Regulation & Compliance
At Herefordshire Rural Hub, we work closely with the Environment Agency to help farmers better understand and meet their regulatory obligations on-farm.
Farm Inspections – What to Expect
The Environment Agency has recently released a new video that gives an inside look at what happens during a typical farm inspection. We understand that receiving an inspection letter can cause concern, but this video aims to dispel common myths and offer reassurance. It features three farms going through the inspection process, with honest feedback from the farmers and insights from Environment Agency officers explaining how they carry out their role.
If you’re expecting an inspection or have heard of others in your area being inspected, we highly recommend watching the video to gain a clearer idea of what to expect.
You can also read the Environment Agency’s helpful blog post: How to Prepare for an Inspection: A Farmer’s Guide.
Farming Rules for Water – Know Your Responsibilities
Recent farm inspections have revealed a number of non-compliances with the Farming Rules for Water, which were introduced in 2018. These rules set out minimum standards for managing soil, nutrients, and water on farms.
To support compliance, we’ve created a straightforward Farmer’s Guide and cab sticker highlighting key requirements in a clear and accessible way.
Printed copies will be available at upcoming local events, or you can download your copy here.
Managing Watercourses – When Do You Need Permission?
We’ve also seen an increase in enquiries around the management of watercourses and when permits or consents are needed.
To help clarify this, we’ve worked with the Environment Agency, Natural England, and the River Lugg Internal Drainage Board to produce a practical Watercourse Management Guide for farmers. This guide outlines what actions can be taken, and when permissions may be required.
Printed copies will be available at upcoming local events, or you can download your copy here.
Nutrient Management Planning – What’s Required and Why it Matters
As part of our ongoing support for the farming community, the Hub has developed a clear, easy-to-use guide to help farmers and advisers understand the key requirements of nutrient management planning and the practical benefits it brings to their land.
To help explain, we’ve worked with the Environment Agency to produce a informative Nutrient Management Planning Guide for farmers. This guide outlines what it is, the benefits, how to plan, what rules apply and frequently asked questions.
Printed copies will be available at upcoming local events, or you can download your copy here.
