Your Dorset county NFU update

West Dorset Wilding is currently consulting on proposals to apply for a licence to release beavers into the Brit catchment, potentially from autumn 2027. The proposal forms part of the Landscape Recovery Brit Valley Project and would involve the release of around eight adult beaver pairs over a three year period. 

The NFU is keen to ensure that farmers and landowners have the opportunity to feed into this consultation. While beavers can provide environmental benefits, their presence can also have significant implications for farming businesses.

The consultation organisers have specifically asked for feedback on:

• Concerns that may not have been addressed in the consultation information.
• Specific locations where beaver activity could create conflicts or management challenges.
• Reasons for support, concern, or opposition to the proposal. 

The proposal area includes the River Brit and its tributaries, including the Simene, Mangerton Brook and Asker catchments.

You can find information about the project and complete the consultation survey on the West Dorset Wilding website.

If you want to contact the project for more information and a conversation as needed, email [email protected].

If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].

The consultation closes at the end of August. 

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme provides grants to both farmers and land managers within the Dorset National Landscape to support projects that; enhance nature recovery and biodiversity; help tackle and adapt to climate change; improve public access and understanding of the rural heritage and support sustainable and nature-friendly farm businesses.

The project must also help to deliver a minimum of one of the Dorset National Landscape Management Plan Priorities, the full details of which can be found on the website. 

Since 2021, FiPL has invested £3 million in 220 projects across Dorset supporting climate, nature, people and place outcomes. Visit the website to learn more about eligibility, funding windows, payment rates and the application process.

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]

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.