Changes to NVZ Action programme are disappointing

Unnecessary changes to the NVZ Action Programme will pile pressure on an already struggling dairy industry and make it difficult to utilise slurry effectively, the NFU said today.

Despite Defra leaving many parts of the NVZ Action Programme unchanged, a two week extension of the closed period for spreading slurry and poultry manure will increase the severity and costliness of the programme. This comes despite the Government’s own evidence showing a widespread and continuing decline in nitrate levels.

In its consultation response in March, the NFU questioned the necessity of pre-empting results of the 2008 Action Programme, which has not had long enough to contribute to further reductions in nitrate levels.

NFU Deputy President Meurig Raymond said: “Our members will find it more difficult to utilise slurry effectively without causing crop or soil damage as the Government continues to shrink the window when application is practical. The additional costs of damage to crops or to soil structure will also make it more difficult for struggling dairy farmers to keep their heads above water.

“Defra’s consultation offered the choice between longer closed periods and a reduced maximum application in the weeks after the closed period ends. From a practical perspective shorter closed periods and better practice when spreading is a far easier pill to swallow. But it is galling to see that Irish closed periods and slurry storage are already less demanding than those in England, despite the wetter climate of Ireland.

“A further disappointment is Defra’s decision not to act on the NFU’s proposal to amend the grassland derogation so that it can help dairy farmers with between 70 and 80 per cent of their farm in grass, as comparerd to the present situation where only farms with 80 per cent or more grass receive this help. At a time when maintaining their businesses is so challenging, dairy farmers could have been helped by greater flexibility over derogations.”