We're asking Sussex farmers to put their thinking caps on and suggest land-based improvements to prevent soil, and the chemicals and valuable nutrients within it, from reaching the River Ouse and Eastern Rother, in return for grants of up to £10,000.

Our drinking water is some of the best quality in the world, and we want to keep it that way.

Although any harmful substances are removed during the extensive water treatment process, turbidity (suspended solids), phosphate and metaldehyde are reducing the health of the rivers.

That’s why we’re keen to hear from any livestock or arable farmers in the area who have an idea to prevent soil from reaching the rivers to improve the water quality.

Please contact Tom Abbotts, Catchment Advisor, at catchment@southeastwater.co.uk(opens in a new tab), to register your interest before completing an application form.

Calling all maize growers

While this offer isn't specific to maize growers, we do work with lots of maize growers, contractors and dairy farms - especially in Sussex.

Visit our dedicated maize webpage to find out more about our work in this area. You can also watch Catchment Advisor Tom Abbotts talk about the dual benefits working with maize growers brings for us as a water company and farmers.