A Field Margin is established between the field boundary (adjacent field, fence, ditch or hedge) and the crop. A Field Margin can benefit farming by harboring beneficial birds, small mammals and insects that predate crop pests and reduce weed infestations into crops. They also provide valuable habitat and connecting corridors for a variety of other wildlife especially when they remain in place for many years.
Establishment:
Following consultation with the DFWT, the cooperator will plant where necessary and at their expense, a minimum 1 to 10 meters wide Field Margin with a grass and wildflower mixture at 40-50 lbs. per acre (or as specified by the seed company), plus any recommended nurse crop to assist the establishment of the grass mixture. Following consultation with the DFWT, the cooperator will cut the nurse crop to maximize establishment of the grass mixture in the first year.
Maintenance:
In addition to paying $650/acre/year for land removed from active agriculture for the establishment year of this agreement, the DFWT will pay the Cooperator $500/acre for the costs of maintaining the Field Margin for an additional 2 years after the establishment year.
In consultation with the DFWT, the Cooperator will perform standard and reasonable management practices for maintenance of the Field Margin including without limitation:
- protection of established Field Margin
- where necessary provide protective fencing of the Field Margin
- weed control during establishment and thereafter when necessary
- cutting of the Field Margin when necessary