Farmers to engage with catchment sensitive farming

Speaking at the launch of the Catchment-Sensitive Farming (CSF) Delivery Initiative Peter Kendall, Deputy President of the NFU welcomed a partnership approach to resolving diffuse water pollution caused by agriculture.

Defra minister Elliot Morley announced on Monday 19 December that forty areas across England have been identified as a priority for action to reduce the risk of pollution caused in rivers, lakes, estuaries and coastal waters by the leaching of nutrients from fields.

Newly appointed Defra advisors will work on a one to one basis with farmers and growers to encourage good practice. Farmers will be offered workshops and demonstrations on how to limit the impact of fertilizers, manures and pesticide use. Farmers will also be encouraged to fence off water courses and reduce stocking densities.

Speaking at the launch in London Peter Kendall said:

“Farmers are already subject to significant regulation, so I am pleased that Defra has taken a partnership approach to the WFD (Water Framework Directive) in catchment sensitive areas. Appointing dedicated advisors will mean that farmers will receive consistent, practical advice and support to develop smart, win-win solutions that will leave a lighter environmental footprint. We are committed to building an industry that is both profitable and environmentally sensitive.”

“At a time when farming incomes are low we also welcome the additional small grants on offer to farmers that go to some expense to implement these measures. The local advisors will also act as a ‘signpost’ to other agri-environmental grants that farmers may not be aware of.”