Ben Andrews
I am the fourth-generation on our tenanted farm in North Herefordshire, located on the banks of the River Arrow. The farm has been certified organic by the Soil Association for over 20 years. However, it is only in recent years that my interest in the dynamic relationship between farming and the environment has begun to develop.
Farming on a floodplain has always presented challenges, but in recent years, the frequency, depth, and duration of flooding on our land has increased significantly. As a former rower on the River Wye, just a few miles downstream, and an environmentalist as well as being a farmer, I am also aware of the impact farming practices can have on river health, particularly in relation to diffuse agricultural pollution.
To address these concerns, I have enrolled our farm in Wyescapes, a Landscape Recovery Scheme involving 50 holdings across 5,000 hectares within the River Wye catchment. The project aims to create habitats, enhance biodiversity, and improve water quality, while supporting sustainable food production. While UK agriculture is renowned for producing food to some of the highest global standards, we also rank among the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Given that over 70% of our land is used for farming, the agricultural sector is uniquely positioned to lead efforts in restoring nature and reversing environmental decline.
Flooding and Diffuse Agricultural Pollution: Agriculture's role in the causes and solutions.
NFU Mutual Charitable Trust
Study Overview
Few topics in agriculture are as emotive and divisive as finding solutions to flooding, addressing water pollution from the sector, and defining farmers' riparian responsibilities.
Through my research, I aim to explore how changes in farming practices and land use can mitigate flooding and improve water quality, while assessing the impact of these changes on agricultural productivity. Equally important will be examining how land managers, environmental groups, government bodies, and other stakeholders—often with differing views—have collaborated to implement effective changes across their catchment. Additionally, I intend to investigate the funding mechanisms behind these initiatives and evaluate why certain schemes may have been ineffective, ensuring that financial resources are used efficiently and deliver tangible results.
I would like to thank the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust for their sponsorship and support.