Natural England - Higher Level Stewardship

Higher Level Stewardship

Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) aims to deliver significant environmental benefits in high priority situations and areas. It involves more complex environmental management, so you will get advice and support from our advisers.

HLS is usually combined with ELS or OELS options. There is a wide range of management options, and these are designed to support key features of the different areas of the English countryside.  HLS can contribute to a wide range of capital works such as restoration of hedgerows or traditional farm buildings.

How does HLS work?

HLS is discretionary. We are looking for agreements that are likely to achieve maximum environmental benefit and represent good value for money.

We have produced a set of maps of the country, to establish which land gives the most environmental benefit with the funds available. Find out more in HLS Targeting.

HLS agreements are for ten years. Payments are sent out every six months and relate to the options in your agreement.

How can I get advice and help?

There is a wide range of advice and help available to you:

  • To arrange a farm visit from an adviser, please call 0300 060 1695. 

  • If you would like to attend one of our Environmental Stewardship events in your region, please see our Farm events page or call 0300 060 1695.

  • Natural England maintains a register of agents who are able to complete Environmental Stewardship applications.

  • for information, how to apply and land management queries please call 0300 060 0011

How do I apply?

To apply for an HLS agreement, please contact your regional office. Technical advice and support will be provided by local Natural England advisers. Applying for HLS involves preparing a Farm Environmental Plan (FEP).

Our target is to provide an agreement within four months of receiving a valid application.

What information and documents will I need to apply?

The following documents will help you with your HLS application

Existing agreements

If you have an existing agreement that started between October 2008 and February 2010 you should refer to:

If you have an existing agreement that started before October 2008, you should refer to the following publication: