Healthy soil is the starting point for everything we depend on. But across the UK, soils are under pressure. Heavy rain can wash away nutrients and silt up rivers. Dry summers leave the ground cracked and hard. Excess nutrients and some pesticides can build up and find their way into groundwater - but healthy soils are different. They:
- Grow strong, healthy crops.
- Soak up rainfall and reduce flooding.
- Filter out contaminants before they reach streams and aquifers.
- Provide habitat for worms, beetles, and pollinators.
We know that looking after soil is one of the best ways to protect both farming and water for the future. That’s why this year we’re proud to support the Agroforestry Show in the Colne Catchment, one of the areas where our teams are working closely with farmers and communities.
How trees make a difference
Agroforestry means planting trees alongside crops and animals. Far from taking land out of use, trees bring new life into fields. Their roots hold soil together, their leaves add organic matter, and their shade helps crops and livestock cope with hot, dry spells.
By mixing trees with farming, soils stay richer, water stays cleaner, and farms become more resilient.
What we’re doing at the Agroforestry Show
This year, we’re sponsoring The Agroforestry Show, where farmers, researchers, and conservation groups will share practical ideas and stories.
This builds on the work we’re already doing, including:
- Planting 110,000 trees in the coming years as part of a national water industry pledge.
- Working with farmers to protect drinking water supplies and the environment.
- Supporting the recovery of globally rare chalk streams.
Come down and see us on the 10th and 11th of September!
Growing solutions together
Healthy soils mean healthy water. By working together with farmers and communities, we can protect the land, safeguard our chalk streams, and keep life flowing.
We’re excited to see everyone this September, where we can learn, share, and grow a more resilient future together.