On-farm reservoir grant announced by Defra

The grant is part of the Countryside Productivity Scheme
The grant is part of the Countryside Productivity Scheme

Defra has announced a minimum grant of £35,000 to improve water efficiency on farms by constructing on-farm reservoirs.

The grant is part of the Countryside Productivity Scheme which is aiming to create jobs and growth within the rural sector.

The funds may go towards construction of a water storage reservoir, irrigation pumps or software and sensors to optimise water application.

One farm that produces potatoes, carrots and parsnips has announced that it will construct a 150,000 m3 synthetically lined reservoir plus 8 km of underground distribution main.

This will enable 90 hectares to be irrigated annually across a total area of 730 hectares, in partnership with a local grower.

Since the funding comes from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), the government has 'guaranteed' the subsidy if the projects are agreed and signed before the UK's departure.

"This is subject to projects meeting the following conditions, that they are good value for money and they are in line with domestic strategic priorities," it said.

'High quality jobs'

Rural Affairs' Lord Gardiner said: "One in three businesses in this country are based in the countryside, and this government is committed to providing the support they need to create a strong and prosperous rural economy.

"This funding will make sure businesses in remote locations can get online, help farmers install cutting-edge technology, create new tourist hotspots and bring high quality jobs to rural communities across the country."

Another project includes a business constructing a 220,000 m3 reservoir.

This will be the first time irrigation will be used on the holding and will enable the business to start producing potato and carrot crops.