Following the devastation caused by Storm Babet, which has seen
vast areas of farmland under water, and with another storm on the
horizon, the NFU is calling on all political parties to set out
their plans to protect farmland from flooding which puts the
country’s food security at risk.
The campaign is an open letter which calls on the Environment
Agency to deliver a proactive plan for the watercourses and flood
defences it manages, as well as for government to pay farmers and
growers fairly for the vital role they play in protecting
homes and businesses when rivers breach their banks.
Additionally, the NFU is calling for changes to the Flood Defence
Grant in Aid cost-benefit analysis to ensure that rural
communities are not disadvantaged by the nature of smaller
populations in comparison to urban communities.
NFU Deputy President Tom Bradshaw said: “I have been out to meet
NFU members and have seen first-hand the destruction and
financial stress caused by flooding to farmers’ businesses
and their homes. Despite promises made during each catastrophic
flooding event, repeated governments of all parties have failed
to get to grips with the challenge of managing watercourses and
flooding. With another storm forecast this week, we need to see
plans come forward as a matter of urgency.
“As farmers, we have all experienced the impact of more and more
extreme weather and with climate change this is something we will
continue to see more of. While the flood water might be receding
in some areas, I want to ensure our members start to see action
now.
“There are tangible things that can be done now to adapt. For
example, maintaining existing flood defences and paying farmers
for the public good they provide by holding floodwater on their
land. All political parties must recognise that for these
long-term plans to succeed, action is required urgently.
“I would encourage all farmers, whether impacted by flooding or
not, to sign the NFU’s open letter; one that is asking political
parties to stand up and listen to those working on the frontline
of climate change. They must deliver solutions for the future to
ensure we can continue producing food while protecting our
farmland and local communities.”
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Notes to editor:
- The NFU open letter is calling for:
-
- A proactive management plan for Environment Agency
controlled watercourses and flood defences as a priority.
- Changes to the Flood Defence Grant in Aid cost-benefit
analysis. The way that funding for flood defences is
currently allocated leaves farmers and rural communities at a
higher risk than urban communities.
- Recognition of the public goods farmers deliver. Flood
storage is often provided at great cost to the landowner to
protect surrounding urban areas. Farmers must be fairly paid
for delivering this service with agreements put in place that
allow farmers and growers to plan for it and ensure recovery
procedures are in place.
- To sign the letter, visit the following webpage.
