Climate resilience on-farm action planner (cereals): Rising sea levels

Here are some of the impacts of rising sea levels and the actions you can take using our Climate resilience on-farm action planner for cereals and oilseeds.

Sea level rise which could be as much as 10–30cm higher mid-century than the 1981–2000 average.

There is an increased risk of flooding, with inaccessible fields or above-field capacity, leading to reduced land availability for spreading manure or slurry. Sodium will affect soil structure and quality as it is a dispersant of soils.

• With assistance, risk map potential future impact of saltwater intrusion if deemed to be in a vulnerable area
• If using manures, biosolids or digestate, find an alternative landbank for spreading
• Use of a soil management plan and regular soil testing
• Saltwater intrusion can alter soil carbon storage in low-lying coastal agricultural fields

• Low impact expected. Follow guidance from a more at-risk site if action is required