A catchment management scheme to improve the quality of the water in the River Ouse has been officially launched in a partnership between South East Water, Natural England and farmers – the first year of the scheme has focussed on metaldehyde in slug pellets.

The aim of the project, entitled the Ouse Upstream Thinking Project, is to find ways to prevent artificial fertiliser, pesticides and soil washing from fields into the river - removing these substances at the water treatment works is very costly. It also costs farmers money as they are losing valuable resources.

Representatives from South East Water and Natural England have met with the farming community at Cockhaise Farm, in Sussex, which has been one of the pioneers of the work.

Simon Lohrey, Catchment Management Lead at South East Water said:

“The day was a chance to explain the practical steps which can be taken to reduce unwanted substances from getting in to the water in the first place. It can be as simple as calibrating machines properly so that pesticides and fertilisers are spread only where it’s needed or putting sediment traps in place to prevent run off from fields. We want to work with farmers to provide the best solutions for their needs.”

Charles Chantler, Catchment Officer, from Natural England said:

“In this first year of the project, we have been focusing on metaldehyde, the active ingredient in most slug pellets. We are offering incentives to farmers willing to take part in land trials of the alternative - ferric phosphate pellets. We are also providing free advice and training and capital grant schemes to all farmers within priority areas.”

James Seymour Area Manager, Natural England added:

“The Launch of our pioneering partnership is already demonstrating that by working together, not only will the water quality and biodiversity of the river benefit, but farmers and land managers can improve the performance of their business and save money. To quote the project strap-line ‘Protecting water and efficient farming go hand in hand’”.