapes, as well as current farming practice and priorities.   

The aim of the Habitat Review is to work collaboratively with you to recognise the environmental value of your farm, identify opportunities, and to develop a practical plan that delivers benefits for both the farm business and the environment. 

A Field Support Officer (FSO) will review existing habitats, visit the farm and work with you to produce a five-year habitat review management plan and schedule of works. The aim is to identify appropriate actions that improve habitat condition, support habitat creation where appropriate and deliver environmental outcomes beyond the SFS Universal requirements It may also act as an opportunity for you to discuss wider SFS requirements, such as the 10% habitat requirement or habitat management under the SFS Universal Layer. 

This guidance document explains the SFS Optional: Habitat Review (referred to as the "Habitat Review" throughout this document) process, site visit and resultant habitat review management plan and schedule of works, and specifically applies to habitat land outside of designated sites (e.g. Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI))   

Additional guidance will be available at a later date to accompany the opening of applications for SFS Optional: habitat actions to carry out the management and capital actions included in the resultant habitat review management plan and schedule of works. That guidance will also include details of the grant award process as well as the terms and conditions for payment.

Please read this guidance document carefully before you apply for a Habitat Review. 

The application will be available from 27 August 2026.

Any changes will be publicised via our website, Gwlad and, where necessary, we will contact you directly.

We (Welsh Government) want to work with businesses and organisations who are proud of their reputation, what they deliver and their conduct. The following link will direct you to guidance which is designed to highlight and clarify the types of behaviours, cultures and values we expect to see ‘lived out’ by our grant recipients.

Welsh Government expectations of grant recipients.

You will be considered eligible to apply for a Habitat Review if you have submitted an SFS Universal Layer claim on the SAF.

Applications will only be considered for selection once eligibility for the SFS Universal Layer has been confirmed.

Land eligibility 

Eligible land claimed for the SFS Universal Layer on your latest SAF, and any additional land acquired after the SAF submission date, which has been notified to RPW via a Manage My Land application prior to you submitting the request for a Habitat Review will be eligible to be included. You must have management control of the land for it to be included.

For land to be eligible for a grant award after the Habitat Review, the land must be under your management control for the full term of the grant award.

The following land is not eligible to form part of the Habitat Review; 

• land covered by a designated site
• common land (except sole grazed commons registered with RPW) and land used in common/shared grazing land

The purpose of the Habitat Review is to provide a gateway for you to access funding for enhanced management of existing habitat, restoration of habitats, the creation of new habitat and undertaking arable management actions designed to support biodiversity.

You can request a Habitat Review via the SFS Optional Dashboard on your RPW Online account. Your application will then be subject to a scoring and selection process, to prioritise holdings that can best contribute towards the environmental objectives.

A Habitat Review visit will be undertaken by a Field Support Officer (FSO). The visit will involve an assessment of the whole farm and its purpose is to: 

1. Check the classification of habitat land on the farm being managed for the SFS Universal Layer and assess the condition of the habitat. A more detailed habitat classification assessment will be part of the Habitat Review. For example, Universal Habitat classification ‘Enclosed semi-nature dry grassland’ would be amended to one of the following: 
    
   • neutral grassland 
   • lowland acid grassland
   • calcareous grassland
   • coastal grassland 
   • calaminarian grassland 
   • floodplain meadow 

   • limestone pavement
     
     Further details of the detailed habitat classifications can be found at Annex A.   
     
     The detailed habitat classification in combination with the assessment of habitat condition will be used to identify the most appropriate management action for the habitat. 

     Please note: any areas of habitat which were not previously declared for the SFS Universal Layer and are subsequently identified as part of the Habitat Review will be mapped onto RPW systems and form part of the SFS Universal Layer in future years. 

2. Assess all the agriculturally improved land for opportunities to enhance biodiversity on the farm. 
    
3. Identify appropriate management actions and capital works, to best deliver environmental outcomes on your farm.

Habitat Review management actions 

There are approximately 80 management actions which have been designed to address biodiversity objectives. The management actions available to you will depend on the nature of the land on your farm (e.g. how much habitat land you have) and the farming practices that can be undertaken on the holding. For example, whether you grow crops or have cattle that can be used to graze habitat land. 

There are a range of management actions available. Each habitat classification has an associated management action and there are arable management actions and actions covering the creation or restoration of habitats. The types of action available to you may include:

• habitat management actions for heathland, grassland and woodland. For example, haymeadow reversion to increase grassland species diversity, and provide foraging areas and sanctuary for bees and other invertebrates
• supplementary management actions that support additional enhancement of habitat e.g. grazing with heavy stock or raising water levels

Only management actions that deliver Sustainable Land Management objectives, specifically for biodiversity identified on your farm and agreed by a FSO can be included in a habitat review management plan and schedule of works. 

Management actions are paid on a per hectare basis in the main, and each action has a separate payment rate. A list of the management actions and their payment rates are available at Annex B.

The management actions and their requirements are set out in Habitat Review: technical guidance – management actions.

In certain circumstances, permits, licences or consent may be required before undertaking and claiming for management actions. It will be your responsibility to obtain any permits, licences or consents needed. Your FSO will discuss this with you during the Habitat Review visit. 

Habitat Review capital works 

There are approximately 160 capital works items available via a habitat review management plan, which are available to support management actions or environmental objectives. The types of capital works include: 

• infrastructure works such as permanent fencing and gates – intended to support and manage livestock grazing for specific habitat enhancing management actions or to benefit environmental features 
• vegetation management such as rhododendron control or scrub clearance – intended to increase biodiversity
• pond creation for biodiversity purposes
• arable actions such as unsprayed spring sown cereals or wildlife cover crops. These actions, for example, are intended to provide food and cover for farmland birds or support rare arable plants

Capital works can only be included in a habitat review management plan and schedule of works where they contribute to biodiversity objectives (e.g. habitat management or actions to support priority native species) identified on your farm and agreed by a FSO. Capital works cannot be used to support SFS Universal Layer requirements. They can only be included where they support actions that exceed or are in addition to those in the Universal Layer.

