Prestwick farm fined £600 for breaching environmental rules

A Prestwick farmer has been issued a £600 penalty after failing to meet environmental regulations during crop cultivation, highlighting the need for farmers to adhere to Scotland’s strict environmental standards.

J & A Lawrie, owners of Brieryside Farm in Monkton, Prestwick, received a fixed monetary penalty (FMP) from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) after the farm was found to have ploughed land within 2m of a watercourse – a violation of environmental regulations.

See also: Scottish farmer finds new purpose with on-farm gym

The investigation began after the agency was notified on 22 July 2024 that part of Brieryside Farm had been cultivated within the restricted zone.

Sepa officers visited the site on 9 August, confirming the breach.

According to regulations, no land may be ploughed within 2m of any watercourse, such as a river, burn, ditch, or loch, to reduce risks of pollution, bank erosion, and habitat destruction.

“Healthy soils can increase yields and decrease pollution risks,” said Sepa, urging farmers to adopt sustainable practices that protect the water environment.

Sepa has been working with Scotland’s farming community to address rural diffuse pollution, including in North Ayrshire.

Brieryside Farm had previously received advice from Sepa during visits in 2017 and 2018 on how to comply with the regulations, but failed to follow these guidelines.

Stephen Field, Sepa’s national rural unit manager, said: “This civil penalty should act as a warning to others that we won’t hesitate to take action against those who ignore Scotland’s environmental regulations.”

Sepa issues FMPs for less severe offences, particularly when environmental harm is minimal.

Their enforcement actions, including FMPs and other penalties, are intended to ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard the environment.