A Tall Order On Nitrate Regulations
WALES - Proposed changes to the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) Action Programme will pose a big challenge for Welsh dairy farmers over the next two years and it is expected that many of these farmers will also face substantial cost increases.
14 November 2007
2 minute read
There is clear evidence in Wales that nitrate levels are actually declining so we are questioning the science behind the proposal to increase the amount of land designated.
Dai Davies, NFU Cymru President
Dai Davies, NFU Cymru President, will use the Welsh Dairy Event to explain to farmers, who could be in the proposed NVZ designated areas of Wales, how they could be affected if the current proposals get the go-ahead and also how they can have their say on the proposed changes.
The new areas of Wales proposed to be designated as NVZ's are in parts of Denbighshire, Dyserth, Holywell, Lily Ponds Pembrokeshire, Llyn Coron, Anglesey, Monmouth, Neston and east of Fourcrosses near Welshpool. Maps are available on NFU Cymru's and the Welsh Assembly's websites.
Dai Davies said, "NFU Cymru is extremely concerned about these proposals which will mean an increase in the amount of land designated as NVZ in Wales and their potential effects on already vulnerable businesses. There is clear evidence in Wales that nitrate levels are actually declining so we are questioning the science behind the proposal to increase the amount of land designated."
NFU Cymru will also continue to question the Environment Agency and the Welsh Assembly Government on why storage requirements are longer than closed periods and asking for a clear commitment for capital grants on a par with those in Ireland and to reinstate the 250Kg/ha whole farm limit for organic manures. The Union will also argue that record keeping requirements are excessive.
Dai Davies concluded, "These proposals, if they are submitted by the Assembly to the European Commission will cost the average dairy farmer in Wales dearly. Not only will capital have to be spent but it could mean either a stock reduction or the need to buy or rent more land to retain current stock numbers. Inevitably it will mean some farmers in these areas contemplating if they have any future in dairying It is ridiculous when we already have cross compliance rules that this will be yet another burden on the milk industry. Furthermore the costs involved are totally disproportionate to any environmental benefit but yet again the axe falls on the farming industry."
NFU Cymru will continue its fight against these proposals on behalf of members. Affected farmers are strongly urged to contact their Assembly Members with details of how the proposals will affect their individual businesses.
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