Why it’s essential that Yorkshire farmers adopt a proactive and preventative approach to managing silage - Harry Appleton-Metcalfe

Environmental reports, including the Rivers Trust’s annual ‘State of Our Rivers’, highlight the pressing need for action with agricultural pollution remaining a major contributor to the sub-standard quality of waterways across the country.

With approximately 62 per cent of rivers failing to meet required standards because of activities attributed to agriculture and rural land management, the urgency for conscientious farming practices is clear.

Given the severity of the potential environmental impact, it is essential that farmers adopt a proactive and preventative approach to managing silage.

Effective management begins with a thorough inspection and maintenance of silage clamps before the season’s first cut. Ensuring the integrity of these clamps – and all associated drainage systems – is crucial to prevent the escape of harmful effluents into nearby streams and rivers.

Farmers should check the robustness of storage floors, promptly repair any cracks and ensure that wall coatings and protective films are intact and effective.

It is also vital to thoroughly clean and flush collection channels and drains prior to filling clamps. Such practices not only help identify and address leaks or blockages early but also prevent effluent from contaminating waterways. After the clamp is filled, ongoing vigilance is crucial.

Consideration should be given to introducing vegetated buffer zones between silage storage areas and waterways, which can help to reduce the risks of pollution. These areas can help filter runoff and absorb potential contaminants before they reach water.

Regular monitoring of effluent levels and inspection of nearby watercourses for signs of pollution are important further steps in early detection and mitigation of potential leaks.

Such efforts are essential, not just for environmental protection, but also to avoid the severe financial penalties associated with pollution incidents. Recently fines have ranged from £5,000 to £20,000.

The potential for pollution, while significant, is matched by the capacity for Yorkshire farmers to lead the way in agricultural environmental management. By implementing rigorous silage management practices, they can significantly mitigate the risks and help protect the environment.

Collaboration between farmers, local authorities and environmental agencies can further enhance the effectiveness of these measures.

Understanding and complying with the legal framework surrounding agricultural pollution is also crucial. Farmers should stay informed about Environment Agency regulations and guidelines, which detail specific requirements and silage storage best practices.

As stewards of the land, farmers have both the opportunity and the obligation to safeguard the environment.

Harry Appleton-Metcalfe works at agricultural insurance broker Lycetts.