DAERA encourages farmers and growers to participate in the 2026 Pesticide Usage Survey

Delivered by the Agri‑Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), these surveys rely on farmer and grower participation. By taking part, farmers and growers help ensure that future decisions, policies, and support reflect the real pesticide needs and practices of Northern Ireland’s agricultural and horticultural sector.

The 2026 survey covers Arable Crops, Top Fruit Crops and Soft Fruit Crops, with surveys commencing in October 2026. Farmers and growers selected through a random sample will receive a letter from AFBI requesting details of their plant protection product usage during the 2026 growing season.

How the 2026 surveys will work:

AFBI will send a letter and survey form to randomly selected Arable Crop, Top Fruit Crop and Soft Fruit Crop growers. The form should be completed and returned within two weeks in the stamped, addressed envelope provided. The letter will also include a link to complete the arable survey online, together with a contact mobile number and email address for submitting electronic records.

Any details given will be strictly confidential. AFBI may ring farmers to gather further information, however, no information on individual growers or their use of pesticides will be shared.

If farmers and growers have any questions about the survey, or need help filling it in, they will be able to contact AFBI via the details in the survey letters.

For further information visit: https://www.afbini.gov.uk/article/pesticide-usage-monitoring-surveys or contact: [email protected]