Catchment Sensitive Farming

Nidderdale Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) Partnership Project

The aim of this project is to encourage agricultural management practices that reduce diffuse water pollution caused by:

  • Fertiliser and manure/slurry use
  • Erosion of bare soil that results in siltation of watercourses
  • Breakdown of moorland peat leading to increased water colour
  • Pesticides

The project will support farmers and land managers and help them to make changes to farming practices which reduce and mitigate the impact of diffuse pollution. The CSF 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
  • Free demonstrations, events and farm walks

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

You can also download an application form and guidance notes here. 

This 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 administered by the AONB, which is providing on-farm support and advice alongside Yorkshire Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group.

Further infomation about the England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative (ECSFDI) can be found at www.defra.gov.uk/farm/environment/water/csf