Your Dorset county NFU update

The Environment Agency (EA) has asked us to share the following update with members regarding recent activity in the Poole Harbour catchment and more broadly across Dorset.

Following catchment walkovers undertaken in April and May, the EA has identified a number of areas they would like to highlight to farmers, with the aim of supporting improvements in land use and farm practices.

Livestock Access and Watercourses
The EA have noticed across the catchment there has been an increase in animals accessing watercourses. They wanted to remind farmers that under Farming Rule for Water FRfW this should be minimised where possible and watercourses should ideally be fenced.

Livestock entering rivers can contribute to water quality issues, including increased nutrient loading. The EA are encouraging farmers to prioritise measures to reduce direct access, bank damage and deposition.

Maize Cropping on Slopes and Near Watercourses
The EA has also highlighted concerns around maize being grown in higher risk fields. Again under FRfW it is advised to use measures to mitigate soil run-off during the growing season and after harvest

They have indicated that these fields will be monitored post harvest and are encouraging farmers to consider practical steps to reduce soil loss, such as establishing or increasing uncultivated margins or installing sediment traps.

Members may wish to refer to Regulation 10 of The Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018 for further detail.

Any queries around this information please contact [email protected]

Fly‑tipping continues to affect farmers and rural communities across Dorset, placing an unnecessary burden on landowners who are often left to deal with waste dumped on fields, tracks, and entrances. Dorset Council is intensifying its focus on tackling this issue, and members are encouraged to play their part by reporting all incidents promptly.

Dorset Council advises residents and landowners to record the location, take photographs where it is safe to do so, and avoid disturbing the waste. Reports help the council investigate, gather evidence, and take enforcement action where possible. 

This portal allows you to report fly‑tipping on public or private land within the Dorset Council area. Dorset Council will investigate all reports and arrange clearance where waste is found on public land. 

The NFU encourages all members to report every incident they encounter. The data Dorset Council collects plays a vital role in identifying hotspots, understanding trends, targeting enforcement, and reducing the cost and disruption caused by illegal waste dumping across the county.

If members need further guidance, Dorset Council’s Environmental Health team, including officers such as Chris Burch, remain key contacts for waste-related enquiries and can support cases where repeated fly‑tipping is impacting farm businesses.

Farm Watch is a community-led initiative designed to reduce rural crime and protect farms, equipment, and livestock. Similar to a neighbourhood watch, it encourages farmers, landowners, and rural residents to work together, share information, and report suspicious activity. By creating a strong network, Farm Watch helps deter theft, vandalism, and other crimes that threaten livelihoods.

Members receive alerts about local incidents, crime trends, and security advice, often through text messages, emails, or social media. This rapid communication ensures everyone stays informed and can act quickly to safeguard property. Farm Watch also collaborates with local police, improving response times and increasing the chances of recovering stolen goods.

Joining Farm Watch is simple and highly effective. It strengthens community ties, promotes vigilance, and provides peace of mind. For members, it’s an essential step toward protecting valuable assets and maintaining a safe environment.