25/07/11
The 'Drought prospects for summer 2011' report published this month by the Environment Agency summarises the existing situation for the environment and water users, and actions that have been taken so far to mitigate the effects of the recent dry weather on resources.
Recommendations include increased monitoring by the Environment Agency and possible restrictions on the use of water for irrigation.
Farmers are urged to look hard at their irrigation needs and consider becoming more resilient to future droughts through construction of storage reservoirs.
Water companies are asked to do their bit, in particular to consider the use of powers available under the 2010 Floods and Water Management Act to restrict customers' use of water; and to continue to reduce leakage.
We support the overall message for improved drought planning by all users and in particular the importance of ensuring that water is never wasted.
