Vol. 85 No: 2

Title:
Development of a water-use strategy for horticulture in England and Wales - a case study

Authors:
J.W. KNOX, J.A. RODRIGUEZ-DIAZ, E.K. WEATHERHEAD and M.G. KAY

pp: 89-93

Abstract:
We describe the development of a water-use strategy for horticulture in England and Wales. Data were gathered from a literature review as well as from industry and grower surveys, and combined with information from interviews with key informants, in order to assess current practices and underlying trends in water-use within seven horticultural sectors. The spatial distribution of horticultural holdings relative to water availability and stress were mapped for both direct abstraction and mains water supplies. From this, a strategy was developed to define the key priorities at grower and industry levels, and the actions required, including research, communication, and knowledge transfer, to improve water-use efficiency and to reduce environmental water impacts. The key priorities identified included: improving our knowledge of the impacts of irrigation on diffuse pollution, including leaching of nitrate, phosphate, and pesticides; the need to improve grower understanding of water regulation; and quantifying the links between poor uniformity of irrigation, crop production, and profitability.

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