Duncannon Blue Flag Farming and Communities Scheme: Sustainably Restoring, Protecting and Enhancing Water Quality

Duncannon Blue Flag Farming & Communities Scheme aimed to sustainably restore, protect and enhance water quality by developing an effective model for future catchments to foster positive relations between farmers and the local communties.Overall, 35 farmers took part, including four dairy, eight tillage and 23 drystock which covered an area over 975 hectares. Pollution Potential Zone (PPZ) maps were scored by assessing farm conditions and management using a traffic light system. This simple, costeffective management plan was a results based reward scheme. Farmers designed and chose which measures to implement, with the guidance of a dedicated sustainability manager. Training was provided for local farmers and the wider community.