NFU seeks action to deal with drought

WITH a real danger of widespread drought across England lasting into 2026 without significant rain over the winter, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) says flexibility, investment and communication are vital, so that farmers and growers have access to water to continue producing food for the nation.

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The Environment Agency's Drought Prospects report, published last Friday, warns that the drought situation across the country is precarious, following a record dry spring and a continued run of heatwaves throughout the summer.

‘The sustained spell of dry weather during 2025 resulted in a challenging harvest with many arable farmers experiencing significant reductions in both yield and quality which hit cashflows and contributed to the already significant financial pressures on farming businesses.

Grass growth has also been hit leading to reduced feed for livestock, while crops such as onions and potatoes were also impacted, the union has stated.