Catchment Sensitive Farming

Farming to protect the River Nidd

A new project is underway in Nidderdale AONB to help reduce diffuse water pollution in the River Nidd.

The Nidderdale Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) project provides support to farmers and land managers, helping them to make changes to farming practices in order to reduce diffuse pollution, which can be caused by pesticide, fertiliser and manure usage, soil erosion and the breakdown of moorland peat.

The project provides:

Free one to one advice leading to preparation of free Whole Farm Plans (with recommendations on nutrient and manure management) to show how farm businesses can save money and reduce diffuse water pollution
Small capital grants to help with implementing the Plans
Free advice and practical help with applications for Entry Level, Uplands Entry Level and Higher Level Environmental Stewardship

There are a series of free demonstrations and events taking place this autumn providing an opportunity to find out more about the project:

Thursday 29^th October Making Nidderdale's water safe to drink a guided tour of Headingley Water Treatment Works. Meeting at 5pm in Pateley Bridge. Places must be booked in advance but there is still time to make your reservation. To book your place please ring the AONB Office on 01423 712950.
Thursday 12^th November River sampling. Meet at 1.30pm at Pateley Bridge Showground car park.
Thursday 19^th November Catchment Sensitive Farming explained. 7.30pm at Pateley Bridge Auction Mart Rooms
Tuesday 24^th November Moorland Manger special Catchment Sensitive Farming explained. 7.30pm at The Crown Hotel, Middlesmoor
Thursday 26^th November Catchment Sensitive Farming explained. 7.30pm at Darley Memorial Hall

The CSF project is organised by a partnership involving Yorkshire Water, Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust, England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative (ECSFDI) and Nidderdale AONB. The partnership is adnministered by the AONB, which is providing on-farm support and advice alongside Yorkshire Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group.

If you would like more information on the project please contact Marian Wilby, the AONB's FWAG Farm Conservation Advisor on 01423 712950 or 07713 333187.