A list of capitals works items and their payment rates are available at Annex C.

The capital works requirements are set out in Habitat Review: technical guidance – capital works.

A Habitat Review does not include capital works for woodland management.  Funding for woodland creation and woodland management are available through other Optional Layer categories.    

In certain circumstances, permits, lisences or consent may be required before undertaking and claiming for capital works items. It will be your responsibility to obtain any permits, lisences, or consents needed.   

Management plan and schedule of works 

Once the detailed habitat classifications, proposed management actions and capital works items have been agreed with you, your FSO will develop a habitat review management plan and schedule of works. 

Once you have accepted your habitat review management plan and schedule of works it will be valid for five years. There is no requirement to undertake the work within the management plan and schedule of works after accepting it.   

If you wish to implement and receive payments for part or all of your management plan and schedule of works you will need to apply for the SFS Optional: Habitat Actions grant support.

Packages of work

Your management plan and schedule of works will include packages of works. 

A package is a collection of items and/or actions aimed at delivering specific environment outcomes on your farm. Some packages may consist of a single item or action, such as restoring a pond or the enhanced management of a habitat (e.g. through more grazing etc). Others may include several linked actions and/or items that all need to be completed to achieve the desired outcome. Packages are generally land parcel based and a parcel could contain more than one package.

Where there are linked actions or items these will be shown in the schedule of works. Linked items or actions included in a package will also have to be undertaken in a specific sequence. For example, a fence may be needed before an area can be stock excluded. 

The payment for certain management actions and/or capital works may be dependent on the completion of other linked management actions and/or capital works.

Mandatory, main and optional actions or items

Packages can contain a range of different actions or items and these will be classed as mandatory, main and optional.  These are defined as follows: 

• mandatory: these are actions or items that are critical to the package and are needed to achieve the biodiversity objectives 
• main: each package will contain a main action or item, which is also likely to be a mandatory part of the package. They are also most likely to deliver the environmental objective of the package. In most instances it is expected that the main action or item will be a management action
• optional: these items are not critical to the package and may be needed to support the delivery of mandatory actions or items. They will provide additional benefits but are not essential

Examples of packages:

Package 1: habitat management

An area of unfenced habitat on the farm requires management including grazing and management of scrub that is encroaching into the habitat. The package would include: 

1. fencing and a gate: which would need to be completed first and would be a ‘mandatory’ item. It would also be linked to the management action which requires specific grazing management
2. enhanced management action: this would include specific grazing requirements; it covers land management requirements over a calendar year and would start in the year following the installation of the fence. This would be the ‘main’ action and would also be ‘mandatory'
3. scrub clearance: this would be a ‘mandatory’ capital work item. The work may be phased over a period of time. e.g. small areas of scrub removed each year over a three-year period

In this example, there are mandatory and main actions/items. It would therefore be a requirement that all the works listed would need to be undertaken to receive funding. 

Package 2: streamside corridor

The on-farm assessment has identified that a streamside corridor would be beneficial next to a river. The package may include:

1. fencing and a gate: which would need to be completed first and would be a ‘mandatory’ item so that an area next to the river could be stock excluded
2. streamside management action: this would include a stock exclusion requirement, and would start in the year following the installation of the fence. This would be the ‘main’ action and would also be ‘mandatory’
3. water trough and pipe: this would be an optional capital works item. As this item is optional you can choose whether to undertake the work as part of the package 

This package contains a mandatory main action and as well as mandatory and optional capital works items. 

Package 3: hedgerow restoration 

A length of hedgerow is identified as needing restoration on the farm. This package would include:

1. hedge laying: this would be the ‘mandatory main’ item of the project. The hedge would need to be laid before any other items in the package could be funded 
2. fencing: fencing would be required on either side of the hedgerow to protect new growth from being grazed. The fencing would be a ‘mandatory ’ item and would therefore be a requirement of the package 
3. gate: If a new gate is needed in an existing gateway, as it is not needed to protect the hedgerow it would be an optional item. You could choose whether to include and install the gate as part of the package

This package contains mandatory main and optional items. 

Package 4: upland unenclosed habitat mosaic

A farm has a large upland block containing a mosaic of habitats. All the boundaries are fenced and stock proof. 

1. habitat mosaic enhanced management action: this would be the main mandatory action aimed at improving the condition of the habitat
2. supplementary action: grazing with heavy stock: this would be a supplementary mandatory management action for grazing the field parcel with cattle

In this example, the package does not contain any capital works. Both management actions are mandatory and would therefore be a requirement of the package.  Both management actions could also start in year 1 of the package as there are no capital works needed to support their implementation. 

Prioritising packages

During a farm visit, the FSO will identify and discuss potential packages with you. Together, these packages will be prioritised according to the environmental benefits they are expected to deliver.

When applying for funding, higher-priority packages must be implemented before funding can be sought for lower-priority packages. For example, all priority 1 packages would need to be implemented before applying for priority 2 packages.

Relationship with other future SFS Optional Layer categories  

Where management actions and capital works are included in your management plan and schedule of works we will expect them to be delivered via the SFS Optional: Habitat actions grant support.

Where you want to carry out additional actions, for example temporary habitat and capital works such as hedgerow restoration, you can apply to the SFS Optional: Temporary Habitat and SFS Optional: Capital Environment categories. 

Funding from other sources 

Details of the relationship between the Habitat Review and land receiving funding from other sources are set out below:

Organic Conversion Scheme, SFS Optional: Organic Conversion and SFS Optional: Organic Farming – Support 

Land entered into the above grant support can be included in a Habitat Review, however, you may be required to undertake certain management actions which make land ineligible for support in the future. 

