The Environment Agency (EA) is urging farmers to begin preparations now for winter slurry storage and to contact the EA if they have any concerns.
Wet weather throughout the year has already pressured farms’ storage, making it crucial to have sufficient storage and a robust backup plan in place.
Even those who prepared last year faced storage issues, prompting the EA to step up support for farmers through another potentially difficult winter season.
The EA’s Winter Ready campaign will support farmers nationwide facing slurry storage issues. Farmers are encouraged to start their preparations now and seek advice from the EA if necessary.
For questions or concerns, farmers can contact their local EA Officer or call the EA’s National Customer Contact Centre hotline at 03708 506 506.
Here are some simple steps and solutions to tackle slurry storage issues:
Ensure adequate storage: Aim for six months of storage to comply with the Farming Rules for Water, allowing spreading only according to crop and soil need.
Cover slurry tanks: Use the summer months to fix drainage and clear guttering, ensuring separation of clean and dirty water to prevent rainwater from increasing slurry volume.
Manage by-products and waste: Avoid taking sludge, digestate, or other materials if not needed immediately. Producers must ensure proper disposal of all by-products and waste.
Nicola Riley, Environment Agency Deputy Director for Agriculture, said: “We know the profound impact that wet weather can have on farmers and their slurry storage. It is important that we help farmers get ready ahead of time by supplying guidance and practical solutions. That’s why we’re urging farmers to start their preparations now, with the Environment Agency on hand to help farmers find the right solutions that work for them.”
Defra has already offered a Slurry Infrastructure Grant to help farmers improve or expand slurry storage capacity and enhance the use of organic nutrients on their farms. Other support includes capital items available through Countryside Stewardship Capital Grants, such as slurry store covers, roofing, concrete yards, and drainage systems. A Catchment Sensitive Farming advisor can visit farms to provide advice on best utilization.