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Farming & Water Scotland

@farmwaterscot.bsky.social
171 followers 163 following 204 posts

Sharing practical ideas to protect water quality, reduce diffuse pollution risk and benefit the farm business. Find us online at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org & on Facebook @FarmWaterScot

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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
January 2027 sees the last of the phased changes to the general binding rules (GBRs) covering silage and slurry, with the need for precision slurry application. We’ll take a look at what this means in practice in our next newsletter – sign up at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
We will be at the SNSS Future Landscape Conference “Innovation in Integration: Building resilient futures through collaboration” at Barony on 16th October – details at www.sruc.ac.uk/news-events/...
sruc.ac.uk
SNSS Future Landscape Conference 2026 - 16 October 2026
<p><strong>The second Future Landscape Conference will be held at the SRUC Barony Campus this October. Held every two years the conference aims to promote innovation in the rural landscape to meet…
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The Scottish Farmer @thescottishfarmer.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
Scottish farmers can improve soil health, fertiliser efficiency and farm margins by testing structure, pH, drainage, compaction and biology, not…
thescottishfarmer.co.uk
The simple soil checks that could protect farm margins
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
A livestock crossing point could help reduce significant poaching around watercourses, protecting land, water quality and keeping you on the right side of the regs. You can put a minor bridge over a watercourse without contacting SEPA – see Factsheet 15 Crossing Points shorturl.at/dZZ61
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
We looked at poaching and the 5m rule in our summer newsletter – if you missed it, take a look at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource/poa...
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Poaching by Livestock - What is the 5 metre rule? - Farming and Water Scotland
What is the 5 metre rule? What do farmers actually need to do to prevent poaching but allow livestock access to water.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
We are heading to Filpumps ‘Below the Surface’ event in Glenrothes on Friday (18th Sept). Have you registered? More info at www.filpumps.co.uk/kinross-open...
filpumps.co.uk
Filpumps Demo Day Fife | Below The Surface
Register for the Filpumps demo day in Fife and see practical water drainage pumps tanks and rural fluid solutions for farms and estates.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Water scarcity and flooding - two sides of the same coin? We’ve collected some tips and ideas to prep for weather extremes - most will already be putting these measures in place, but there may be a few ideas worth a second look? www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/managing-wat...
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Improving farm resilience to changing weather - Farming and Water Scotland
Natural Flood Management techniques can help farms become more resilient in the face of increasing wet weather events.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Did you know that 1st September was officially Autumn in the meteorological calendar? But with forecasts for a 'super El Nino' building towards the end of the year, are we going to get typical Autumn weather? www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2026/an...
metoffice.gov.uk
An ‘unprecedented’ El Niño and its implications for the weather forecast
2026 is going to be renowned for the development of the largest El Niño in living memory and what is probably the largest such event since the 19th century.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Soil sampling is key to getting best value from fertilisers, whether that’s bought in or produced on farm. The Field Sheets included in the back of the Valuing Your Soils Brochure gives a good ‘how to’ guide if you need a refresher. Read at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/wp-content/u...
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
Here are Scotland's water scarcity status maps for August. Some improvement, but eastern counties still experiencing moderate water scarcity. Full SEPA water scarcity reports released weekly at beta.sepa.scot/water-scarci...
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
We spoke to the folks over at @netregs.bsky.social recently to see what kind of information they host, and how it can be a useful resource for farmers and land managers. Listen at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource/net...
farmingandwaterscotland.org
NetRegs: Guidance to help business - Farming and Water Scotland
Podcast discussing how land managers can use NetRegs to stay compliant, learn best practice, decipher legislation and go on training courses.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
In our latest podcast, we're joined by Struan Candlish Ayrshire Rivers Trust, and @alexclarkpirie.bsky.social from SAC Consulting to hear about the impact of invasive species on our rivers and burns. Listen at shorturl.at/WNZYZ
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
Soil compaction can limit growth. Watch our video with Scotland’s Farm Advisory service on how to use the VESS method to identify soil structural issues at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource/a-guide-to-the-visual-evaluation-of-soil-structure-vess/
farmingandwaterscotland.org
A guide to the Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure (VESS) - Farming and Water Scotland
Dr. Bill Crooks, a soils and drainage expert, is on a farm to demonstrate how to undertake a Visual Examination of Soil Structure (VESS).
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
Improving soil OM can increase water retention & boost crop growth. With lack of seasonal rainfall and high fertiliser costs, better soil functionality is a ££££ win. Can you improve your most valuable asset? Listen at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource/organic-matter-why-is-it-important/
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Organic matter - why is it important? - Farming and Water Scotland
In this podcast we discuss soil organic matter, from what it is, to the benefits that can be gained from improving the quantity in your soil.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
An early harvest gives opportunity to assess soil health before autumn drilling. Knowing current nutrient and pH levels allows more targeted (and cost effective) use of manures, fertiliser and lime.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
Limited rainfall in July put a number of Scottish catchments into a significant water scarcity situation. Here are the water scarcity status maps for July, taken from the SEPA Water Scarcity Reports. Full reports released weekly at beta.sepa.scot/water-scarci...
