Drought order too rigid says NFU

The NFU has expressed its disappointment that the outcome of the public hearing on the Sutton and East Surrey water drought order is a blanket order rather that a more flexible ‘smart’ response.

Although the NFU is concerned about low water levels in the South East, and farmers and growers are working hard to become more and more water efficient, there were certain aspects of the drought order which may have a negative effect on growers’ businesses.

Now the drought order has been granted, the NFU is encouraging smart water management that would still allow local authorities to maintain many public amenities and features planted with turf or bedding plants.

NFU water adviser Anna Hall said: “Water is a precious resource and the NFU believes very strongly in using it in a smart way.

“Although this drought order does not apply to commercial growing, it does apply to some of our growers’ biggest customers – local authorities and councils. We have always stated, with proper management and effective watering by grounds professionals, hanging baskets and flower beds actually use negligible amounts of water.

“However, now this drought order is in place, we must encourage local authorities to continue to use bedding plants and floral displays. Plants do not require drinking quality water. The smart use of grey water resources, like collected rainwater, can provide councils with alternative resources.”

In March, during its submission to a public hearing regarding the granting of drought orders, the NFU called on water companies to adopt a more targeted approach to water management, rather than a blanket ban on non-essential use.

The NFU submission also asked for exemptions to be made in the following cases:

· For councils and local authorities to continue watering hanging baskets and bedding plants.

· For the watering of newly laid turf and recently established plantings.

· To allow the use of water for the washing of vehicles for biosecurity reasons.

These exemptions were refused.

Sutton and East Surry Water plc plans to place restrictions on non-essential uses of water in order to tackle very low water levels in their area. In granting the order, the first since 1995, Environment Minister Ian Pearson said he expected the company to use its new powers sensitively. This view is echoed by the NFU.