Woodland Creation schemes 

Land under an existing grant award or application for the following woodland creation schemes will not be eligible to form part of your Habitat Review:

• Glastir Woodland Creation
• Woodland Creation Grant 
• Small Grants – Woodland Creation
• SFS Optional: Small Woodland Creation Grant, or 
• SFS Optional: Woodland Creation Grant

Ancient Monument management agreements

Scheduled Ancient Monuments and other land covered by a CADW management agreement may not be eligible to form part of your Habitat Review. 

Other sources of funding 

There may be other circumstances where land receiving funding from another source, for example as part of a Ffermio Bro or Integrated Natural Resources Scheme or other agreement may be excluded from the Habitat Review. Your FSO will discuss this with you during your farm visit. 

RPW Online

You can only complete an application for the SFS Optional: Habitat Review by accessing RPW Online.  

Further details regarding RPW Online are available on our website. 

Agents acting on your behalf will need to register as an RPW agent. Guidance on how to do this is available on  our website. RPW Online guidance for agents and farming unions.

Submitting an application

The SFS Optional: Habitat Review application is available through the SFS Optional Layer dashboard, which can be accessed through the SFS tab on your RPW Online home page.

Whilst the application is available, you can apply at any time. 

The application has an introduction which you should read, and this directs you to the Customer Contact Centre if you have any queries. You must then tick the box to indicate that you wish to request a Habitat Review, tick to confirm you have read and understood the declarations and undertakings, and then submit the application.

Withdrawal of applications

Once you have submitted an application for a Habitat Review you can withdraw your application at any time. You can do this via ‘My Messages’ in your RPW Online account. 

If you withdraw from the Habitat Review process after you have been offered a habitat review management plan and schedule of works, you will be ineligible to apply for another Habitat Review for 12 months. 

Scoring and selection 

The scoring and selection process provides a consistent method for identifying and prioritising land parcels based on the habitats, species and features present. Scores are used to support the selection of holdings that can contribute towards the environmental outcomes identified through the Habitat Review.

Each field parcel of land  under your management control and claimed for the SFS Universal Layer on your latest SAF will receive a score based on the layer/s applicable to that field parcel

The scores will be calculated as follows:

• 1 point per layer for each habitat, species or feature present on the farm. The number of layers that intersect within the parcels will be added together 
• apply multiplier x 10 if any on priority habitat map layer
• apply multiplier x 5 if in SSSI 500m buffer 

The layers being used for the score calculation are detailed below:

• orchard
• parkland and wood pasture
• lowland calcareous grassland
• calaminarian grassland
• lowland grassland (acidic, neutral & marshy)
• lowland heathland
• upland heath (outer)
• upland calcareous grassland
• montane heath
• rock ledge and scree
• coasts
• lake
• river
• pond
• ditch
• wetland (upland and lowland bog & fen)
• great crested newt
• chough (targeted management)
• curlew (targeted management)
• lapwing (targeted management)
• red grouse (targeted management)
• ring ouzel (targeted management)
• marsh fritillary - post 1990
• gwyniad
• freshwater pearl mussel
• barbastelle bat
• greater horseshoe bat
• lesser horseshoe bat
• water vole
• grassland fungi
• brown banded carder bee
• arable plants
• artic/alpine plants
• lesser butterfly orchid
• upland juniper
• heathland plants
• ffridd
• peatland restoration

Multiplier layers

• priority habitat map
• SSSI 500m buffer

Once the field parcel scores are determined, the system will automatically calculate the application score by dividing the total layer score by the area of the holding.

If a claim was made for Habitat Wales Scheme 2025 an additional weighting will be added of 1000 points.

For example, a 70ha farm intersects with 10 layers = 10 points x 10 (as some on priority habitat layer) = 100 x 5 (is within SSSI buffer layer) = 500 divided by 70 (holding size) = 7.14 plus 1000 as claimed Habitat Wales Scheme 2025 = 1007.14

All applications will be scored and ranked. A threshold score will be set based on the highest scoring applications. 

The highest ranked applications will be selected first.

To allow for a pilot to be run to trial the Habitat Review process, a small number of   applications will be selected in the first selection, which will be run during the week commencing 14 September 2026.

The next selection is due to be run in February 2027, and thereafter selections will be run approximately every 2 months.

If your application is selected, you will be contacted to arrange a visit to your farm for the Habitat Review to be carried out.

If your application is not selected, you will be informed via your RPW Online account, and your application will be considered for the next selection. If you do not wish to have the application considered in a future selection, you may withdraw your application and apply again at a later date.

The Habitat Review is a whole farm assessment and is designed to identify opportunities for enhanced environmental management which will support habitats, priority species or other environmental features, e.g. water features.

The visit is undertaken by a Field Support Officer (FSO) who will contact you in advance of the visit to arrange a convenient time to assess the farm. 

Before the visit

In preparation for the visit, an FSO will carry out a desk-based assessment using available information such as aerial photographs, satellite imagery, RPW maps showing the location of habitat, species and opportunities for environmental management, land declarations and other relevant records. This preparation will give an understanding of the habitat and environmental features that may be found on the farm and will be used to identify possible management actions and capital works that could support habitats and species. It helps prepare for the visit and identify areas that may need to be assessed further during the visit.

During the farm visit

The Habitat Review will involve a walkover survey of all eligible land within your management control. This means that all areas of habitat and improved land on the holding may need to be visited, including more remote locations. Depending on the size and complexity of your holding, more than one visit may be required.

