The Environment Agency have launched applications for a new round
of specialist water assessments today (4 June), supporting farmer
groups to collaborate on drought resilience measures and
delivering on the government's commitment to food security.
The £1.1 million package will support 12 fresh screening studies
across England, known as Local Resource Options (LROs). They will
assess the strengths and weaknesses of different water management
options such as multi-farm reservoirs, treated wastewater
recycling systems, or collaborative irrigation
networks.
Last year, the fund provided 106 farms with recommendations and
attracted positive responses from farmer groups for helping
identify risks and facilitate greater co-operation between
neighbours.
Proposals included building rainwater storage and distribution
systems for growers of soft fruits like strawberries, wetlands to
recycle treated wastewater for potato farmers or shared reservoir
and irrigation networks to supply crops and aid peat
restoration.
Environment Agency estimates suggest their top recommendations
could provide an additional 12 billion litres of low-cost water
per year to farmers, worth £53 million.
Philip Duffy, Environment Agency Chief Executive
said:
Farmers say responsible access to water is vital for food
production and rural economies, particularly during prolonged dry
weather.
This scheme will help us draw up plans for on-farm water storage
that work for the environment and food production.
, Minister for Food and
Rural Affairs said:
Every farmer knows you need water to grow. This programme
supports farmers to find new ways to manage water collaboratively
to protect food security, long term profitability and local
communities.
Storing water on wet days for use during dry periods is a great
way to sustainably secure our food systems and farming businesses
against the threat of drought.
Applications are open now for groups including at least two
neighbouring farms and will close at 11:59 PM on 20 July
2025.
To apply or for further information, please visit the Environment
Agency Water Hub
