The NFU has called for a National Wildfire Strategy for England and Wales to protect farmland, livestock and rural communities, following a government wildfire summit in Liverpool on 23 October.
The union highlighted the risks posed by prolonged hot, dry weather and the role farmers and land managers play in responding to wildfires, using their local knowledge and equipment to support emergency services.
Its proposals include better wildfire monitoring, specialist training and resources for emergency responders, active vegetation management and greater public awareness of fire risks. It also wants improved measures to prevent and investigate arson on farms.
NFU Livestock Board chair Clare Wise said: “Wildfires pose enormous risks to crops and livestock, threatening years of time and investment, as well as livelihoods.”
She said farmers and land managers often act as first responders when wildfires break out, adding that action was vital to protect farmland and rural communities as the impacts of climate change became increasingly clear.