The Environment Agency will receive double the amount of funding from Defra, which is expected to increase inspections by around 50% to help farmers reduce agricultural pollution and clean up rivers, lakes and seas.
It expects to see inspections rise to 6,000 each year by 2029, providing greater access to guidance for growers, while also strengthening links with supply chains and farm networks.
The Environment Agency sends officers to farm to check compliance with environmental law. If rules are broken, then farmers will be given advice on how to fix this, and a written deadline to complete remedial work.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: “Farmers are key partners in protecting our rivers, lakes, and seas – and through our Plan for Change we’re backing them to do just that.
“By doubling funding for inspections, we’re ensuring that farmers receive better advice to help them reduce pollution and clean up our water ways for good”
In 2024/25, 6,242 actions were completed, such as improving fertiliser use, slurry storage, and soil testing. These changes help the environment and save farmers money. The 4,545 farm inspections last year are expected to bring even more benefits.
Inspections are prioritised at farms that present the highest risk to water quality, particularly in areas where rivers or groundwater have already been affected by agricultural activity, or where large volumes of slurry and waste are handled, such as dairy farms in protected catchments.
Agency Chief Executive Philip Duffy said: “Our role is to protect people and the environment which is why we are tackling all sources of water pollution, whether it’s from agriculture, the water industry or road-runoff.
“Many farmers share our desire for cleaner waterways and are already taking significant steps to reduce pollution and improve their environmental standards, and this increased support will help even more to do the same.”
“Our approach means farmers receive clear advice and practical steps, but where necessary we can and will take enforcement action.”