The new system requires less expensive feed, less fertiliser, and less work.

The council was also helping farmers develop plans to use less fertiliser, Mr Bedford said.

It was a long time ago though, when fields were sprayed with less fertiliser, perhaps.

Counselling farmers to use less fertiliser is one way, but it will not solve the problem.

We certainly know that we can get new varieties that require less fertiliser to produce at the same level.