A locally targeted conservation programme building strong partnerships with farmers to deliver sustainable benefits for biodiversity, upland ecosystems and a vibrant local rural economy.
The Project values participation and co-operation in the delivery of environmental objectives. It encourages and rewards farming for conservation with incentives and support rather than penalties.
Farmers make the decisions for their own farm. They are supported with training and advice and rewarded for their achievements.
Targeted specifically at farmers with land in Slieve Beagh, Slieve Bloom Mountains, Slieve Felim to Silvermines Mountains, Slieve Aughty Mountains, Stacks to Mullaghereirk Mountains, West Limerick Hills & Mount Eagle and Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains Special Protection Areas (SPAs).
All eligible land will be scored annually with a user friendly scorecard and receive a score. Higher scores receive higher payments. This gives farmers the incentive to manage their fields in ways that will improve the habitat condition and their payment as well.
An annual farm plan will contain a list of actions (jobs) which are nominated by the farmer with the aim of improving the site’s management and conservation condition for the benefit of the Hen Harrier.
The Hen Harrier Project is an EIP (European Innovation Partnership) Locally Led Scheme. The Project is funded by the Dept. of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as part of Ireland's Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.