Drainage experts help rejuvenate waterlogged fields

Farmers are invited to attend a special Land Drainage Hub hosted by the National Association of Agricultural Contractors at Cereals.

Experts will be on hand on both days of the two-day event to pinpoint the best way for growers to upgrade drainage following one of the wettest seasons in living memory.

Building blocks

With recent waterlogged fields still fresh in farmers’ minds, the ‘Conversation about Drainage’ will take place adjacent to the NAAC Land Drainage Hub. It will feature companies who are experts in field and land drainage, explains NAAC chief executive Jill Hewitt.

“The benefits of drainage are proven, but the main obstacle is the investment cost. Drainage is the building block of all soil management, and we will be calling for a government review to incentivise drainage to benefit productivity, flood protection and profitability.”

The exhibition will include a demonstration area, hosting a drainage trencher and plough. Visitors will get to learn how the machines differ and operate, alongside a topical discussion on the importance of drainage.

NAAC Land Drainage chairman Rob Burtonshaw, of agricultural contractors Farm Services, said, “We will be challenging the devastating impacts of climate change by looking how to offset increases in rainfall with appropriate water management systems.

“The past year has highlighted the vital importance of well drained land, and we have all seen the impact on improved trafficability, crop growth and yields.”

Other speakers will include George Firth, of trenching and drainage specialists Lincolnshire Drainage.

Meanwhile, Midland farmer Will Oliver will review the impact of drainage on his land on the  Leicestershire/Warwickshire border.

Topics to include

• Why bother with drainage?

• How drainage helps soil structure

• DIY or get a contractor in?

• Costs and return on investment

• Where to start a drainage scheme

• Do we need government funding?