Prepare for and respond to drought

This standard covers preparing for and responding to periods of drought.

Drought occurs when a shortage of rainfall brings about a detrimental effect on the environment. It is likely that there will be reduced river flows, exceptionally low groundwater levels and insufficient moisture in the soil. These conditions often result in signs of stress for wildlife, fish and habitats and problems for agriculture and horticulture. 

Many land-based businesses use private water supplies, and this can cause additional issues. 

Measures need to be taken to anticipate and prepare for drought. These could include reducing usage, the temporary storage of water and setting up temporary additional supplies.

This standard is suitable for farmers, growers, fisheries and environmental conservation.

1. assess the risk of drought occurring in the sector in which you work, and the effects it would have
2. assess the need for water and how this could be provided in times of drought
3. have plans in place to prepare for and mitigate the effects of drought in your area of work
4. take action to reduce and conserve water usage 
5. monitor the situation regularly and take early action to limit its effects
6. apply for water licences, where required
7. report and seek advice from your responsible organisation

1. how drought affects the land-based sector in which you work
2. the actions that can be taken to prepare for and mitigate the effects of drought in your sector
3. the organisations that can offer help and advice on drought in your sector
4. the importance of planning to manage the effects of drought
5. the ways in which water usage can be reduced and water conserved
6. the ways in which water levels/soil moisture content can be monitored
7. when water licences are required and how to apply for them
8. the responsible organisation for the sector in which you work and how to contact them

Actions to mitigate the effects of drought could include:

• Contacting a water company to provide an alternative supply for livestock

• Setting up temporary additional water supplies

• Storing water temporarily in tanks

• Using  pumps

• Monitoring the location and health of fish in fisheries

• Checking for algal blooms in fisheries

• Oxygenating the water in fisheries

• Moving fish in fisheries

• Relocating livestock

• Monitoring for the risk of wildfire in vulnerable areas

Responsible organisations:

• DEFRA

• Environment Agency

• Natural Resources Wales

• Scottish Environment Protection Agency SEPA

• NI Environment Agency

• Water company

Ways to reduce and conserve water could include:

• Capturing and storing water

• Water trading

• Reducing evaporation

• Carefully selecting crop types

• Managing soil health

• Using mulch to retain moisture in the soil

• Using irrigation efficiently e.g. drip irrigation or watering at night to reduce evaporation

• Rotating crops/grazing