Farmers are being urged to complete one of the newly revised Crop Protection Management Plans (CPMP) for 2009-10 to show their support for the use of voluntary measures to tackle challenges facing the industry.

The new CPMP was launched last year by the farming unions after extensive market research and the new format resulted in a 21 per cent increase in the area covered by management plans and a 12 per cent increase in the numbers returned to the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).

This year’s modifications are designed to reflect any changes in legislation or best practice advice. In particular, the new best practice metaldehyde advice and new VI advice on buffers is included.

The rise in the number of plans returned happened despite management plans being removed as a point-scoring option from English Entry Level Stewardship, and the failure of attempts to develop an alternative.

The online version, launched last year, saw 817 plans returned in this way, representing 20 per cent of the area returned. Completing a plan this way offers many advantages including automatic scoring, automated action plans, and easier return to the NFU.

NFU deputy president Meurig Raymond said: “The CPMP remains a vital measure for proper planning when using pesticides and the increase in numbers last year was great news.

“With the Sustainable Use Directive being introduced in the next two years, and the Water Framework Directive now being implemented, it is vital that pesticides continue to be used responsibly and we feel the CPMP is an important tool for reviewing farm practices.

“We need to work with DEFRA to look at new ways of supporting the CPMP and explore how best it can help farmers meet the requirements of these Directives and make the most of voluntary measures to minimise red tape. At this time it is vital that farmers show their support for voluntary measures and continue to use pesticides responsibly.”