Summary
This 2026 AHDB Monitor Farm field event in Norwich presented practitioner-led case study evidence on ditch and drain management as an adaptation strategy for United Kingdom arable and mixed farms facing increasingly variable rainfall and elevated flood risk. The session combined direct observation of working drainage infrastructure with discussion of maintenance best practice and long-term planning to sustain soil function and productivity. Participants were also introduced to the A-WINEP grant scheme as a funding mechanism enabling farmers to undertake drainage projects delivering concurrent water quality and catchment benefits.
Regional applicability
Directly applicable to United Kingdom arable and mixed farming systems, particularly in regions facing increased flood risk and variable precipitation patterns. The case study approach and focus on practical solutions are well suited to UK farm conditions and policy context.
Key measures
Ditch and drain maintenance protocols; drainage infrastructure performance under variable rainfall; uptake of A-WINEP grant scheme for water quality and catchment benefits
Outcomes reported
The event presented case study evidence and practical solutions for ditch and drain management as a climate adaptation strategy. It covered maintenance best practice, long-term planning for soil function and productivity, and funding mechanisms for drainage infrastructure projects.
Topic tags
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