Water quality – essential information

Our range of resources, advice and guidance supporting the work that NFU members are doing out on their farms shows the difference we can all make to improve water quality on our land. 

On this page:

Water quality matters to farmers and rural communities. It can also spark strong debate.

Farmers are often part of local conversations about river health and pollution. This page sets out clear facts on farming and water quality. It also tackles common misconceptions.

NFU members can use it to help respond to media coverage, social media posts and local concerns.

Monitoring water quality on farm

 

Environment Agency publishes its inaugural Agriculture Report

The Environment Agency has published its inaugural Agriculture Report, giving an overview of the environmental performance of the sector and showcasing how it helps farmers improve their environmental impact.

Commenting on the report NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins said: “Farmers and growers care deeply about the environment they live and work in. Producing high quality food and improving our water quality can and must go hand in hand.

“This report presents a picture of improving action on water quality, but it shows too the scale of the challenge remaining, as well as revealing that failures can be as simple as missing paperwork during an inspection.”

“Our message to government and EA is that targeted investment, advice and practical regulation will deliver the food the nation needs, as well as healthy waterways and an environment for all.”

NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins

Learn more of the NFU's reaction to the EA's report: What the EA’s water report means for farmers

Check out the latest regulation guidance

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Look at government advice and funding

Find out about what grant funding opportunities there are to help with water quality.

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Share our water quality resources 

When you are talking to your local press or schools, use this bank of resources to get the key facts across.

46% less nitrogen fertiliser 81% less phosphate fertiliser But achieving similar crop yields
Fertiliser application rates have been decreasing since the 80s

46% less nitrogen fertiliser 81% less phosphate fertiliser But achieving similar crop yields

29% less manure nutrients since 1990 Nutrients are used more efficiently Soil N balances reduced by 40% since 1990 Soil P balances reduced by 92% since 1990
Nutrient inputs from manure have decreased

29% less manure nutrients since 1990 Nutrients are used more efficiently Soil N balances reduced by 40% since 1990 Soil P balances reduced by 92% since 1990

72% of the farmed area covered by nutrient management plans 80% of the farmed area covered by manure management plans
Farmers plan nutrient applications

72% of the farmed area covered by nutrient management plans 80% of the farmed area covered by manure management plans

2 million hectares of farmed land covered by Integrated Pest Management plans Pesticide stewardship is highly professional 20,000 pesticide users undertaking Continuing Professional Development with the National Register of Sprayer Operators 16,000 sprayers and application equipment undergo National Sprayer Testing Scheme tests
Pesticide use is highly targeted

2 million hectares of farmed land covered by Integrated Pest Management plans Pesticide stewardship is highly professional 20,000 pesticide users undertaking Continuing Professional Development with the National Register of Sprayer Operators 16,000 sprayers and application equipment undergo National Sprayer Testing Scheme tests

4-12% average reduction in pollutant losses Farmers have implemented 60% of measures recommended by CSF Almost 20,000 farm holdings have received CSF advice
Catchment Sensitive Farming reduces agricultural pollution

4-12% average reduction in pollutant losses Farmers have implemented 60% of measures recommended by CSF Almost 20,000 farm holdings have received CSF advice
Over 850,000 hectares of farmed land are now under actions which are explictly targeted at water quality • 1,140,000 metres of ditches are being managed for water quality • 2,600 ponds are being managed for water quality • 3,200 farmers have reviewed their nutrient managament.
Increasing uptake of the Sustainable Farming Incentive

Over 850,000 hectares of farmed land are now under actions which are explictly targeted at water quality • 1,140,000 metres of ditches are being managed for water quality • 2,600 ponds are being managed for water quality • 3,200 farmers have reviewed their nutrient managament.

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NVZ grassland derogation application 2026

NVZ grassland derogation application 2026

Drought in December serious cause for concern

Drought in December serious cause for concern

Water reservoirs – advice and support

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Farming Rules for Water – what you need to know

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Updated water quality rules – what do they mean for farmers?
member exclusive

Updated water quality rules – what do they mean for farmers?

Strategic management of water in England and Wales – report published
member exclusive
Consultation

Strategic management of water in England and Wales – report published

Closed 23 April 2025