Patrick’s story
Patrick shows how buffer strips add value to his business.
We’ve taken away some of our least productive land, we’ve made the field more efficient, and we’re increasing our average yield for every field because we’re only farming the bits that we should be. This is a system that really benefits our more modern approach to farming.
Patrick Barker, arable farmer, Suffolk
Buffer strips on cultivated land, in fields and alongside watercourses bring several business benefits:
- Prevent soil erosion and runoff of sediment, pesticides and nutrients.
- Increase crop yields by conserving moisture in the soil.
- Introduce integrated pest management into farming systems which can reduce reliance on costly pesticides.
- Act as natural filters to reduce the risk of water pollution from agriculture.
- Protect and enhance wildlife habitats.
Healthy soil and clean water are as essential for food production as they are in restoring nature.
Receive free, expert guidance
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) provides free, impartial and confidential advice to farmers across England to produce food in a way that protects water, air and soil.
It’s a partnership delivered locally through Natural England, and is made up of CSF advisers who work directly with the local landscape and your farm’s individual needs.
Contact Catchment Sensitive Farming: use the CSF advice form and send it to your local team. CSF will reply based on environmental priorities in your area and will arrange one of the following:
- Arrange a one to one consultation with your local CSF advisor
- Invite you to a local event
- Link you to other sources of advice and information
Attend an upcoming event: see here for a series of upcoming, in person events organised by Defra and Natural England, focussing on buffering actions and soil health.
Visit this guidance: Pollution prevention rules for farmers. A guide to help you comply with the Farming Rules for Water, reduce your risk of causing water pollution.