The UK horticulture industry will be watching events in Surrey closely this week for any escalation of the foot and mouth outbreak.
As Commercial Grower went to press, two cases had been confirmed within a 3km protection zone in Surrey on Tuesday night.
Graham Ward, director of Stockbridge Technology Centre, told Commercial Grower that whilst the outbreak may not pose an immediate threat to the horticultural industry, it could have a negative effect on smaller growers.
Tourists could be put off visiting rural areas, especially following the floods, he opined, with those growers who also rely on bed and breakfasts and farm shops particularly vulnerable.
“There wouldn’t be tourists around to eat local produce, which means that hotels and restaurants will buy less of it - so I think there will be a side effect for the industry,”
agreed Richard Hirst, chairman of the NFU board for horticulture, although he stressed that there is no direct danger to horticulture at present.
Nevertheless the NFU is encouraging its members to be vigilant on biosecurity. “As an organisation, we are urging people, when they are moving from farm to farm, to think about keeping wheels and boots and clothing clean - that’s the most important thing,” he said.
David Gwyther, director general of the Hoticultural Trades Association, also urged caution. "We are extremely concerned to hear about the two outbreaks that have been confirmed so far. We hope Defra have learnt from the previous outbreak to be able to contain this.
“If there are further outbreaks trade will be inhibited and it will be more difficult to move plant stock around the country. Fundamentally it will also put consumers off from visiting horticultural sites such as retail nurseries and garden centres. It could well affect trade."
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