Total available
Up to £15 million
It was announced on 15 August 2026 as part of Defra's drought support. The rates and the application window had not been published when we read the announcement, so this page will be updated when they are.
Quick facts
- Total available
- Up to £15 million
- For
- On-farm reservoirs for crop irrigation
- Opens
- Expected autumn 2026
- Announced
- 15 August 2026
What it is for
"We're reopening the Water Management Grant, with up to £15m available to help farmers build on-farm reservoirs." "The scheme will focus on supporting water storage for crop irrigation", so you fill the reservoir in winter and use it in a dry summer.
What to do before it opens
"The grant is expected to open in the autumn." A reservoir can need permission from your council and the Environment Agency, so ask them now what yours needs, and get a design quote. That puts you ahead when the window opens.
Other farm grants open in England
See our list of every farming grant in England for what is open now and what has closed, including Capital Grants, the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund and vet health reviews.
Common questions
How much is the Water Management Grant?
Up to £15 million is available in total. The rate per farm had not been published on 23 October 2026.
When does the Water Management Grant open?
Defra expects it to open in autumn 2026.
What can the Water Management Grant pay for?
On-farm reservoirs that store water for crop irrigation.