Results from the rapid analysis of affect of gypsum on phosphate in Herefordshire soils; paper attached.

[Rosie Willmott, Herefordshire Council; 15 minutes]

Rosie Willmott (Herefordshire Council) delivered the presentation Gypsum: Reducing Phosphate Loss in Herefordshire Soils (link), with the slide headings: Gypsum; International evidence base; Rapid analysis of Herefordshire soils; Outcomes; and Next steps.  The agenda pack included the paper The effects of gypsum application to agricultural soils on water extractable phosphorus (link).

The Chairperson thanked Rosie Willmott for the presentation, Ben Taylor-Davis for highlighting the concept, and the farmers for their involvement in the research.  Whilst recognising that this project involved a lab based trial, it was noted that the outcomes were very encouraging. 

In response to questions, Rosie Willmott explained the next steps, including working with Lancaster University and a consultant to undertake a field scale trial from the autumn, and acknowledged that the articulation of co-benefits should be a key principle in engagement with the farming community.

Pat Stirling commended the approach and the early results, but emphasised that phosphorus was not the only issue affecting river health (e.g. nitrogen, ammonia, and sediment) and encouraged statutory agencies to adopt an integrated approach.  Claire Minett said that the whole picture was fundamental for the solutions, and consideration would be given to new evidence and research, but phosphorus remained a significant issue, particularly for the Lugg.  Ann Weedy said that the need to approach river health holistically was recognised, and commented on nutrient levels in Wales.

Georgie Hyde highlighted recent permitting changes for storing and spreading gypsum.

Andrew McRobb also commented on the issues with high levels of nitrate and the need for broad perspectives given the evolving information.