FWAG Cymru - Environment Agency Demonstration Day

There's Money in Manure

"What is manure worth?" was one of the questions asked of the farmers who attended a FWAG Cymru-Environment Agency demonstration day held at Plasauduon, Clatter near Newtown on Thursday, 6^th December; by kind permission of Mr Phil Breese & family.

The torrential rain and waterlogged soils provided an ideal backdrop to the discussions on the day which revolved around reducing diffuse pollution to the Carno & its tributaries, from agricultural sources. Despite, or perhaps, because of the inclement weather, the event was very well attended with over 50 people there in total. 

The day was the culmination of two River Catchment Diffuse Pollution Projects, funded by the Environment Agency and based on the Afon Carno and Afon Mule. The projects focused on improving the water quality in the rivers and their tributaries and highlighted how good environmental management can actually save the farm money.

FWAG Cymru Farm Conservation Advisers visited 23 farms in the Carno area and 12 in the Mule region to discuss matters relating to reducing agricultural pollution. Many of the farmers visited attended the day at Plasauduon and spoke highly of the advice they had received, particularly in the light of cross compliance regulations.

The day itself included presentations and demonstrations by Environment Agency staff and Chris Duller of IGER, on how good muck management and making the most of the nutrients in slurries and manures can reduce the amount of chemical fertiliser the farm needs the buy.

Chris Duller went on to answer the question he posed "How much is a bucket of muck worth?", as he wielded a red bucket full of fresh manure! He explained that its value is increasing with the cost of fertiliser escalating, and highlighted the importance of applying the right amount of manure at the right time within the grass growing season to ensure that the nutrients in it are taken up by the grass, and not washed directly into the streams.

Phil Breese, explained the advantages of his relatively new sheep dipping facility in that it kept the amount of spent dip to a minimum whilst the dip being used in the tub was kept cleaner than within his old system.  This was due to the fact that he had a mesh floor installed within the collecting pen, which ensures that much of the muck from his sheep's feet is deposited here, so reducing the amount going into the tub. The whole sheep handling area at Plasauduon is roofed, reducing the amount off run-off.  The Environment Agency also explained how to reduce the risk of pollution from the farmyard, and FWAG Cymru staff discussed various aspects of the Tir Cynnal and Tir Gofal agri-environmental schemes.

Richard Dearing, Catchment Officer with the Environment Agency said "We are delighted to support this project which has been run by FWAG Cymru on our behalf. The Environment Agency is committed to working with farmers to reduce diffuse pollution and to create a healthier environment for all.  Diffuse pollution is not always easily recognisable.  Quantities from individual farms are small, but it's the combined effect that can harm the environment. These projects have been resounding successes, and demonstrate the agricultural community's commitment to the environment.  I very much appreciate the spirit of co-operation engendered between the Carno & Mule farmers, FWAG Cymru and ourselves".

Glenda Thomas, Director of FWAG Cymru added "The project has highlighted once again, the commitment farmers have to looking after all aspects of the environment on their farms. FWAG Cymru are delighted to be able to support farmers in continuing to achieve this, and very much appreciate the hard work the Breese family put into hosting the day.