For Lincolnshire, one of the UK’s most important food-producing regions, reliable access to water is critical to both food production and future growth.

UK Food Valley has welcomed new Government measures designed to help farmers manage the growing challenges of drought and water scarcity, including commitments to support the development of on-farm reservoirs.

The announcement comes as prolonged dry weather continues to put pressure on farming businesses across England. In its recent drought support package, the Government confirmed plans to make reservoir development easier by reducing barriers, updating planning guidance and providing up to £15 million in funding for on-farm reservoirs. The package also includes measures to improve access to water during drought conditions and strengthen long-term resilience across the sector.

This is an issue that UK Food Valley and the Greater Lincolnshire Forum for Agriculture and Horticulture (GLFFAH), funded and managed by Lincolnshire County Council, have consistently raised through events, industry engagement and discussions with Government. Earlier this year, GLFFAH brought together farmers, regulators, water companies and local authorities to explore practical solutions to the region's water challenges, with support from UK Food Valley. On-farm reservoirs emerged as a key part of those discussions, offering farmers a way to capture water during wetter periods for use when supplies become constrained.

Following the event, GLFFAH, UK Food Valley and regional partners continued to raise the issue with Government and make the case for greater water resilience and support for on-farm reservoirs. The Government's latest commitments represent a welcome step forward and reflect growing recognition of the challenges facing food-producing regions such as Lincolnshire.

Alongside support for reservoir development, the wider drought package aims to help farmers adapt to future climate pressures while maintaining productive and sustainable businesses.

As one of the UK's leading food-producing regions, Lincolnshire has a vital role to play in national food security. Ensuring that farmers have access to reliable water supplies will be essential for safeguarding future production and supporting sustainable growth across the agri-food sector. UK Food Valley and GLFFAH will continue working with industry partners, policymakers and stakeholders to help shape future farming policy, champion practical solutions to the region's water challenges and ensure Lincolnshire's voice is heard as future policy and investment develops.