Slurry Spreading Can Begin – But be Careful

Organic manures and chemical fertilisers can be spread from the 1 February; but only if conditions are favourable. It might be tempting to spread slurry immediately but no organic or chemical fertilisers can be applied on land which is frozen or snow covered, waterlogged, flooded, liable to flood or when heavy rain is forecast.  Applications also cannot be made on steep slopes where a significant risk of water pollution exists.

Since January 2009 all farmers must have a minimum livestock storage capacity of at least 26 weeks for pig and poultry enterprises and 22 weeks for all other enterprises. This storage capacity will allow farmers to have sufficient storage for the closed spreading period and also provide flexibility if conditions are unfavourable.

When spreading remember that organic and chemical fertilisers must be spread certain distances from waterways.  Keep at least 10m from waterways when spreading slurry. This can be reduced to 3m when the field is less than 1ha in size or the slurry is applied using a band spreader or trailing shoe. Chemical fertiliser must be applied at least 1.5m away from watercourses.

It is important to note that the Nitrates Action Programme is a requirement of Cross Compliance.  Failure to comply may result in a breach and could potentially result in the loss or reduction of the Single Farm Payment and other direct payments.

If you require further information regarding the requirements of the Nitrates Action Programme contact Countryside Management Delivery Branch at your local DARD office or alternatively click on www.dardni.gov.uk.

Slurry spreading can begin from 1 February, but only if conditions are favourable.