During the visit, the FSO will:

• discuss current farming and land management practices with you
• identify and verify the types of habitats present on the farm
• assess the condition of existing habitats
• identify opportunities to improve existing habitats
• assess the condition of environmental features (e.g. hedgerows and ponds) and identify opportunities to restore or manage them 
• explore options for creating new habitats where appropriate
• assess whether capital works may be needed to support habitat management

Habitat types that may be assessed

Habitat identification will be based on field observations, including the presence of key indicator plant species and the extent of agricultural species within a habitat. The review may include habitats such as:

• semi-natural broadleaved woodland
• scrub
• parkland and wood pasture
• traditional orchards
• unimproved grasslands, including neutral, calcareous, acid and marshy grasslands
• floodplain habitats
• heathland
• flushes and fens
• reedbeds
• raised and blanket bogs
• coastal habitats such as sand dunes, saltmarsh, coastal grassland and shingle
• limestone pavement
• natural water features such as rivers, lakes and ponds

The habitat classifications used as part of the Habitat Review are more detailed and contain additional habitat classifications to those used as part of the SFS Universal Layer. 

There are 31 different habitat classifications that can be used as part of the Habitat Review.  

Areas already declared as habitat for the SFS Universal Layer will need to be reviewed and may be given a new habitat classification. Any new habitat classification used will show on your SFS maps. 

However, SFS Universal Layer management requirements that need to be adhered to will not change until you have entered into a grant award to undertake optional management actions on these areas of habitat.   

Additional or re-classified habitat land 

There may be circumstances where the Habitat Review finds additional habitat or incorrectly classified habitat during the visit. Any new habitat found will be mapped and form part of the SFS Universal layer. Where habitats have been incorrectly classified, these will also be amended. 

Undeclared habitat land, or woodland greater than or equal to 0.1 hectares

Where areas of land declared as habitat and/or woodland for the SFS Universal Layer are identified as not being present and/or not being managed as habitat land, sanctions may apply in accordance with the published SFS Universal Layer verifiable standards and sanctions matrix. 

Assessing habitat condition

The FSO will assess the overall condition of habitats and discuss factors that may be affecting them, including:

• grazing levels (whether habitats are under or over-utilised)
• encroachment by scrub or undesirable vegetation
• invasive non-native species
• water management and drainage issues
• other factors that influence habitat quality

The assessment of the condition of the habitat will help to identify appropriate management actions for the habitat as well as any capital works that may be required. For example, there may be a need for an additional stock reduction or an increase in the stocking levels for a limited period. Fencing may also be required to control livestock. Where there is scrub encroachment or bracken on habitat land, capital works may be appropriate to cut and manage these areas. 

Exploring additional opportunities

The visit will also consider wider opportunities to enhance environmental outcomes across the farm, including:

• creating new temporary habitats. For example, these may include unsprayed cereals, fallow margins, and rough grass margins
• creating new permanent habitats. For example, this could include the conversion of improved land to habitat through reduced inputs or installing streamside corridors next to rivers
• identifying suitable locations for hedgerow management or creation
• management actions to benefit priority species, e.g. lapwing and curlew
• adding additional features such as ponds and tree planting
• improving habitat connectivity between existing habitat areas by creating new habitats as outlined above
• exploring other environmental opportunities available through the SFS

After the visit

The findings from the review will be discussed with you and management actions and capital works agreed where appropriate. This will all feed into and be captured within the habitat review management plan and schedule of works. These will be based on the most up to date field parcels for the business. Any changes to field parcels, or additional parcels notified via a Manage My Land will be taken into account when finalising the plan.

Advice and guidance

A key part of the visit will be providing advice and support. The FSO will discuss habitat management actions and help you understand the funding and support available through the SFS, including opportunities that may be available through other SFS Optional Layer categories.

Your Habitat Review farm visit will result in the following documents being produced:

• a management plan describing the key features found on the farm and the main aims and ambitions for habitat management on your farm 
• a schedule of works listing the agreed management actions and capital works items
• your SFS map will be updated showing the location of management actions and capital works items

Your management plan and schedule of works will be made available for you to accept or decline on your RPW Online account. When your habitat review management plan and schedule of works is ready to be reviewed, you will be notified. 

There will be a notification shown in ‘My Messages’ when accessing your RPW Online Account.

You can access your management plan and schedule of works through the 'Plans' tab on your RPW Online home page, ‘Habitat Review Plan Register’ will appear in the drop-down list under this tab. 

You will be able to review the actions agreed on your SFS map, the schedule of works and the management plan under the relevant tabs on the register.

If you are content with everything you can confirm your acceptance of the plan, or if there are changes that need to be made you can select to return the plan to the Field Support Officer (FSO) for reconsideration. A text box will be available for you to provide your reasons for returning the plan.

You must accept your management plan and schedule of works within 21 calendar days of the date it is made available via your RPW Online account. 

If you select to return your management plan and schedule of works to the FSO, then the 21 calendar days to accept will start again once the revised documents are made available to you. 

If you do not accept your management plan and schedule of works within the 21 calendar days or decide that you do not wish to continue with the plan you will be ineligible to apply for another Habitat Review for 12 months.

Once you accept your management plan and schedule of works it will be valid for five years. 

Where you take on additional land after you have received your habitat review management plan and schedule of works or if you wish to apply for a subsequent Habitat Review, those who have not previously been offered a management plan and schedule of works will be prioritised in the selection process. 

You will be able to apply for grant support to implement your management plan and schedule of works under the SFS Optional: habitat actions grant funding. You will be able to apply via your SFS Optional dashboard.

Guidance relevant to the grant support will be published on our website ahead of SFS Optional: habitat actions opening for applications. 

In cases where a whole holding is being transferred, the habitat review management plan and schedule of works can be transferred if the farm business which is assuming control of the land agrees to do so. We will not accept the transfer of part of a management plan and schedule of works.  

If you sell or transfer land without the other farm business agreeing to take over the existing management plan and schedule of works it will be withdrawn.  

