Updated prospects for irrigation – we want to hear from you

22 October 2024

Environment and climate
Irrigating crops at Methwold Hythe in Norfolk

The Environment Agency is updating its prospects for spray irrigation looking beyond 2024 and is seeking feedback to improve the information it gives. Fill in our form by 1 November to have your say.

The EA (Environment Agency) is looking for feedback regarding the usefulness and improvements to its irrigation prospects – forecasts for 2024 that are published as part of the Farm Advisory Service.

The report, aimed at providing farmers, water managers, and policy makers with an updated assessment of water availability for irrigation, helps to assist planning and decision-making, ensuring efficient water use and mitigating the impacts of potential water shortages.

Have your say

We are seeking feedback from members on several key questions posed by the EA.

Your insights on these topics will help shape the future of irrigation prospects on farm. Fill in our form below before 1 November to have your say. You can also jump further down the page to read our summary of the prospects.

Fill out my online form.

18 October 2024

Environment Agency seeks feedback on its irrigation prospects document

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.

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