The UK is the fourth largest producer of cereal and oilseeds in Europe. Cereals are grown on over 70,000 farms, mainly along the drier east side of the UK.
How does my farm effect the environment?
Point-source pollution
Arable farming has a lower potential for point-source pollution because the diversity of stored pollutants, such as slurry, feeds and animal health products, are not on farm. But arable farms do tend to store large quantities of fuel and fertilisers.
Diffuse pollution
Arable farming is a major contributor to diffuse pollution. We estimate annual losses of soil from cultivated land are approximately five tonnes per hectare. This figure can sometimes rise due to poor soil management and compaction.
How can I reduce diffuse pollution from my farm?
Soil management plans are great starting points to reduce soil losses. By complying with the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone Action Programme of nutrient management planning and targeted applications of organic manures and fertilisers, you should help to reduce the loss of nitrates from your land. It will save you money and reduce your farm's impact on the environment.
Do I need an environmental permit?
If you are intending to dispose of waste pesticide washings, it is likely you will require an environmental permit. Please follow the link below for more information:
I use herbicides on my farm - do these have an effect?
One or two herbicides still give rise to concern. They tend to be autumn applied and may only be present in water for a few days, but this is enough for water companies to invest millions of pounds to safeguard our drinking water.
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