Farmers across Britain are experimenting with new methods to tackle drought and flooding, as the country experiences more extreme weather. This summer's heatwaves and drought conditions have presented significant challenges for food producers, particularly for crops typically suited to the UK's traditional climate.
The hot and dry weather has led to the earliest UK cereals harvest in at least two decades, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. The lack of rainfall has also affected vegetable quality, with cauliflowers appearing yellow, cucumbers misshapen, and broccoli undersized, resulting in increased vegetable imports this summer.
While some farmers have installed reservoirs, others are exploring more novel solutions. In south Cambridgeshire, arable farmer Martin Lines has focused on improving soil health to increase water retention and creating water storage through rainwater harvesting. He also suggests smarter management of river flows, with farmers being alerted when there is excess water to pump.
In Kent, James Smith of West Pikefish Farm is transforming an old orchard into ponds and wetland features to store 4 million litres of water for summer irrigation. This system also helps manage winter flooding. The project, however, faces delays due to planning consents and surveys, with work now expected to begin next year.
Farmers are also diversifying their crops. Martin Lines is looking at crops grown in Europe, such as sunflowers and soya beans, and believes legumes could offer a solution due to their requirement for hot, dry conditions. Researchers like Professor Pete Iannetta from the James Hutton Institute suggest increasing legume cultivation in the UK, noting that crops like chickpeas are becoming more viable in southern England.
In Cornwall, beef farmer Chris Jones has managed to keep his cattle grazing despite intense heat and minimal rain since June, partly due to planting more trees and practicing rotational grazing. He also benefits from a family of beavers within an enclosure on his farm.