WS1 & WD2 Grant: Deer Control & Management Plan
Wildscape Deer Management is your trusted partner in formulating and executing robust Deer Management Plans (DMPs) in line with the UKFS and UKWAS guidelines, stipulated by the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier WS1 Supplementary Deer Grant and WD2 Grant.
How much will be paid as part of the scheme?
WS1: £105 per hectare (ha).
WD2: A minimum of £1000 per year.
FG11: £212.56 per unit.
Requirement as per Woodland improvement Multi-year option (WD2) and capital items including Woodland Infrastructure (FY2):
Evidence needed where deer control has been identified as required in the woodland management plan, by the end of year 1 of the agreement have in place a deer management plan. Manage deer populations to allow the establishment of appropriate ground flora and understory, preferably by means of lethal control but if this is not effective through fencing deer out of the woodland. Monitor such management and provide reports including, for example, deer cull numbers and photographic evidence from deer exclusion plots in years 3 and 5.
Deer management plan in place at the end of the first year of the agreement. Monitoring reports to be retained at year 3 and 5 including, for example, deer cull numbers and photographic evidence of deer exclusion plots. We may ask to see this evidence.
Download Countryside Stewardship: Higher Tier Manual
Our Deer Management Plan Service encompasses:
1. Initial Assessment:
- Detailed assessment of the existing deer population, their impact on the land, and the identification of key challenges and opportunities.
- Comprehensive habitat evaluation to understand the carrying capacity and the environmental impact of deer presence.
2. Objective Setting:
- Collaborative goal setting with landowners to align the deer management strategy with the broader objectives of the estate or farm.
- Identifying short-term and long-term objectives for deer population control and habitat restoration.
3. Strategy Development:
- Formulating a bespoke deer management strategy encapsulating population control measures, habitat enhancement initiatives, and community engagement.
- Development of a culling plan and exploring alternative deer management practices.
4. Implementation:
- Execution of the deer management strategy by our seasoned team of deer managers, employing ethical and humane practices.
- Coordination with local stakeholders and authorities to ensure seamless implementation and compliance with all legal and environmental guidelines.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Regular monitoring of deer populations and their impact on the habitat to evaluate the effectiveness of the management plan.
- Adapting the strategy based on monitoring outcomes to ensure continued success and alignment with the set objectives.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
- Comprehensive documentation of all activities, findings, and outcomes as required by the Countryside Stewardship Grants (WS1 & WD2) guidelines.
- Periodic reporting to landowners and relevant authorities to ensure transparency and compliance.
Benefits of Our Service:
- Compliance Assurance: Ensure compliance with the requirements of Countryside Stewardship Grants (WS1 & WD2) to secure eligibility for financial support.
- Financial Sustainability: Unlocking potential revenue streams through effective deer management, including venison sales, guided stalking experiences, and more.
- Ecological Balance: Achieve a harmonious balance between deer populations and the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and habitat restoration.
- Educational Advancement: Educate the community on the importance of deer management and the role it plays in maintaining ecological balance.
Please note that we can only offer this service within Sussex, Surrey & Hampshire, and where an application has been made for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier on whole or part parcels, where deer have been identified in the Woodland Management Plan. Deer should be identified as a threat to semi-natural woodlands, regeneration and/or where deer browsing negatively impacts on woodland features, ground flora or structure. If you include this as part of your Higher Tier application, the Forestry Commission will assess your application for this option before you are offered an agreement.
