Irrigation Prospects Report – June 2025
The latest Irrigation Prospects Report was published in June 2025, offering vital guidance for farmers navigating one of the most challenging years in recent memory. With prolonged dry weather across much of England, water resources are stretched, and farmers are facing tough decisions around irrigation.
For many, careful water management could be the difference between safeguarding yields and facing significant crop losses.
Current Abstraction Restrictions
As of August, more than 1,100 hands off flow restrictions are in force on abstraction licences. These require licence holders to reduce or stop taking water when river flows fall below set levels.
In East Anglia, the Environment Agency has also requested voluntary reductions in surface water abstraction to help conserve supplies and delay the need for stricter bans. Section 57 spray irrigation restrictions are under review, particularly in areas where flows remain low.
Why Water Efficiency Matters
Irrigation is essential for crops like potatoes, root vegetables, and salads, but with reservoirs under pressure, water efficiency has never been more critical. Farmers are encouraged to:
- Invest in precision irrigation systems.
- Schedule irrigation at night or early morning to reduce evaporation losses.
- Work with neighbouring farms to coordinate abstraction.
- Consider drought-resistant crop varieties for future planning.
Support Available
The Environment Agency’s Dry Weather Farming Blog and Engagement HQ webpage provide regular updates on restrictions and available support. Farmers can also request flexible abstraction licences, which allow greater adaptability in extreme conditions.
Looking Ahead
With autumn and winter rainfall uncertain, reservoir recharge is a major concern. Farmers are being advised to plan ahead, manage resources carefully, and explore long-term solutions to build water resilience.
Read the full report here: Farming Advice Service – Irrigation Prospects
