TOP TIPS If You're Considering Rainwater Harvesting

PROTECTION OF WATER RESOURCES
Water is a key ‘public good’ listed under the Government’s 25 Year
Environment Plan. Responsible use of crop protection products, and
reduced reliance on them, both have a key role to play in maintaining
and improving water resource quality on and near our farms.

Climate change brings with it the likelihood of increased instances of
extreme weather, including more occurrences of both drought and
flooding events.

Improving the farm’s general environmental resilience can help
to reduce the impact that these more frequent severe weather events
might have. 

The introduction of rainwater harvesting systems is one way that the farm’s vital water resources can be preserved.

They have the obvious draw of mains water savings for those with indoor cattle, pigs or poultry, but faster sprayer filling, fewer spray pump and line problems in hard water areas and no need for water conditioners, are now also providing additional arable attractions in the drive towards greater sustainability.

TOP TIPS IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING RAINWATER HARVESTING

1. Check on the availability of grants under Countryside Stewardship and the newly emerging ELMS;
2. Match tank capacity carefully to roof area and local rainfall;
3. Site tanks conveniently for both the buildings serving them and sprayer access;
4. Place above-ground tanks on a solid concrete;
5. Install good quality filters to intercept debris and help oxygenate the water;
6. Employ calmed inlets to prevent incoming water disturbing any sediment;
7. Leave enough space between the guttering and top of the tank for the filter; and,
8. Check what, if any, legislative requirements may be involved.

We can help with all of the above – please get in touch.