The NFU has released advice to growers following a report from the Environment Agency that indicates the drought situation remains precarious following the record-breaking dry conditions in the spring and heatwaves throughout the summer.
NFU vice-president Rachel Hallos, who hosted a multi-agency Water Summit on her farm in July, says: “The unprecedented dry conditions this year have been extremely challenging for many farmers and growers, and this new report from the Environment Agency confirms we must now fully prepare ourselves for more of the same heading into 2026 and beyond.
“A good start would be more flexibility with abstraction licences, including extensions to winter licences, so if it rains after March next year and water is available, anyone with a reservoir can take the water they need.”
She adds that tax breaks could encourage investment in water management, calling for the Annual Investment Allowance to be enhanced so that growers are incentivised to invest in on-farm water storage.
“As we concluded at this summer’s NFU Water Summit, communication is also so important. Conversations must continue so we have a joined-up approach that allows us to collaborate better with government and its agencies, local authorities, the supply chain and water companies, to ensure our farming businesses remain resilient, have access to a clean supply of water and can maintain the country’s food security.”