Manor Farm Dairy Faces Fine for Slurry Spill Causing River Pollution

In an unfortunate environmental incident, Dorchester-based Manor Farm Dairy has admitted to causing pollution in a local watercourse after a slurry mishap. This led to Manor Farm Dairy pleading guilty in Taunton Magistrates’ Court. The incident severely impacted a 2 km stretch of river, with adverse effects spanning up to 4.5 km from the source. With these ramifications, the company faced a penalty amounting to £6,000, alongside additional costs summing up to £10,158.50. The fine initially set at £9,000 was reduced due to the company's early guilty plea.

Environmental distress was first reported in March 2024 when the Environment Agency was alerted to the olive-green discoloration of a river near Leigh, Dorset. Subsequent investigations traced the contamination back to Manor Farm Dairy. An invertebrate ecology study confirmed the significant degradation in water quality, attributed to organic material pollution.

David Womack, a senior environment officer, emphasized the preventability of the situation, citing regulations for slurry storage in place since 1991. "This incident was avoidable," he stated. Womack highlighted the importance of proper slurry storage capacity to prevent spillage, especially under increased production conditions such as adverse weather or disease restrictions. He urged farmers to seek advice for compliance and report any incidents promptly to minimize ecological damage. Guidance for proper storage is available through official channels.