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ACRES SCHEME (Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme)

ACRES Scheme

Cultivating a Sustainable Future

Discover the ACRES Scheme – a groundbreaking agri-environmental initiative empowering farmers to enhance their land's biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental quality. As part of Ireland's CAP Strategic Plan for 2023-2027, this €1.5 billion scheme rewards farmers up to €10,500 annually for specific actions that benefit the environment.

Key Features

Flexible Options

Choose from diverse actions, including low-input grassland, tree planting, and organic farming.

Two Approaches

ACRES General for individual farmers and ACRES Co-operation for collaborative environmental projects.

Priority Tiers

Three-tier system based on the environmental importance of your land.

Why Join ACRES?

  • Financial incentives and rewards for positive environmental outcomes
  • Farmer-friendly and outcome-based approach
  • Supportive resources, including training, webinars, and FAQs
  • Access to AgriSnap app for documenting actions

Recommended Native Hedge Mix

For optimal biodiversity and ACRES compliance, we recommend the following species mix for your hedgerow

Example: 300 Metre Hedge Composition

Based on 5 plants per metre (1,500 total plants)

Primary Species

  • 🌳 Whitethorn: 75% (1,125 plants)

Supporting Species

  • 🌲 Holly: 5% (75 plants)
  • 🌳 Blackthorn: 8% (120 plants)
  • 🌳 Hazel: 5% (75 plants)
  • 🌺 Dog Rose: 4% (60 plants)
  • 🌳 Elder: 3% (45 plants)

Key Guidelines

  • Whitethorn should make up the majority (70-75%) of your hedge for structural integrity
  • Include at least 3-4 supporting species for biodiversity
  • Evergreen species like Holly should not exceed 5% of the total mix
  • Plant at 5 plants per metre in a double staggered row
  • Consider site conditions when selecting supporting species

ACRES Native Hedge Species

Whitethorn

Crataegus monogyna

The backbone of Irish hedgerows. Essential for traditional field boundaries.

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Blackthorn

Prunus spinosa

Excellent for wildlife and natural boundaries. Produces sloe berries.

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Hazel

Corylus avellana

Traditional hedging species with excellent wildlife value.

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Holly

Ilex aquifolium

Evergreen species providing year-round shelter and winter interest.

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Dog Rose

Rosa canina

Adds diversity and provides essential food sources for wildlife.

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Elder

Sambucus nigra

Fast-growing species with berries that attract birds.

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Get Started Today

Contact our expert sales team to ensure you get the correct and approved plants for the scheme.