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The Scottish Farmer @thescottishfarmer.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
BREAKING NEWS | Thousands missed out, but FFIS winners can go again #scottishfarmers #agriculture #farmers
thescottishfarmer.co.uk
Previous FFIS recipients eligible for fresh funding round
Farmers and crofters who secured FFIS funding in 2025 will be able to apply again, as Scotland announces changes after thousands of first-round…
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Need to update your RAMS (Risk Assessment for Manure and Slurry) plan? We've got some handy resources - take a look at Factsheet 9 in the Farming and Water Scotland Know the Rules series bit.ly/3TGgAJH or for more detail, see our step by step guide as part of The 4 Point Plan at bit.ly/4yFIrtw
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Woodland Trust Scotland @wtscotsocial.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Exciting new, free #Riverwoods webinar series starts Wed 29 July. ALL WELCOME 🧑‍💻 Sessions will dive into key aspects of developing, delivering & monitoring #RiverRestoration projects. 1st session: involving local communities, accessibility, resources tour + live Q&A. Sign up: buff.ly/VvzpNzL
Young leafy alder branch in sharp focus beside a shallow, sunlit stream flowing past a pebble bank and grassy, tree-lined banks toward distant hills. Credit JOhn MacPherson / WTML
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
From Potato irrigation innovations to understanding the 5-metre poaching rule, there’s been some great guest articles covering a diverse range of topics in our previous newsletters. Sign up for future editions and see past articles at
shorturl.at
Farming and Water Scotland Newsletter Archives - Farming and Water Scotland
Quarterly seasonal newsletter focusing improving and providing key information on water management on farm. Looking at innovative and cost effective methods
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
It’s Farm Safety Week. From preventing combine fires to working at height, the Farm Safety Foundation have produced ‘The Little Book of Farm Safety’ with loads of practical information to help keep you and others safe on farm. Take a look at www.yellowwellies.org/resources/ page.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Could soil compaction be limiting growth? Our video with Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service shows how to use the VESS method to identify soil structural issues. Take a look www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource/a-guide-to-the-visual-evaluation-of-soil-structure-vess/
farmingandwaterscotland.org
A guide to the Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure (VESS) - Farming and Water Scotland
Dr. Bill Crooks, a soils and drainage expert, is on a farm to demonstrate how to undertake a Visual Examination of Soil Structure (VESS).
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 14/07/2026
Looking for a new podcast series around farming and water in Scotland? See what other farmers are doing. Lots to go at, from magic margins to organic matter at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource-cat...
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 10/07/2026
We are hearing a lot about regen ag. In last months podcast, we spoke to David Ross, Senior Consultant @sacconsulting.bsky.social for a practical take on regen ag,and how it can build soil resilience and help to improve water management on farm. Listen at shorturl.at/BgsCI
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Regenerative Agriculture: Back to basics - Farming and Water Scotland
Looking at how regenerative agriculture can help build farm resilience to a changing climate. Helping to improve water management on farm.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 06/07/2026
Unintentional slurry runoff = loss of valuable nutrients & can impact burn/river quality. Keep a min. 10m buffer between slurry applications and watercourses. Our handy tractor cab sticker reminds you to 'Mind the Gap' - collect from @sacconsulting.bsky.social offices (where available).
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
Our Farming and Water Scotland Newsletter came out this week. Didn’t get yours? Sign up via our webpage www.farmingandwaterScotland.org
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The Scottish Farmer @thescottishfarmer.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Dry conditions through April and much of May have left many UK crops under moisture stress, with the recent heatwave adding fresh uncertainty to…
thescottishfarmer.co.uk
UK crops under moisture stress after dry April and May
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Unpredictable and/or prolonged dry spells could put pressure on our water resources. We've some practical ideas and links that could help improve farm resilience - see our planning for water scarcity pages. Take a look at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/managing-water/extreme_weather/
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Improving farm resilience to changing weather - Farming and Water Scotland
Natural Flood Management techniques can help farms become more resilient in the face of increasing wet weather events.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 26/06/2026
How are weather conditions impacting water resources in Scotland? Here's a compilation of the SEPA Water Scarcity Report maps for June. Full reports released weekly at beta.sepa.scot/water-scarci... @Scottishepa.bsky.social @sacconsulting.bsky.social
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 25/06/2026
Be the first to know! 🚜 Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get updates on FWS activities and exclusive invites to our forthcoming events (currently planning our autumn roadshow!). Don't miss out on our next big invite! 👇 Sign up at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org
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WWF Scotland @wwfscotland.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
New report live! 📝 Exploring barriers & opportunities for water, nature and climate-friendly farming around the Firth of Forth. 🚜 Pick up a copy at the RSPB stall at the Royal Highland Show or read online: www.wwf.org.uk/our-reports/barriers-enablers-water-nature-climate-friendly-farming-summary
A farmer holding a handful of herbal ley, including pink flowering clover, on a nature-friendly farm
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The Scottish Farmer @thescottishfarmer.bsky.social · 21/06/2026
Rainfall boosts Scotland’s crops, easing drought stress, but rising temperatures are increasing disease risks across cereals, oilseed rape and…
thescottishfarmer.co.uk
Timely showers boost crops as disease pressure increases
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 16/06/2026
Going to Royal Highland Show on Friday? Join Farming and Water Scotland and guests as we explore how to build farm resilience in an unpredictable climate at our panel session. SRUC Pavilion 13.45 - details and to register shorturl.at/kCbne @SACConsulting.bsky.social @SRUCNews.bsky.social
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
We are all set up and ready to go at ScotSheep 2026 with colleagues from @SACConsulting.bsky.social and SEPA - pop in and see us! We are in Shed 10 (and if you are quick, you might get one of our new fancy notebooks?).
