Water
Focus on efficiency to make most from water
F
armers are being reminded to think about water effi ciency and keep an eye out for shortages
during hot weather. Record temperatures last month
saw water companies advise livestock producers to check regularly for leaks in pipes and troughs and try to pin- point any areas of low pressure. Farmers who found themselevs
out of water should try to identify the issue fi rst, said Severn Trent catch- ment management adviser Jodie Ret- tino. “Think about where the source is, whether it’s localised and if your neigh- bours are also affected. “As soon as you’ve established this, get on the phone to your water retailer or wholesaler to advise them of your problem and they will do their best to get water to you. The next step is to minimise non-essential water use. “Finally, it’s extremely useful to know how much water you use, as if
your water company can help, having this information will mean you receive adequate volumes, without wasting the precious resource that could be in need elsewhere.” The Met Offi ce says there is clear evidence that temperatures are on the rise for good due to climate change. This means it is important to be prepared for prolonged dry spells in future – including by investing in on- farm infrastructure.
“There is no time like the present to
consider how making investments now could result in improved water effi cien- cy and environmental improvements, which in the long term should help pre- vent shortages and save money. “A rainwater harvesting system in- stalled this autumn will collect water over the spring that can then be treated on-site to reduce reliance on mains wa- ter over the summer, giving you peace of mind during future dry spells.”
ALLAN COLLYER land drainage contractors
& SONS LTD
WATER WHEN & HOW YOUR CROPS NEED IT
Precision farming requires precision drainage (with RTK GPS mapping and machine control)
Cost effective land drainage Most modern equipment Excavations & precision levelling
High Street, Ilketshall St Margaret, Bungay, Suffolk NR35 1NA
Contact Chris or Colin 01986 781404
www.collyerdrainage.co.uk AUGUST 2021 •ANGLIA FARMER 45
• Booms for lane widths 10 - 96 metres • Hosereels from 150 - 750m pipe length • JCB-engined, silenced pumpsets • Raindancer remote monitoring & control • Fixtures, fittings, pipework and more...
visit our website:
briggsirrigation.co.uk call us on 01536 260338
or email:
enquiries@briggsirrigation.co.uk Top tips for water effi ciency
– Clean water troughs so capacity is not compromised – Closely monitor for signs of heat stress in livestock – Locate drinking troughs near the bottom of the fi eld – Don’t cross connect bore holes with mains water – Organise a back-up storage tank or water bowser – Ensure all pumps are serviced and in good order
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