Exceptional circumstances are defined as unusual circumstances which are outside the control of the applicant or agreement holder, were unforeseen and could not be avoided, despite all due care and except at the cost of excessive sacrifice on their part. Examples that may be recognised include: 

• natural events, such as prolonged adverse weather conditions, flooding, or animal or plant disease
• serious illness, injury or death affecting the business
• unforeseen loss of management control of land, for example where a tenancy is terminated or because of compulsory purchase
• financial circumstances such as bankruptcy
• evidenced supply chain problems
• criminal damage by a third party, such as arson or vandalism 

For Welsh Government to consider and accept an event as exceptional circumstances, details must be received in writing within 60 days of the applicant or agreement holder, or someone acting on their behalf, being in a position to do so.  

An event may directly affect just one member of a farm business or organisation, however, it should be explained how the events impacted on the ability of everyone in the business or organisation as a whole to meet their obligations. Additional documentary evidence may be requested and should be provided as appropriate.  

The exceptional circumstances provision is available in respect of:

• late submission of an application or claim
• late notification of supporting documentation in respect of an application or claim  
• the right to payment in respect of certain eligible areas declared on an application or claim but no longer available to the applicant or agreement holder because of an exceptional circumstances event 
• the inability to comply with requirements, including eligibility conditions
• penalties applied to claims. The requirement for partial or full re-imbursement of payments received

Each notification will be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis.  

Welsh Government officials, individuals or organisations carrying out duties on behalf of Welsh Government, should not be subjected to aggressive, abusive or offensive behaviour or unreasonable demands and persistence from applicants or agreement holders or their representatives. This also applies to members of the Independent Appeals Panel.

Managing unacceptable behaviour of Welsh Government customers explains what we consider unacceptable behaviour. 

Unacceptable behaviour may lead to the withdrawal of payments and/or the rejection of applications or claims

Legislation changes (including changes in interpretation)

The rules for support under the SFS Optional Layer are based on the Agriculture (Wales) Act 2023 and the Agriculture Support Schemes (Eligibility, Enforcement and Appeals) (Wales) Regulations 2025 No. 1308 (W219).

Legislation may change from time to time, and you will be required to abide by any changes to the scheme rules, following notification from Welsh Government. 

Changes to rules

 We may need to make changes to the rules and/or your management plan and schedule of works for a number of reasons. For example, we may need to update the management conditions to take account of the latest scientific advice or amend rules to take account of any changes to legislation. We will publicise changes on the our website and, where necessary, contact you directly.

There are no grounds to appeal at application stage and during the development of your management plan and schedule of works

The Independent Appeals Process for Rural Grants and Payments will be available once you have accepted a SFS Optional: Habitat actions grant award to implement your management plan and schedule of works.  

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Complaints will be dealt with under Welsh Government’s procedure on complaints. Further advice on how to make a complaint can be obtained from:

You may also choose to contact:

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• allowing partner organisations to fulfil their legal duties
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The information will be managed and used by Welsh Government in accordance with its obligations and duties under the: 

• Data Protection Act 2018
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• Environmental Information Regulations 2004
• The Agriculture Support Schemes (Eligibility, Enforcement and Appeals) (Wales) Regulations 2025

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Our Regional Offices are open to the public strictly by appointment only. If you need face to face support the RPW Customer Contact Centre can make a ‘Digital Assistance’ appointment for you to attend a Regional Office where a member of staff can guide you through your application and/or claim. 

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The Gwlad e-newsletter is Welsh Government’s e-newsletter for farm and forestry businesses and all those involved with agriculture in Wales. It contains news stories, guidance and information in an accessible, easy-to-read format.  

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Other useful contacts 

Cadw for Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) and Registered Parks and Gardens:

Heneb – The Trust for Welsh Archaeology: For unscheduled ancient monuments or historic features.

Table 1 shows the SFS Universal Layer habitat classifications and the SFS Optional Layer habitat classifications which will be mapped following your Habitat Review.

SFS Universal Layer habitat classification descriptions can be found in the Sustainable Farming Scheme: universal layer 2026 guidance and the Sustainable Farming Scheme: habitat photo guide.

Additional SFS Optional Layer Habitat Classification descriptions can be found below. 

Table 1: SFS Universal Layer and SFS Optional Layer Habitat Classifications

Sand dunes

Sand dunes are natural coastal landforms and ecosystems located above the high tide mark. They form where a beach is big enough to allow the sand to dry out between tides and onshore winds are strong enough to blow the sand inland where it is trapped by specialised pioneer grasses such as maram grass. They can form dynamic systems with areas of bare sand, coarse marram grass, finer grasses, herbs and heathland. Seasonal pools may form further back from the coast in the dune slacks. 

Shingle beach

Coastal shingle beaches occur along exposed coastlines where waves deposit pebbles and cobbles. Although they often appear bare, where the shingle becomes stable it can support a small number of highly specialised plants, many of which are restricted to this habitat. Vegetation is influenced by how stable the shingle is and by the amount of finer material, such as sand or silt, known as the interstitial matrix between the stones. On very mobile shingle, vegetation is sparse and limited to pioneer species that can tolerate drought, salt spray and disturbance.

Coastal grassland

Coastal grassland includes coastal slopes and cliffs which support maritime grassland or ledge and crevice vegetation, or which are unvegetated. Coastal grasslands are found within a zone which can be up to 500m from the sea in exposed locations, with high exposure to salt spray (maritime) and occur on shallow slopes or level ground, often on cliff tops. They are typically Festuca-dominated grassland (fine-leaved fescue dominated grassland), where dwarf shrub forms less than 10% cover and include a range of maritime species such as Scilla verna (spring squill), Plantago maritima (sea plantain), Armeria maritima (thrift), Thymus drucei (wild thyme), Silene uniflora (sea campion), Achillea millefolium (yarrow) and Hyacynthoides non-scripta (bluebell). Maritime grassland often occurs alongside maritime heath and lowland heath. 

Coastal heath (maritime)

Coastal heath is characterised by dwarf shrubs such as heather which cover over 25% of the ground.  Coastal heaths are normally found within a zone which can be up to 500 m from the sea in exposed locations, with high exposure to salt spray (maritime). The main heath species are Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea.

