51AVÊÓƵ

Wildfarmed's Andy Cato writes on Defra's SFI25 closure, why it is vital that farmers receive support for their efforts in nature and climate recovery, and why nature-rich food production should be seen as the most valuable of investments rather than a subsidy by Government

Rachael Madeley-Davies, AHDB head of environment said: "Ensuring that soil remains permeable and minimising compaction is an easy win in terms of soil health and adapting to managing increased rainfall and flooding implications on farmland"

Farmers urged to prepare for multi-hazard weather event of high winds, snow and heavy rain

"Safety for farmers, family members and workers should always be the number one priority. And while fully understanding the pressures farmers are under, it is vital they avoid taking risks which could lead to injury or fatalities"

According to Defra, around 13,000 farmers were impacted by severe wet weather, including Storms Henk and Babet, between October and March last year

Defra promises raft of measures and confirms farmers to receive Recovery Fund cash in days

"We have had about eight acres of the farm which has completely flooded because streams cannot cope with the amount of rainfall we have experienced"

"We know that there is a perception that the majority of our investment in flood defences goes to protect urban populations. All flood and coastal risk management projects must be carefully assessed to make sure they benefit the most people and property. But that does not mean we do not prioritise rural communities"

While it was ‘unlikely' this winter would be as wet as that of 2023, the threat remained in counties such as Lincolnshire

Mr Bradshaw said October 30 would be the ‘moment of truth', when farmers will see ‘whether this Government backs British farming or not'