The irrigation prospects for England in 2024 are ‘good’ due to above-average rainfall over winter and early spring, leading to a healthy water resources position.
England experienced its wettest October – March period on record, with January to March 2024 rainfall at 151% of the long-term average.
This has resulted in well-recharged reservoir stocks and above-normal river and groundwater levels, even causing flooding in some areas.
Despite the favourable conditions, irrigators are encouraged to take precautionary measures to safeguard summer supplies, including:
- Maximising reservoir refill during high flows.
- Contacting authorities if experiencing refill problems.
- Planning crops to accommodate potential reduced water availability.
The current wet conditions are expected to continue into May, particularly in the south, while the north may experience relatively drier weather.
Temperatures are initially forecasted to be below average but should return to normal as the month progresses.
The abundance of water may impact the growing season this year. The Environment Agency is engaging with partners to support the agricultural sector.
More detailed area-specific irrigation prospects are available in a separate document on the Farming Advice Service website.
For further information, farmers can consult the water situation reports for England on the government’s website and weather forecasts from the Met Office.
Guidance is also available regarding abstraction during prolonged dry weather.
Read the full, irrigation prospects document at: farmadviceservice.org.uk.