It is identified by a frequent presence of one or both of these species, along with low or absent Ulex gallii (western gorse). It also includes maritime plants such as Scilla verna (spring squill), Plantago maritima (sea plantain), Armeria maritima (thrift) and Plantago coronopus (buck’s-horn plantain). These features help distinguish maritime heath from lowland dry heath in a coastal location.

In very exposed locations, heather cover can be sparse, sometimes less than 25%. In slightly more sheltered areas, Ulex gallii becomes more noticeable but is never as dominant as in lowland dry heath. Maritime heath often occurs alongside maritime grassland and lowland heath, with lowland heath found further inland beyond the main salt-spray zone. On some sites, there is a clear transition from maritime grassland (most exposed) to maritime heath, and then to lowland heath further inland.

Lowland dry heath

Lowland heath is characterised by the widespread occurrence of dwarf shrubs such as heather Calluna vulgaris and western gorse Ulex gallii. It is distinguished from related grassland habitats mainly by the cover of ericoid shrubs which typically exceeds 25%. Heath vegetation is mainly associated with nutrient-poor, acid soils, but stands of calcareous heath occur very locally on the Carboniferous Limestone.

Wales is particularly important for western oceanic dry heath (NVC H8). This habitat is characterised by Calluna vulgaris (heather), Erica cinerea (bell heather) and Ulex gallii (western gorse). It is the most widespread type of heathland in lowland Wales, occurring from sheltered coastal areas up to the limit of agricultural enclosure (approx. 300m). Its structure varies depending on management. It may form a dense, closed canopy, often dominated by Ulex gallii (western gorse), or appear more open and grassier.

Dry heath is generally on mineral soil (with heather and bell heather) with cross-leaved heath rare or absent

Lowland wet heath

Lowland wet heath occurs from sheltered coastal areas up to the limit of agricultural enclosure (approx. 300m). 

Wet heath can resemble other wetland habitats and may have less than 25% cover of dwarf shrubs. It should still be mapped as lowland wet heath where at least one heathland shrub is present alongside species such as Sphagnum moss (bog moss), Narthecium ossifragum (bog asphodel), Eriophorum angustifolium (common cotton grass) or Trichophorum germanicum (deer grass), and where the peat depth is shallow (less than 50 cm).

Wet heath communities (NVC M15 and M16) typically occur on moist, acidic, nutrient-poor peats. Even where dwarf shrub cover is low, they can be distinguished from marshy grassland by the frequent presence of Trichophorum germanicum (deer grass) together with at least one heath species. M15 is the most widespread type and occurs from near sea level to the upland fringe.

Wet heath is generally on shallow peat (ground visibly damp/wet) with cross-leaved heath common or dominant 

Lowland fen

Lowland fens are peat‑forming wetlands fed by groundwater and surface water that is often mildly to strongly mineral‑rich. They typically occur in low‑lying landscapes such as floodplains, valley bottoms, basin mires, and around lake margins.

In Wales, lowland fens are locally distributed but can be important in areas such as Anglesey, the Gwent Levels, parts of Pembrokeshire, and river valleys. Many Welsh examples are small, fragmented, or modified by drainage, but can still support high biodiversity.

Vegetation is usually species‑rich and varies depending on water chemistry and management. Common plants include Carex species (sedges), Juncus species (rushes), Molinia caerulea (purple moor‑grass), and herbs such as Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet), Caltha palustris (marsh marigold), and Angelica sylvestris (wild angelica). In wetter areas, you may also find Phragmites australis (common reed) and Typha latifolia (bulrush/reedmace).

Brown mosses (rather than Sphagnum bog mosses) are often present and can form a noticeable ground layer in higher‑quality fens.

Reedbeds

Reedbeds are wetland habitats dominated by tall, dense stands of Phragmites australis (common reed), typically growing in standing or slow‑moving freshwater. They are usually found in low‑lying areas such as floodplains, lake margins, reservoirs, and coastal lagoons.

In Wales, reedbeds are relatively scarce compared to England and are mostly concentrated in lowland areas, including parts of the Gwent Levels, Anglesey, and around estuaries and managed wetlands. They often occur in small, fragmented patches but can form extensive stands where conditions are suitable.

Characteristic features include:

• dense, often uniform swards of Phragmites australis (common reed), frequently over 2 m tall
• permanently or seasonally waterlogged soils, often with standing water
• build‑up of dead reed stems forming a thick litter layer

Associated species may include Typha latifolia (bulrush/reedmace), Iris pseudacorus (yellow flag iris), and Sparganium erectum (branched bur‑reed), especially around margins. Bryophytes are typically sparse due to shading and litter accumulation.

Lowland raised bog and blanket bog

Lowland raised bogs and blanket bogs are peatland habitats formed from the accumulation of partially decomposed plant material under waterlogged, acidic, and nutrient‑poor conditions. Both are fed only by rainfall rather than groundwater.

Lowland raised bogs develop in lowland basins and form a distinctive raised dome of peat above the surrounding land. In contrast, blanket bogs typically occur in the uplands, where high rainfall allows peat to form a continuous “blanket” over the landscape, draping hills and valleys.

In Wales, blanket bog is widespread in upland areas such as Snowdonia (Eryri), the Cambrian Mountains, and the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog). Lowland raised bogs are much rarer and more fragmented, with important examples including Cors Fochno, Cors Caron, and sites on Anglesey and in south Wales.

Vegetation is typically species‑poor but highly distinctive, with a strong dominance of peat‑forming mosses such as Sphagnum species (bog mosses). Common vascular plants include Eriophorum vaginatum (hare’s‑tail cottongrass), Eriophorum angustifolium (common cottongrass), Calluna vulgaris (heather), Erica tetralix (cross‑leaved heath), and Drosera rotundifolia (round‑leaved sundew). Other typical species include Trichophorum cespitosum (deergrass) and Vaccinium oxycoccos (cranberry).

