In order to be eligible under the Single Payment Scheme and other area based schemes, an applicant must ensure that all agricultural land is maintained in good agricultural and environmental condition (GAEC). EU regulations governing the area based schemes set minimum standards for GAEC which must be complied with by means of the undertaking of appropriate agricultural practices. Theses standards set requirements relating to the protection of soil from erosion; maintenance of soil organic matter levels; maintenance of soil structure; minimum level of maintenance and avoidance of deterioration of habitats and the protection and management of water. Farmers can keep grassland in GAEC by conducting an agricultural activity on it, such as grazing, harvesting forage crops, or by topping. As a general principle, grasslands continue to be eligible where it is evident that the stocking rate on the land is sufficient.