190 years later.

Almost three-quarters of England faced drought conditions by August 2026, leaving agricultural soils severely desiccated following the driest July in 190 years. Soil moisture levels dropped significantly nationwide following record-low rainfall and prolonged high temperatures through the summer.

Around 72% of England entered official drought status, restricting normal soil recovery and grass growth.

The prolonged lack of water resulted in yield capping for all crop types with harvested yields dropping sharply. Grass growth ceased forcing many to offer supplementary feed stocks and consequently increase cost of production whilst simultaneously reduce forage stocks for the winter of 2026/27.

In a bid to help? …. the government introduced temporary flexibilities for Environmental Land Management agreements and targeted funding like the Water Management Grant for on-farm water storage. DEFRA advanced its Farming Roadmap 2050 to target sustainable management for 60% of agricultural soils by 2030.

The Farming Roadmap.

“Our ambition is straightforward: profitable farms that maintain domestic food production, … and a sector that helps restore nature and meet our climate goals while contributing to the growth of the British economy. ….. the foundations of food production.”

However:-

“The UK government will introduce a carbon tax on imported fertiliser starting 1 January 2027. Calculated as a flat rate per tonne…”

“Industry projections suggest the tax could increase nitrogen fertiliser costs anywhere from £1 to £100 / t” .

A more recent statement:-

“The Government remains committed to implementation from Jan 1. It will apply to imported goods from the fertiliser sector, and the rate charged will reflect the final carbon price paid by domestic industries after support mechanisms (such as and free allowances) have been taken into account.”