Farmers are being urged to share how they have been impacted by rising fertiliser prices amid the Middle East conflict in a new survey by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Launched by Defra today (Tuesday, April 7), the survey is also enquiring whether farming practices are changing as result of the fertiliser price fluctuations.
While the UK is reportedly “not heavily dependent” on the Middle East for fertiliser, Defra stated that it is “closely monitoring” prices, supplies, and any other impacts of the conflict for farmers.
The department claimed that the increase in price “reflect global conditions rather than current supply issues in the UK”.
Defra currently assessed the UK’s fertiliser supply as stable, but farmers still encouraged to voice their opinion in the survey,
Defra
The feedback from the survey will “complement other sources of intelligence, including market data and engagement with industry representatives”, according to Defra,
Speaking about the survey, Defra Minister Dame Angela Eagle said: “Supply remains stable and we have a range of tools to help farmers use fertiliser more efficiently.
“But it’s vital we hear directly from farmers about how they are being affected and I encourage them to complete our short survey.
“Alongside market data and industry intelligence, farmers’ responses will give us a first-hand picture of the pressures on the ground – and we stand ready to act to support British farming and food security,” she added.
Survey
The survey will ask farmers about their farm details, such as size, enterprise, or location, and their experiences with fertiliser this year.
Farmers who take part will be given the option to leave their email if they would like to be involved with future research.
The survey is set to run until April 15 next week and it can be submitted on Defra’s website, with the form taking roughly 15 minutes to complete.