The HSE figures have been published today as part of Farm Safety Week, which is designed to highlight the risks farmers face every day.
The number of fatal accidents over the past year was 29 – down from 36 in 2014/15.
NFU Vice President Guy Smith said: “While we welcome the improvement in the number of fatalities, we are very mindful of the personal loss and tragedy that are involved in these figures.
“What I find particularly depressing is that so many of these fatalities and accidents could be avoided. A quarter of the fatalities involve moving vehicles on farm. We are convinced that farmers and farm workers following some simple advice such as observing our safe stop recommendations could see these numbers fall even further.
“It should also be noted that an alarming half of the fatalities occur in the 65-plus age group.
“Agriculture is unique in the way it involves so many people who would in other industries be beyond the age of retirement. While agriculture is in many ways is richer for this, all ages must recognise that we are killing too many of our older generation.
“I call on young people in particular not to be reluctant to lecture their ‘olders and betters’ to take more care on farm.
“It should also be noted that accidents and fatalities peak in the summer months. As we enter the summer period all farmers and farm workers should bear that in mind.”