Closed period for slurry spreading around the corner
After being extended on two occasions over the last number of weeks, the closed period for the application of slurry will now commence on October 15th 2023.
Darragh O’Brien T.D, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in consultation with Charlie McConalogue T.D, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, had agreed to extend the slurry spreading period by seven days on October 4th. This was the second time in which a week-long extension was agreed, as the initial closed period was to commence on September 30th 2023.
The decision to extend the slurry spreading period was based on evidence which had been assessed against the published criteria. This contained elements such as ground conditions and grass growth levels. This decision has been made in accordance with the provisions set out in Article 19 (1) of SI No. 113 of 2022 (as amended).
When announcing the decision to extend the slurry spreading period, Minister McConalogue said: “I recognise that unseasonable weather conditions experienced this summer and during September have impacted trafficability and provided limited opportunities for slurry applications by farmers and contractors.”
Although the published criteria do not provide for a prolonged extension period, the Minister reminded farmers that the additional week of an extension will facilitate the prudent application by farmers.
He continued: “Given the need to deliver on our commitments to improving water quality, it is fundamental that slurry is applied under the right conditions and at the right time of year. It is critical that farm practices deliver on water quality. As part of this, nutrient application must align with crop uptake.”
Farmers have also been reminded to observe the buffer zones that apply at this time of the year. In addition, farmers should also be aware that there is no provision in the Regulations (SI No 113 of 2022, as amended) to extend the slurry spreading period beyond the 14th of October.