A discussion has taken place between farmers and scientists on research regarding water quality, farm and soil nutrient management in Upper Bann.

Environment Minister Edwin Poots visited Katesbridge, County Down, to engage in conversation about the information in the Upper Bann Catchment Research Platform.

The Agri Food and Bio Sciences Institute (AFBI) has been carrying out research and monitoring in the Upper Bann catchment for DAERA over many years to support the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) and associated Derogation. More recently it has included the Soil Sampling and Analysis Scheme and now the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS).

The Minister discussed the research results with the AFBI scientists and their Ulster University partners and viewed one of the automated water quality monitoring stations.

Recently, repeated soil sampling has provided an indication of improved management as a result of regular soil testing in two catchments. In 2017 AFBI provided all participating farmers with full farm soil sampling and delivered both tabulated and map-based results and recommendations for nutrients and lime. Following a LiDAR scan of the catchment AFBI also produced runoff risk maps highlighting areas at greatest risk of nutrient loss during rainfall events in the catchments. Re-analysis in 2021 assessed the changes in on-farm nutrient management, soil status and water quality.

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Speaking about the research, Minister Poots said: "I was very pleased by the positive comments from farmers who are participating in the project. As result of the soil analysis and nutrient management advice provided by AFBI, farmers are growing more, better quality grass and saving on chemical fertiliser costs. They are farming more efficiently and sustainably. It is also encouraging that we are already seeing a small but steady improvement in water quality."

Across the 700 fields repeat sampled there has been a reduction in the numbers of fields with excessive levels of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) or sub-optimal pH, and more fields are now at optimum pH, P, K and magnesium (Mg) statuses. Over the period, farms have shown a more efficient use of phosphorus through more informed management.

The Minister concluded: "As we move forward this scientific evidence is critical in assisting with the development of policies and support measures. I commend the farmers for their involvement in the project, which will contribute to a sustainable future for Northern Ireland farming."