Eight week window for Nitrates Derogation applications
Farmers availing of the Nitrates Derogation for 2023 have until March 31 to do so, with the application process now available through the Department of Agriculture’s Agfood.ie portal.
The Nitrates Derogation is contingent on meeting water quality standards, and these measures are designed to protect water quality and where appropriate to also provide biodiversity benefits. More intensively stocked farmers have been encouraged to engage with this application process and to discuss the need for a derogation with their agricultural advisor as soon as possible.
Commenting on its opening, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue said: “The Nitrates Derogation provides farmers with an opportunity to farm at higher stocking rates without compromising our water quality.
“The Nitrates Derogation is subject to certain strict conditions designed to protect the environment and meet the requirements of the Nitrates Directive.
“All farmers have an important role to play in protecting our environment particularly those farming more intensively, and it is crucial that we protect and restore our waters as soon as possible to maintain the nitrates derogation at current levels into the future. Water quality is crucial to a healthy environment and farmers are keen to drive further improvements here.”
Dairy farmers, who previously did not avail of the derogation, are also strongly encouraged to consult with their agricultural advisor, due to the new excretion rate bands applicable for dairy cows from January 1st 2023. The three bands applicable for dairy cows are: 80kg N/cow, 92 kg N/cow and 106 kg N/cow per year. Previously all dairy cows were considered equal in terms of nutrient excretion rate at 89kg N/cow per year.
To reflect differences in nutrient output as milk yield increases, from 2023 onwards, each dairy herd will be confirmed annually as being in one of the three bands based on the herd’s average milk yield/cow. Applying for a Nitrates Derogation may assist these dairy farmers to comply with the limits set out in the Nitrates Regulations. DAFM will shortly write to farmers individually regarding the banding options applicable to their herd and the requirements around banding. This will help farmers inform themselves to make important decisions in the year ahead.
Farmers who applied for a derogation in 2022 are also reminded they must submit fertiliser accounts for 2022 by the closing date of March 31st, 2023.