Agriculture Should Feature in Flood Defence Policy
2012-02-02

Government policy on flood defence does not recognise the importance of agriculture, food production and land management, the CLA has warned.

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The Association said a report on flood risk management published yesterday (31 January) by the Public Accounts Committee is short-sighted not to consider the economic contribution of food production and land management when setting spending priorities.

CLA North Regional Director Dorothy Fairburn said: “We agree with the Committee that there is not enough money available for defending homes and businesses against flooding. However, farmers are already suffering due to a lack of awareness of the economic contribution that agriculture and land management makes to the local economy and this is having a serious impact on rural communities.

“We understand flood defence funding has to be more targeted but the Government must begin to recognise the importance of food producing businesses, especially in light of increased population growth and climate change.”

Miss Fairburn added: “Food production and land-based businesses make a significant economic contribution and should be adequately protected against flooding.”

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