NVZ Grassland Derogation Applications For 2010
UK - Farmers of grazing livestock are now able to apply for a derogation to spread up to 250kg of livestock manure nitrogen per hectare per year, up from the current limit of 170kg set by the EU Nitrates Directive.
11 January 2010
1 minute read
Around 60 per cent of nitrate pollution in water is caused by agriculture, and the Government has regulations in place to protect England’s rivers and groundwater from agriculture, keeping rivers in healthy condition and protecting drinking water.
Defra has successfully negotiated with the European Commission for a derogation from the current 170kg limit, and guidance to farmers on applying for this derogation has also been published. Farmers wishing to take advantage of the derogation must apply by 31 March using the Whole Farm Approach website or direct to the Environment Agency by telephone or post.
To be eligible for the derogation, at least 80 per cent of a farmer’s land must be grassland and additional conditions, designed to protect waters, must be met. Full details of the criteria can be found at: www.defra.gov.uk/environment/quality/water/waterquality/diffuse/nitrate/derogation.htm
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