Pioneering Water Management Project Launched by First Milk and Nestlé in Wales

Dairy co-operative First Milk, in collaboration with Nestlé's waters and premium beverages division in the UK, has embarked on an ambitious project in Pembrokeshire, Wales. This initiative will incorporate the efforts of up to 30 local dairy farmers with the goal of reducing soil compaction and enhancing water infiltration on their land. The project is expected to capture up to an additional 250 million litres of groundwater per year.

The innovative four-year partnership will mainly adopt regenerative farming practices like rotational grazing, increasing sward grassland diversity, and enhancing rooting depth. These methods are intended to improve soil structure, allowing for better water infiltration, promote the soil's ability to retain water, and foster biodiversity.

Daniel James, a participant and First Milk member from Gellyolau Farm, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the project's dual benefits: farming regeneratively and preserving local water bodies for future generations.

Adding to the discourse, Matthew Faulkner, factory manager at Nestlé's Princes Gate site, stated, "We’re thrilled to be part of this venture to uplift both groundwater quantity and quality in Pembrokeshire. This marks the first time Nestlé partners with farmers outside its direct supply chain to positively impact the local environment."

First Milk's Chief Impact Officer, Mark Brooking, emphasized the cooperative's commitment to regenerative farming, which aligns with the objectives of not only preventing floods or managing droughts but also protecting water quality.