Farmers are being urged to tighten security and remain vigilant following new online activity by activist groups planning coordinated farm invasions across the UK.
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has published updated guidance for farmers to protect their property, livestock and families after years of destructive trespassing to film or livestream agricultural operations.
The union said such intrusions not only cause suffering, but also pose serious risks to biosecurity, animal welfare and personal safety.
Although the number of cases has decreased thanks to prosecutors in recent years, the UFU warned that farmers need to remain “vigilant and prepared”.
Activist incursions are often carefully planned in advance, with groups spending weeks or months observing potential locations, sometimes visiting them under false pretenses or installing hidden cameras. Some scour social media for clues about farm locations and daily life.
Farmers are advised to regularly check the security of their premises. This includes locking gates and buildings, checking boundaries, checking fences and lighting, and installing surveillance cameras if possible. Signs that clearly identify a property as private property also help police act quickly in the event of trespassing.
The UFU also emphasizes the importance of proper livestock management and proper disposal of downed livestock. Sick or injured animals should be kept in clean, well-bedded enclosures to prevent misrepresentation in photos or videos, and carcasses should be immediately removed to a secure bin or building and clearly marked.
Farmers are asked not to intervene if a drone is spotted in the sky. Instead, record the time and location, and if possible, take a photo of the device or operator before calling the police.
Online, farmers should avoid sharing personally identifiable details about their farms and animals and should not engage directly with activists. Harassment or false claims must be documented with screenshots as evidence.
“Compliance with all legal and assurance system standards is the first line of protection,” the UFU said. “We urge all members to ensure their farms are ready for inspection at all times.”
If activists enter the premises, the UFU advises farmers to remain calm, act professionally and avoid confrontation. Trespassers should be politely and firmly asked to leave, even if they have already left, while you immediately contact the police.
“Activists often livestream their actions, so any interaction can be instantly broadcast and taken out of context,” the UFU warned.
Farmers have the right to record footage on their land for evidence purposes. The union recommends collecting details such as vehicle registration, facial appearance, and any visible damage as these may be helpful in later investigations.
Farmers have been asked not to speak to the media during or after the incursion, as the publicity could “serve the objectives of the activists, not the farmers.” Trespassers should never be allowed to remove animals from the premises. This is theft and should be reported to the police.
While the use of reasonable force is permitted to protect people or property, the UFU stressed that any action must be proportionate and justified and that personal safety must always come first.
Trespassing is usually a civil matter, but if activists cause damage, disrupt business operations, or force entry, it can escalate to aggravated trespassing, and police may order individuals to leave. Failure to comply may result in prosecution.
“Farm infestations remain relatively rare, but when they do occur, farmers are extremely concerned,” the UFU said. “The best defense is thorough preparation, proper management, and a calm, professional response.”
