Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

10/06/2026

We are committed to a TB-free England by 2038. We've been working with farmers, scientists, vets and conservationists to develop a new strategy for tackling bovine TB, one that puts cattle first and is backed by science. Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-welcomes-expert-led-recommendations-for-a-new-bovine-tb-eradication-strategy

09/06/2026

Dog attacks in homes from banned breeds are on the rise.

That is why we are introducing a new measure to better protect children around these breeds.

The measure will mean that you must not leave a child under the age of 12 unsupervised near your banned breed dog in the home or other domestic settings. If you do, your dog could be seized.

This will come into force from 1 November and we’ll be publishing detailed guidance soon.

🔗 Find out more: www.gov.uk/government/news/new-safety-measures-introduced-to-protect-children-around-banned-dog-breeds

09/06/2026

09/06/2026

Somerset faces unique challenges when it comes to extreme weather.

That's why we're investing £50 million into flood resilience measures to increase protection for homes, farms and food security across the region.

http://www.gov.uk/government/news/50-million-investment-to-help-protect-somersets-farms-and-homes-from-flooding?cachebust=1780932056

07/06/2026

With 13 newly designated bathing water sites across the country, there are now over 460 in total to choose from – but how do you know where is best to swim?

Our Chief Scientist Anjali Goswami explains how.

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/swim-healthy-leaflet/swim-healthy

05/06/2026

Could you spot an unregistered waste carrier?

Waste collected by unregistered carriers often ends up dumped illegally, damaging the environment, and leaving you with a fine.

You can find licenced waste carriers in the EA’s register of waste carriers, brokers, and dealers here: https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers

02/06/2026

Supporting more productive and sustainable farming 🌱

Today we published the near-final guidance, actions and application information for our Sustainable Farming Incentive, to help farmers understand what’s available through the offer and how to apply.

The updated offer is designed to support more productive and sustainable farming, and has been simplified with fewer, clearer actions, fairer funding and a stronger focus on helping more farms take part.

Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle recently visited the Royal Bath & West Show, where she spoke with farmers about how the scheme can support the sector.

Interested in applying? Check your eligibility, read the guidance carefully and take steps now to prepare for applications opening: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-farming-incentive-2026-sfi26

27/05/2026

The Mersey Valley Way is now open 🙌

This river walk is a brilliant example of how improving access and better signage can help people feel confident exploring nature, while supporting nature recovery.

This is all part of our wider river walks scheme, bringing nature back to local communities.

25/05/2026

£30m to create and restore wildlife-rich habitats across England’s National Parks and National Landscapes 🌿

This new funding could benefit hedgehogs, bees, butterflies and more!

Find out more: gov.uk/government/news/wildlife-habitat-in-most-cherished-landscapes-set-to-be-restored