Fully funded expert-led studies to assess water security on farms open for applications
The Environment Agency has 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 taxpayer funded 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.
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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:
Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food and Rural Affairs said:
Applications are open now for groups including at least two neighbouring farms and will close at 11:59 PM on 20 July 2025.
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To apply or for further information, please visit the Environment Agency Water Hub