Farmers and growers need more reliable access to water as drought and extreme weather continues to put pressure on UK food production, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has warned.

The call comes as drought has been declared in parts of the country following a third heatwave, with the UK also marking 50 years since the drought of 1976.

The NFU said farmers are facing more periods of extreme weather with data from 10-year survey finding that 70 per cent of farmers had seen an increase in heatwaves and heat stress.

The organisation is calling for changes to help farmers prepare for future dry periods, including making it easier to build on-farm reservoirs and improve water storage.

It wants the government, Environment Agency and water companies to create a risk register for farms that are particularly dependent on reliable water supplies, including livestock, poultry and horticultural businesses.

The NFU is also calling for better communication about water levels and restrictions, including flexible abstraction licences, and the opening of  the Water Management Grant, which would provide financial support for farmers investing in on-farm reservoirs.

NFU deputy president Paul Tompkins “Farmers and growers have always had to contend with the weather, but what they are experiencing now is climate change in action.

“Across every sector and every part of the country, farmers and growers are seeing first-hand the impact of dry weather and drought, with more extreme conditions making it harder, riskier and more costly to produce the nation’s food.

“This should matter to everyone. Water is a vital ingredient in food production, and without a secure supply, we cannot build resilient farm businesses or strengthen the country’s food security.

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