Crops

Fields of grass, hay and silage

When grass has just been sown, treat it like any other crop and follow the appropriate guidance (see fields of growing crops). When on land in which grass is being grown for hay or silage you can exercise access rights unless it is at such a late stage of growth that it might be damaged. Such grass will be grown in enclosed fields and have no animals grazing on it. A "late stage of growth" is considered to be when the grass is above ankle height (about 8 inches or 20cm). In such cases, use paths or tracks where they exist or go along the margins of the field. Grass can also be grown for turf, usually on relatively flat ground and in large fields. In these cases, use paths or tracks where they exist or go along the margins of the field, when the turf is at an early stage of establishment or if you are cycling or horse riding.

Fields of growing crops

When exercising access rights in a field of crops, avoid damaging the crop by:

• Using any paths or tracks
• Using the margins of the field (if the margin is narrow or has been planted, avoid causing unnecessary damage by keeping close to the edge in single file)
• Going along any unsown ground (providing this does not damage the crop)
• Considering alternative routes on neighbouring ground.

Fields where crops are being sprayed and fertilised

Land managers often need to apply fertilisers or other materials, such as slurry or lime, to fields of crops. The duration of the hazard depends on the material used but can extend from a few hours to four days in the case of sulphuric acid. As these can be dangerous to public health, land managers are required to ensure that people do not enter land on which pesticides have been used. Follow any advice asking you to avoid using particular routes or areas at these times.

Fields which are being ploughed or where crops are being harvested

Access rights extend to such fields but do not hinder such work. If you encounter such work while it is underway, proceed carefully, keep a safe distance and follow any advice provided by the land manager. It might be safest to go into a neighbouring field or keep to the edge of the field.

Margins of fields of growing crops

You can exercise access rights on the margins of fields in which crops are growing, even if the margin has been sown with a crop. Some margins can be managed for wildlife (remember that some farmers may receive payments for doing this) and for encouraging game birds so take care by keeping dogs on a short lead or under close control and by not lingering if birds become significantly disturbed by your presence. If the margin is narrow or has been planted, avoid causing unnecessary damage, particularly if you are cycling or horse riding, by keeping in single file and staying close to the edge of the field.