The latest Environment Agency (EA) report recorded 42 incidents in 2019 compared to 77 in 2018. This represents a 45% year-on-year decline and a 75%-plus reduction on 2000 levels.
Around a half of the incidents in 2019 occurred on dairy farms but this number also fell for the fourth successive year.
Dramatic decline
An even more dramatic decline was seen in the intensive pig and poultry sectors – the only farming sectors that currently require a permit – where the number of incidents fell by 85%, from 26 in 2018 to just four in 2019.
Working together
An advice-led approach to enforcement, with financial support where appropriate, is enabling farmers to make significant environmental gains.
While one serious pollution incident is one too many, these latest figures go to show what farmers and the regulator can achieve if they work together.
Where to go for help
If you have concerns about possible breaches in EA pollution rules contact your regional environment adviser or, if you are not a NFU member contact your Catchment Sensitive Farming Officer.