Surfaces may include pools, hummocks, and lawns dominated by different Sphagnum species (e.g. Sphagnum papillosum (papillose bog moss), Sphagnum capillifolium (small red bog moss).

Floodplain meadows

Floodplain meadows occur on low-lying land alongside or close to rivers and streams and are typically subject to seasonal flooding. They are typically found on neutral, moderately fertile alluvial soils, which are periodically enriched by riverine deposits during flood events. These meadows are managed for hay cutting, normally followed by light grazing, and can support a diverse range of flowering plants where fertiliser inputs are low and traditional management is maintained.

The vegetation is typically a mixture of grasses and herbaceous flowering plants. Common grasses include Alopecurus pratensis (meadow foxtail), Festuca pratensis (meadow fescue) and Cynosurus cristatus (crested dog’s-tail). Characteristic herbs typically include Ranunculus acris (meadow buttercup), Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet), Rhinanthus minor (yellow rattle) and, characteristically, Sanguisorba officinalis (great burnet). Species diversity is often highest where nutrient applications are low and management is consistent, but floodplain meadows typically provide a relatively high yield due to naturally high soil nutrient levels resulting from the periodic flooding.

Floodplain meadows are typically inundated for part of winter or early spring, with water levels receding before the main growing season. Soils remain moist for much of the year but are not usually permanently waterlogged, and they lack persistent standing water during summer. The vegetation structure is generally even due to hay cutting, although variation does occur due to micro-topographic changes across the meadow, and depending on the timing of management and grazing intensity.

In Wales, species-rich floodplain meadows are a scarce habitat, mainly occurring in river valleys and lowland floodplains close to the borders with England, although there is evidence they used to be much more widespread. They may be found in mosaics with other wet grassland types, such as marshy grassland and tall-herb fen, reflecting variations in drainage, flooding frequency and management history.

Marshy grassland (lowland and upland)

Marshy grassland refers to a range of plant communities that develop on mineral soils, peaty mineral soils, or shallow peat (less than 50cm depth). These communities are typically dominated by species such as Molinia caerulea (purple moor‑grass), tall Juncus species (rushes), Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet), or Iris pseudacorus (yellow flag iris). With other indicator species such as Achillea ptarmica sneezewort, Angelica sylvestris (angelica), Comarum palustre (marsh cinquefoil), Hydrocotyle vulgaris (pennywort), Hypericum (St John’s-wort species), Lotus pedunculatus Greater bird’s-foot trefoil, Lythrum salicaria (purple loosestrife), Mentha aquatica (watermint), Myosotis (forget-me-not species), orchid species, Potentilla erecta (tormentil), Ranunculus flammula (lesser spearwort), Carex (sedge species), Silene flos-cuculi (ragged Robin), Succisa pratensis (devil’s-bit scabious), Valeriana dioica (marsh valerian), Viola palustris (marsh violet) often present. While there is an absence of any significant Sphagnum moss cover. 

Generally marshy grassland has lower species diversity and fewer fen species than other wetland habitat types.

Wet heath communities dominated by purple moor‑grass can appear similar, but they are distinguished by having a significant cover (greater than 25%) of Calluna vulgaris (heather) or other heathland shrubs. Some poor examples of fen and bog vegetation may also resemble marshy grassland. However, they can be distinguished by occurring on deeper peat (greater than 0.5 m). True bog vegetation typically has a high cover of Sphagnum species (bog mosses) and/or Eriophorum vaginatum (hare’s‑tail cottongrass).

Traditionally, most marshy grassland has been managed as rough grazing for livestock. It often occurs as part of a mosaic with other habitats, such as wet heath, mire (including bogs, fens, and flushes), and drier acidic or neutral grassland.

Limestone pavement (lowland and upland)

Limestone pavement is a distinctive habitat in Wales, although it’s relatively rare and localised.

It mainly occurs on exposed carboniferous limestone in both upland and some lowland areas, where the surface has been shaped into a pattern of flat blocks (clints) separated by deep fissures (grikes). These features create a range of microhabitats: the clints are dry and exposed, while the grikes are sheltered, humid, and often shaded. This variation allows a range of species to develop in a small area.

Vegetation on upland limestone pavement is usually a mosaic. The exposed clint tops may support thin, species-rich calcareous grassland, with plants typical of limestone soils such as Thymus praecox (wild thyme) and Helianthemum nummularium (common rock-rose). In contrast, the grikes often support more shade-tolerant and moisture-loving species, including ferns, mosses, and woodland herbs such as Asplenium trichomanes (maidenhair spleenwort), Cystopteris fragilis (brittle bladder-fern), and Geranium robertianum (herb-robert).

In upland settings, pavements can also grade into other habitats, including calcareous grassland, acid grassland (where leaching has reduced soil pH), scrub, and even woodland where grazing pressure is low. This creates complex habitat mosaics that are valuable for biodiversity.

Upland open habitat

Upland is defined as land above the upper limit of functional agricultural enclosure, often referred to as “above the mountain wall”, typically around 300m, where parcels are generally unenclosed, open in character, and dominated by predominantly semi-natural vegetation.

It may comprise a mixture of habitats as interwoven mosaics or may be in large stands including heath (dry and wet), bog, flush, fen, acid or calcareous grassland, rock scree, scrub, bracken and scattered trees. 

Upland dry heath

Upland dry heath occurs on well-drained, acidic soils in the Welsh uplands, typically above the limit of agricultural enclosure. It is characterised by a high cover of dwarf shrubs, normally over 25%, forming a continuous or near-continuous canopy.

The vegetation is usually dominated by Calluna vulgaris (heather), often with Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) and Erica cinerea (bell heather). In some areas, Ulex gallii (western gorse) may also be frequent. The ground layer often includes grasses such as Deschampsia flexuosa (wavy hair-grass) and Agrostis capillaris (common bent), along with mosses such as Pleurozium schreberi (red-stemmed feather moss) and lichens.

