The Wye is designated as a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest but is currently in unfavourable condition as a result of nutrient and sediment loadings, predominantly arising from agricultural sources. The rate of loss, and impact once in the river, of these pollutants are exacerbated by contrasting extremes of weather; intense periods of rainfall causing subsequent flooding, and hot dry periods causing subsequent algal blooms. A study by Lancaster University, REPHOKUS, concluded that due to the intensity of agricultural production, in particular livestock, an excess of 3000t of P was being generated in the Wye every year. A wide range of delivery approaches have been instigated to secure short term and long term reductions to pollution sources from agriculture.

Agricultural supply chains

Within the Wye catchment there are at least 4000 farm businesses, producing commodities from every major agricultural sector. Beef, lamb and free range poultry dominate land use in the Welsh Wye. As well as those aforementioned, in the English Wye produce also includes a high concentration of broiler chicken, potatoes, asparagus, soft fruit, top fruit, dairy and cereals.

The Wye & Usk Foundation work with farmers through targeted farm support and local expertise to deliver practical on-farm measures that address the specific challenges identified for key agricultural sectors in the area.