2. Mimmshall Brook "Zero Metaldehyde" project

Aim: Improve water quality

Water body: Mimmshall Brook

Project description

Working with farmers in the Mimmshall Brook to reduce metaldehyde (pesticide in slug pellets) pollution impacting the river and drinking water abstraction

 A risk mapping methodology has been used to identify high risk fields in this catchment based on soil type, proximity to a watercourse and topography. Farmers with fields defined as high risk have been asked to voluntarily switch to an alternative product which impacts less on public water supply. The project aim is to reduce metaldehyde getting into water and giving farmers a voluntary alternative to legal restrictions on metaldehyde use.

Further information on the project can be found at the following website:

http://www.getpelletwise.co.uk/pilot-projects/ 

December 2023 update

This project has now finished and has become the Farming 4 Clean Water scheme which has expanded to cover the Mimmshall Brook and Upper Colne down to Eastbury.

Project lead: Affinity Water

Project partners: Environment Agency, Metaldehyde Stewardship Group; Natural England; Local farmers and agronomists

Contact for more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Project start: Jan 2014

Project end: Mar 2017

Funding source: Affinity Water , Metaldehyde Stewardship Group , Natural England