In this episode of Rising Waters, hosts Stephanie and Frayer are joined by Alex from the Environment Agency’s agriculture team and William, a farmer. Together they discuss the challenges farmers face around flooding and the impact this has on soil, crops and livestock. The importance of community resilience is also highlighted, as well as a sharing of knowledge on how to better navigate the consequences of flooding.

Actionable Insights:

Flooding Challenges Farmers Face:

The devastating impact on crops and livestock due to fields being flooded for longer periods of time and how this loss of nutrients through floodwater washes away fertilizers and pesticides.

Financial Loss & Stress

How financial losses from crop loss and difficulty managing livestock can create stress on farmers and their business, and how this devastating impact can take a toll on their business and livelihood.

How Farmers are Adapting:

A look into how, by improving drainage systems and infrastructure, water can flow away in a more efficient manner, and how soil health and water retention can be improved through practices such as reduced tillage and direct drilling.

Community:

How support from the local farming community, both mental and physical, can foster further resilience both during and after flood events. Plus, a deep dive into how online resources such as the National Farmer’s Union can provide farms with much needed help and support.