News

EU Consultation on the Soil Thematic Strategy

As stipulated in the 6th Environment Action Programme, the European Union has decided to adopt a Thematic Strategy on Soil Protection as part of its aim of protection and preservation of natural resources. In this context the Commission services are currently finalising a proposal for this Thematic Strategy on Soil Protection. Building on the results of previous discussions with stakeholders, the Commission undertook an internet consultation to elicit relevant opinions from stakeholders on specific measures being considered for inclusion in the Thematic Strategy. The information will feed into the strategy which is scheduled for adoption towards the end of 2005.  Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-in may be required.

For more information and to see the initial results of the consultation go to: europa.eu.int

Hampshire County Council's response to the consultation can be downloaded here.

Hampshire leads the way on integrated land use planning

The sustainable development of soil and land as key environmental resources are the focus of a current Hampshire County Council / Defra initiative, that aims to provide the Council with the tools it needs to understand and manage the main pressures on land resources within the county. Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-in may be required.

NSRI e-zine June 2005

Impacts of Climate Change on Soil Functions - new research

Defra has commissioned the National Soil Resources Institute to undertake a study of the impacts of climate change on soil functions in England and Wales. The study will scope the extent of current work on climate change impacts on soils and the functions of soils, and identify implications for future management. The study will look more widely than just agricultural soils and include the vulnerability of non-agricultural soils, including those in the urban environment. There will be a wide consultation process and the study should be reported later this year.

A new short course assists farmers and advisors with soil management

The National Soil Resources Institute has developed a new modular short course Soil and Water Management Certificate that will be independently accredited by BASIS. The course is aimed at farmers and land advisors who will need to implement good agricultural and environmental management as part of Cross Compliance and will need to produce farm development and soil management plans. The course has been fully endorsed by FWAG and LEAF and will be run with input from Defra. The course is initially being delivered at Cranfield University, Silsoe and is run over 4 days with an optional BASIS exam on day 5 to be accredited. Farmers are entitled to apply for funds from the Defra ERDP scheme.

More information: s.richardson@cranfield.ac.uk

Results of the DEFRA consultation on tackling water pollution from agriculture

The joint Defra - HM Treasury consultation 'Developing Measures to Promote Catchment-Sensitive Farming in England' sought views on the possible approaches and measures to reduce diffuse water pollution from agriculture. Water pollution from multiple, or diffuse, sources is now the greatest challenge to further improving water quality and the single, biggest source is from agriculture. The Government, having carefully considered all consultation responses, will continue to work with stakeholders in 2005 to develop an effective package of measures to tackle this problem and consult further on this in due course.

More information: defra.gov.uk

Work has also started on looking at diffuse pollution of water from non-agricultural sources with a series of workshops taking place to inform the formulation of measures to bring those sources under control.

More information: defra.gov.uk

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