DAFM confirms changes to Nitrates Regulations
Type Media Article
Ábagh Harten, Walsh Scholar, Teagasc Ballinrobe
The intensification of the agricultural sector in Ireland has resulted in economic benefits while also creating environmental challenges.
Increased fertiliser use has contributed to a rise in phosphorous and nitrates being lost into our waterways. Increased stocking rates have resulted in a rise in methane and nitrous oxide emissions, while intensive land use practices have resulted in declining biodiversity and habitat loss accelerating climate change.
The Nitrates Action Programme, introduced in 2004 aimed to tackle these problems by imposing rules related to slurry storage requirements, stocking rate and chemical fertiliser limits with an upper stocking rate limit of 170kgs of organic nitrogen per hectare being introduced. Those who required a higher stocking rate had to apply for derogation allowing them to farm up to 250kg N/ha.
Despite this, it was acknowledged that a more focused effort is required to combat these environmental challenges with water quality being a matter of ongoing concern.
The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine have confirmed changes to the Nitrates Action Programme (NAP). The European Commission sought a mid-term review which has concluded with revised regulations being signed into law as part of an effort to retain the nitrates derogation as part of the next Nitrates Action Programme. A summary of the 8 main changes are highlighted below.
Nutrient excretion rates
Calves' nutrient excretion rates have been adjusted to account for their decreased nutrient output, particularly in their first 90 days. Nutrient excretion rates for other cattle aged less than 1 year and for 1-2 year olds are also updated to reflect the latest Teagasc research.
Crude protein and dairy cows
Recognition of the lower nitrogen excretion rate achieved by dairy farmers who opt to manage crude protein in the concentrates fed to their cows across the year.
Maximum crude protein at grass
The maximum crude protein content allowed in concentrates fed to cattle aged two years and over at grass between 15th April and 30th September is reduced from 15% to 14% and this requirement now applies to all farmers.
Reduced stocking rates
A new maximum stocking rate for derogation farms of 220 kg N per hectare will apply to areas identified by the EPA in need of nitrates reductions from the 1st of December, 2025 (more land will come into the 220 map as it’s known).
New nitrogen limits
A 5% reduction in the chemical nitrogen allowance for grassland on higher stocked farms as well as a new lower chemical nitrogen allowance for extensively stocked livestock farms.
New limit on lands over 30km away
Nitrates Derogation applicants, the maximum stocking rate will be limited to 170kg N/ha for land more than 30km ‘as the crow flies’ from the main farm-holding unless demonstrable evidence is provided to DAFM to show that this land is being farmed at an appropriate higher level.
Inclusion of clover in reseeds
Mandatory inclusion of clover when reseeding perennial rye grass-based swards now applies to all farmers.
Ban on unprotected granular urea
A provision has been introduced to allow a restriction on the use of unprotected urea in granular form which will apply from 15th September 2025. Application of urea in liquid form will still be permitted.
For any queries regarding the changes to the nitrates regulations and how these changes could affect your farm stock carrying capacity and fertiliser limits, contact your local Teagasc office or advisor.