NI Water has opened a farm chemical disposal scheme in the Lough Erne catchment area. The programme targets farmers in most of County Fermanagh and parts of County Tyrone.

Registration is available until April 27 for up to 50 applicants. A contractor will collect unwanted herbicides, weed-killers, sheep dips, insecticide sprays, rodenticides, fungicide sprays, veterinary medicines, and empty containers free of charge from farmyards on set dates. Collections start in May 2026.

Contractor McQuillan Environmental will handle safe disposal in line with waste management rules. Kerry Morris, NI Water Catchment Officer, stated the initiative aims to prevent chemicals from entering watercourses that supply local drinking water.

The Ulster Farmers' Union backs the scheme. Glenn Cuddy, UFU deputy president, urged eligible farmers to register for the service to clear stores and ensure proper disposal.

This follows similar NI Water schemes in the River Derg, River Faughan, and Lower Bann areas.