Pig producers in East Anglian are being encouraged to address the issues surrounding farming practices and water contamination, particularly as they apply to outdoor pig systems.
An AHDB Pork meeting, titled ‘Maintaining water quality in East Anglia’ has been called for June 27 in Swaffham, Norfolk, with the aim of enabling all sides of the farming and water debate to have their say.
“The meeting will bring farmers and industry stakeholders together to discuss the issue of maintaining drinking water quality,” said AHDB Pork’s regional knowledge exchange manager, Andrew Palmer. “It’s a great opportunity for producers and water companies to start working collaboratively.”
Mr Palmer (pictured above) said that he believed that by working together the different parties who will be represented at the meeting can help “safeguard” the future of outdoor pig production.
“When not managed correctly,” he added, “farming practices can cause issues for water companies in terms of contaminating drinking water supplies. The meeting will help farmers to understand the issues water companies are facing and will also help them review and learn about farming techniques that will help protect watercourses.”
An Anglian Water representative will outline the importance of maintaining water quality and the key issues that the organisation is facing while an officer from the Environment Agency will highlight the key regulations which pig farmers face.
“Attendees will then be given the opportunity to have an open discussion about their experiences before receiving practical management tips from the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG),” said Mr Palmer. “A review of the current resources and support that is available from AHDB Pork will also be given towards the end of the meeting.
“I really would urge producers in the region to come along to what promises to be an informative afternoon. The aim isn’t to point the finger; it’s about moving forwards and working together.”
The meeting, which will start at 2.45pm on Monday, June 27, will be held at The George Hotel, Swaffham.
To register email Andrew.Palmer(at)ahdb.org.uk
