Government work has started on a programme to combat future droughts and extreme weather, including ways to protect water demands for the agricultural sector.
Work has now started on the development of a water resources national framework that will guide the development of new plans.
The Government has been urged by farmers to recognise the role that water plays in farming, being a vital ingredient in food production and essential to the economic performance of the agri-food sector.
Increasing water demands from other sectors, and a greater risk of water scarcity caused by droughts and climate change, already threaten the farming industry’s ability to sustain and increase efficient, high quality food production at affordable prices.
Growers of high value fruit and vegetables are particularly reliant on access to secure supplies of water.
Analysis shows that water resources will face significant pressures resulting from climate change, population growth and increasing environmental aspirations.
The new programme by Defra will involve plans that improve co-ordination between public water companies and other sectors, including farming, to identify solutions.
The framework represents a significant step forward for the agricultural sector because it recognises the importance food production in a multi-sector approach in delivering resilience to drought and water scarcity.
This process gives the NFU the opportunity to make the case for agriculture as an essential user of water.
In some regions, engagement in the planning process may provide farmers with opportunities to access water being ‘imported’ into the region, and may benefit abstractors with increased licensing flexibility.
