The environmental and socio-economic impacts of changing agri-environment payments in Queens Sedgemoor, Somerset Levels

Steer, Mark; Maxfield, Pete

Abstract

The moor appears to be nitrate limited, but there is evidence that may suggest there is significant nitrate input in parts of the moor. It would be instructive to understand the flux of nitrates as water move through the ditch system in more detail. Aquatic phosphate levels increase through the moor and water leaving the site fails the ecological standards of WFD. Increasing phosphate and sulphate levels may be an indication of continuing desiccation (oxidation) of peat soils releasing nutrients into the water system. These have the potential to be transported through the drainage network which may lead to detriment of water quality within notified sites.
The change from ESA to ES appears to have had relatively little impact on the working practices of farmers on Queens Sedgemoor. However, the majority of farmers who had not engaged with ES having been in the ESA schemes reported spraying herbicides on their fields. This, particularly combined with persistently low oxygen levels and high nutrient levels, may present a persistent threat to the biological integrity of the ditch network and, potentially, impact the health of livestock drinking ditch waters.
Current funding regimes mean that future AES funding is likely to fall further, in the real terms. However, the new Countryside Stewardship scheme contains a competitive, mid-tier option that may be available to farmers in the area. Farmers are more likely to be successful with a bid to the scheme if they are in a partnership bid via the Facilitation Fund.
However, if peat degradation is found to be a major source of nutrient input into the waterways, the only solution may be to hold water levels higher, which will impact agricultural productivity and isn’t currently funded through Mid Tier management options.

• Report Type: Research Report
• Publication Date: Oct 14, 2015
• Deposit Date: Nov 7, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 10, 2021
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/7522974