Defra is seeking to better understand and manage the impact of agricultural pollutants on rivers and waterways through a new £6.5 million, five year project
The Demonstration Test Catchments (DTC) project will analyse how pollutants from agricultural activity – such as fertiliser run off and drainage from farm yards – travels through the water system, and test up to 80 methods to reduce the impact of the pollution, such as better targeting of fertiliser using satellite technology, redesigning farmyards and use drainage ditches and ponds
The project is being carried out in partnership with 40 other organisations, scientists, farmers and industry groups, including the Environment Agency and Welsh Assembly Government.
Jim Paice, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food, said:
“This large-scale project will test how farmers can reduce their environmental footprint while continuing to farm profitably and productively.
“Most rivers are at risk from agricultural pollution and one-in-five currently do not reach the required quality standards, so this hugely important research will help farmers make the right decisions.”
Read the full release on the Defra website (opens in new window).
Source: Defra, 30/09/10