FUW URGES FARMERS TO SPEAK OUT ON WATER POLLUTION ISSUES

Farmers in Wales were urged today to get involved in the Environment Agency Wales (EAW) consultation exercise into river pollution issues affecting agriculture.

"EAW is keen to engage agricultural specialists, key industry advisors and the wider farming community in a series of workshops to explore diffuse pollution issues relevant to agriculture affecting the water environment in Wales," said Farmers' Union of Wales senior policy officer Rhian Nowell-Phillips.

Living Waters for Wales is a six-month consultation, which ends next month, in which draft River Basin Management Plans for the Dee, Western Wales and the Severn identify the best ways to create a better water environment.

"As there are implications for farmers it is important that we engage in the consultation process so that we can use local knowledge to identify target areas for priority or concerted action; deliver improvements to the plans; and help identify alternative measures if a particular issue appears to be disproportionately costly," said Ms Nowell-Phillips.

"For the first time ever, all issues affecting water can be addressed together to find shared solutions for improving water quality, supply, flood risk and reducing pollution. Water quality in Wales has improved considerably over the past 20 years but more still needs to be done.

"This is a great opportunity for farmers to be involved and ensure their water environment reaches an even higher standard."

The Better Waters for Wales workshops will take place on May 18 at the FUW head office at Llys Amaeth, Plas Gogerddan, Aberystwyth; on May 20 at Glyndwr University, Mold Road, Wrexham; and on May 27 at Gelli Aur College Farm, Gelli Aur, Llandeilo.

Places are limited so to reserve your place contact Lynda Bigland on 01244 894554 or email lynda.bigland@environment-agency.gov.uk A detailed programme for the day will be sent to attendees nearer the time.

If you are unable to attend the workshops, you can complete an e-consultation response by going to www.environment-agency.gov.uk/wfd.

Should you require any information, contact Jill Brown on 02920 4166134 or in writing at Environment Agency Wales, Ty Cambria, 29 Newport Road, Cardiff CF24 OTP.