Defra has opened a consultation around new rules to improve water quality, reduce pollution in rivers and, it claims, give farmers more confidence.
41% of England’s rivers, lakes and streams are currently affected by agricultural pollution, and Defra aims to provide stronger protection through increased oversight on sewage sludge spreading.
Options include bringing sludge spreading under the Environmental Permitting Regulations.
At the same time, existing agricultural water rules will be simplified, cutting duplication and complexity and making it easier to understand.
The proposals are part of the government’s Environmental Improvement Plan and the Water White Paper – a major overhaul of how England’s water system is regulated and managed.
Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “By setting clearer guidelines and providing better support, we’re making it simpler for farmers to meet standards, farm sustainably and protect our environment.”