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
We are heading to Wedderlie Farm in Berwickshire tomorrow (Wed 10th June) for Scotsheep! Pop in, we are in Shed 10 with guests from @SACConsulting.bsky.social and Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) More info at
scotsheep.org.uk
NSA Scotsheep | National Sheep Association
NSA Scotsheep is Scotland's biennial National Sheep Event.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 04/06/2026
Valuing your Soils brochure - It’s available on line, or your local SAC Office should be able to source you a paper copy. Alternatively we have a few in the FWS office - contact us via the website and we’ll post one out www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/soil-nutrients/valuing-your-soils/
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Valuing your soils - Farming and Water Scotland
The "Valuing Your Soils", booklet and supporting information has been produced to help Scottish farmers, crofters, and land managers protect.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
VESS - Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure. You just need a spade and this handy field sheet, available on line and in the back of the Valuing Your Soils Brochure.
farmingandwaterscotland.org
A guide to the Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure (VESS) - Farming and Water Scotland
Dr. Bill Crooks, a soils and drainage expert, is on a farm to demonstrate how to undertake a Visual Examination of Soil Structure (VESS).
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 27/05/2026
For field grazed livestock using burn-fed drinking troughs, a bespoke abstraction point can reduce risk of pump failure during low water flows, and protect inlets at high flows. More info, inc 2 abstraction point designs in FAS TechNote TN665 www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/?s=alternative+watering
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 25/05/2026
DYK the majority of silage effluent is produced in the first two weeks after ensiling? If allowed into watercourses, silage effluent depletes oxygen. At times of warm weather and low flows, with aquatic life already under pressure, an effluent spill can be devastating.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 22/05/2026
We've collected some useful articles and links on improving resilience to extreme weather, leading with water scarcity. Take a look at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/managing-water/extreme_weather/
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 21/05/2026
SEPA Water Scarcity report comes out every Thursday. With the continuing (mostly) dry weather, a few more catchments have moved into Early Warning status. You can see the full report at beta.sepa.scot/water-scarci...
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 15/05/2026
So many farmers are working to support nature – get recognised for what you do! The Nature of Scotland Awards are open for nominations until 26th May 2026. Take a look at www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/nature-of-scotland-awards
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
Change of plan – our tent has decided to book holidays this week so we will be joining our friends at the SRUC @SACConsulting.bsky.social stand in plot 4 for Scotgrass on Wednesday! Will have copies of the Valuing Your Soil brochure and Mind the Gap sticker - pop in and see us.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
New tractor? You’ll need to pick up a new Mind the Gap cab sticker from us when you go to Scotgrass on Wednesday.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 06/05/2026
We will be at Slacks Farm, Lochmaben for Scotgrass this time next week with @SACConsulting.bsky.social and @scotttishepa.bsky.social . Great to see it back in the Agri Events calendar!
scotgrass.co.uk
Home | ScotGrass
ABOUT SCOTGRASS Scotgrass is taking place on 13 May 2026 at Slacks Farm, Lochmaben DG11 1RY
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
Spreading slurry? Remember to Mind the Gap.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 21/04/2026
We featured some top tips on slurry management from @alexclarkpirie.bsky.social in our recent newsletter. You can read all newsletter articles at www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/resource-cat...
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
Thinking of upgrading steading drainage or creating a wetland? Both of these options attract funding under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS), but not all areas qualify for all measures. More detail at www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/agri-environment-climate-scheme
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 13/04/2026
Looking for a new podcast series? From flooding to digestate, we have you covered.
farmingandwaterscotland.org
Podcasts Archives - Farming and Water Scotland
Podcasts focusing on improving water management on farm. Looking at regulation, guidance and innovation. Learning from experts and on the ground experience.
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Farming & Water Scotland @farmwaterscot.bsky.social · 10/04/2026
Our colleagues over at FAS have spoken to Gavin Struthers to hear about his experience of creating an irrigation lagoon at Bankhead Farm
youtube.com
Bankhead Farm: How an Irrigation Lagoon Boosted Resilience & Biodiversity
Gavin Struthers of Bankhead Farm takes us through the process of creating an irrigation lagoon on his farm – from site selection, design and planning through to construction, costs and the benefits…
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