In this post, we explain the new bluetongue reporting measures in England, steps livestock keepers can take to protect their animals, and how farmers can access support through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.
Almost three-quarters of land in England is now in drought after experiencing record-low rainfall and unusually high temperatures. As the dry weather looks set to persist, we've gathered information and resources to help farmers and growers.
Together with the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), we've created a series of step-by-step guides to help livestock keepers apply for the Annual Health and Welfare Review, a funded annual vet visit, and the endemic disease follow-up visit.
We're consulting on proposed mandatory animal health and welfare rules for cattle, sheep and pig farms, covering yearly vet visits, flock and herd plans and disease control programmes. The consultation closes on 18 May. A one hour webinar on 2 April at 11am will help you prepare your response.
Applications for the next round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF 2026) open on 17 March. The guidance is now live, and we’re hosting a webinar to help you prepare.
Each month, we bring together the latest policy updates, funding opportunities, consultations, research and statistics, helping you stay informed about the issues that matter to you.
7 October Dairy Show at The Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset.
10 October Alwinton Show at Gallow Law, Alwinton, Northumberland.
Find a list of the other shows and events we’re attending in 2026
Drought is putting real pressure on farmers this year. The Environment Agency is giving farmers greater flexibility by letting existing abstraction licence holders start refilling their water storage reservoirs early, a month ahead of usual schedule. This temporary change runs from 1 October to 31 October.
We recognise the difficulty in getting a long duration abstraction licence and the blocker this presents to long-term investment in sustainable abstraction practices.
As part of the package announced on 1 October to support farmers to access water, the Environment Agency have made it easier for those who don’t currently have an abstraction license to apply for licences that better support long-term investment.
Full details of the changes and information on how to be compliant can be found on the Environment Agency blog.
This week is National Young Farmers Week. Visit the NFYFC website for details on how to take part in the club scarecrow-building challenge, the YFC Food Drop, and show your support on social media.
If you are ordering fertiliser for the coming season, check that it can be stored safely and securely before delivery. The action you need to take depends on the type and quantity of fertiliser.
Follow the relevant guidance to protect people, prevent contamination or deterioration, and meet the rules for storing ammonium nitrate and other substances.
Read the AIC’s guide to storing, handling & transporting ammonium nitrate and the HSE’s steps to take.
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
Read the new guidance to understand what the changes could mean for your business and how to prepare.