Dry heath typically has relatively firm, well-drained soils and lacks standing water. Peat, if present, is shallow, generally less than 0.5 m. The vegetation structure is often quite varied, with a mosaic of dwarf shrubs of different ages, reflecting grazing and burning management.

In Wales, upland dry heath is widespread, particularly on slopes and ridges in the north, mid-Wales and western uplands. It commonly occurs alongside acid grassland and bracken.

Upland wet heath

Upland wet heath occurs on poorly drained, often peaty soils in the uplands and is strongly influenced by high rainfall and impeded drainage. It may have a lower overall cover of dwarf shrubs than dry heath but is defined by the presence of wet heath species.

The vegetation is typically dominated or strongly influenced by Erica tetralix (cross-leaved heath), often with Calluna vulgaris (heather) and Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry). A key distinguishing species is Trichophorum germanicum (deergrass), which is usually frequent. Other common plants include Molinia caerulea (purple moor-grass), Narthecium ossifragum (bog asphodel), and a range of Sphagnum mosses.

Wet heath soils are usually waterlogged for at least part of the year, and shallow pools or wet hollows may be present. Peat is often shallow to moderate in depth but can grade into deeper peat associated with blanket bog. Compared to dry heath, wet heath has a softer, wetter substrate and a more open, uneven vegetation structure. 

In Wales, upland wet heath is common in high rainfall areas, particularly in the west and north, and often occurs in mosaics with blanket bog and flushes.

Upland bog

Upland bog refers to areas of deep, waterlogged peat found in the uplands, most commonly as blanket bog. This habitat develops under conditions of high rainfall and low evaporation, where waterlogging prevents the full decomposition of plant material, leading to the accumulation of peat. In Wales, upland bog is widespread, particularly in the wetter west and north, and often occurs on gently sloping or flat ground above around 300m.

The vegetation is typically dominated by peat-forming mosses, especially Sphagnum spp. (bog mosses), which play a key role in maintaining waterlogged conditions. Characteristic flowering plants include Eriophorum vaginatum (hare’s-tail cottongrass), Eriophorum angustifolium (common cottongrass) and Calluna vulgaris (heather). Other frequent species include Erica tetralix (cross-leaved heath), Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) and Empetrum nigrum (crowberry).

Upland bogs are typically very wet underfoot and may include hummocks and hollows, pools or flushes. Compared to heathland, they have deeper peat, usually greater than 0.5m, and a higher abundance of Sphagnum mosses and cotton grasses. Blanket bog often occurs in close mosaics with wet heath and flush habitats.

Upland fen and flush

Upland fen and flush habitats occur where groundwater or surface water movement leads to consistently wet, often base-rich conditions. Unlike bogs, which receive water primarily from rainfall, fens and flushes are influenced by mineral-rich water flowing through or emerging at the surface. In Wales, these habitats are found throughout the uplands, often as small but important features within mosaics of bog, heath and grassland.

Flushes are often associated with slopes where water seeps or flows over the surface, often visible as wet streaks down slopes or wet patches fed by springs.

Fens tend to occur in flatter areas where water accumulates. Soils are usually wet or saturated for much of the year but may be more variable than in bogs.

The vegetation is typically more diverse than in bogs and is often dominated by sedges, rushes and grasses rather than dwarf shrubs. Common species include Juncus acutiflorus (sharp-flowered rush), Carex nigra (common sedge), Carex panicea (carnation sedge) and Molinia caerulea (purple moor-grass). A wide range of herbs may also be present, such as Cirsium dissectum (meadow thistle), Succisa pratensis (devil’s-bit scabious) and Parnassia palustris (grass-of-Parnassus).

Bryophytes are often important, particularly in base-rich flushes, and may include various moss species rather than the dominance of Sphagnum seen in bogs. In more calcareous conditions, these habitats can be particularly species-rich and may support locally scarce plants.

The key distinction from upland bog is the influence of moving, mineral-rich water and the absence of deep peat formation dominated by Sphagnum. Compared to wet heath, fens and flushes usually have fewer dwarf shrubs and a greater abundance of sedges and rushes.

Upland calaminarian grassland

Calaminarian grassland in the uplands of Wales is a rare, specialist habitat associated with historic metal mining areas, particularly in mid‑Wales, where soils enriched with lead, zinc and other heavy metals limit plant growth to a small number of tolerant species. These upland sites, often found on mine spoil, thin soils and contaminated river gravels around areas such as Cwmystwyth, support sparse, open vegetation dominated by metallophytes including Minuartia verna (spring sandwort) and Thlaspi caerulescens, (alpine pennycress) alongside metal-tolerant forms of common grasses like Festuca ovina. The harsh soil chemistry prevents more competitive vegetation from establishing, maintaining a distinctive, species-poor but ecologically valuable grassland that is of high conservation importance in Wales, particularly where light grazing helps to retain its open structure within the wider upland landscape.

Upland acid grassland

Acid grassland vegetation is characteristically dominated by species such as Festuca ovina (sheep’s fescue), Agrostis capillaris (common bent), Nardus stricta (mat-grass), Juncus squarrosus (heath rush) and Deschampsia flexuosa (wavy hair-grass), with a limited but distinctive range of associated herbs including Galium saxatile (heath bedstraw), Potentilla erecta (tormentil) and Rumex acetosella (sheep’s sorrel). Dwarf shrubs such as Calluna vulgaris (heather) and Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) may be present at low cover; stands in which they exceed 25% should be mapped as heathland. Unimproved acid grassland is widespread and often abundant in the uplands and upland fringes of Wales. It may cover extensive areas as uniform stands or may occur in vegetation mosaics with other forms of grassland, heath, bracken and scrub. It is typically associated with acid bedrock or base-poor superficial deposits, occurring on a range of soils with pH < 5.5, including rankers, podzols and brown earths. Most of the habitat is managed as sheep pasture.