JCA Targeting Statements

Defra, in discussion with other Government agencies, has outlined the key characteristics of the different parts of the English countryside, by defining over 150 Joint Character Areas; your land will be covered by one of these areas.

Each area has priority targets for the management of a variety of features. These targets have been agreed with help from local organisations. An element of entry into Higher Level Stewardship will be satisfying these targets by mounting up 17 points from a combination of the key targets worth 5 points and secondary targets worth 2 points.

Court Farm headland
©Helen Morley/Plantlife

One target that appears in many statements is to maintain and enhance populations of UK BAP species, particularly spring and autumn germinating arable plants. This target usually appears as a key five point target.

Therefore if any of the UK BAP species appear on your farm either currently or historically, choosing a arable option will be a good step towards making a successful application.