SM6: Use monitoring equipment to manage invasive species

Find out about eligibility and requirements for the use monitoring equipment to manage invasive species item.

If you’re applying for this item as part of a Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) application, you must read the CSHT applicant’s guide to understand the rules and how to apply.

How much you’ll be paid 

Up to 100% of actual costs   

How this item benefits the environment

Using monitoring equipment (such as camera traps) helps to show how well species or habitats are recovering. It improves the management of invasive species.

Where you can use this item 

You can use this item alongside PA7: Species management plan

With the approval of the Forestry Commission, you can use this item alongside:

With the approval of Natural England, you can use this item alongside:

What you must do to use this item

You must:

  • provide at least 3 written quotations for purchasing and installing the equipment with your application
  • agree which quotation you will use with Natural England or the Forestry Commission
  • install the monitoring equipment on each site following the specification set out in your species management plan
  • maintain the monitoring equipment for the duration of your agreement
  • provide maps of the location where you plan to place the equipment

Evidence you must keep 

You must provide photographs of where the monitoring equipment is installed when you make your claim for payment.

You must also keep and provide on request:

  • copies of any consents or permissions connected with the work
  • receipted invoices or receipts for the monitoring equipment
  • at least three quotations for completion of the work

If you’re applying for this item as part of a Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) application, read the record keeping and site visit requirements in the CSHT agreement holder’s guide.

Other items you can use with this item

You can use this item with these items:

Updates to this page

Published 10 September 2025