How could technology solve farming's challenges with water?

Environment and climate
Mark Betson

Mark Betson

National Water Resources Specialist

The Innovation Discussion Group sat on haystacks

The Innovation Discussion Group at the NFU Water Summit, 'Delivering clean water for food security' on NFU Vice- president Rachel Hallos farm in Ripponden. Photograph: Kate Mallendon

Weather extremes of drought and flooding are becoming more pronounced and farmers are adapting to become more resilient, whether that's by improving water storage or using technology to apply water more effectively. NFU Water Resources Specialist Mark Betson explores how innovation could be the answer to some of these challenges. 

You often hear about the productivity challenges facing the UK and how new technology could be the answer to it.

A government report, published in April this year, concluded that ‘there are significant benefits of early technological adoption on productivity, which can persist for years after initial adoption’.

These benefits can be more pronounced for smaller firms.

“Flexible and agile regulation that is backed up by data could unlock many of the challenges we have with water.”

NFU Water Resources Specialist Mark Betson

Technology use on farm

One of the three areas of discussion at the NFU's summit on water, held on NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos's farm last month, was the use of innovation in overcoming some of the challenges with water the farming industry faces at the moment.


Ask us a question about this page

Once you have submitted your query someone from NFU CallFirst will contact you. If needed, your query will then be passed to the appropriate NFU policy team.

You have 0 characters remaining.

By completing the form with your details on this page, you are agreeing to have this information sent to the NFU for the purposes of contacting you regarding your enquiry. Please take time to read the NFU’s Privacy Notice if you require further information.