Following on from last week’s Q&A on the new elements of the nitrates derogation, we look at the remaining aspects that derogation farmers will have to comply with.

Q: What mandatory environmental training has to be completed by farmers?

A: Farmers who are operating under a derogation in 2020 will be required to complete a training course that will encompass a number of different areas, including nutrient management and planning, water quality, emissions and biodiversity. This training could be delivered through meetings, farm visits or online modules. In order to satisfy the derogation requirements, the applicant will be required to provide proof of completion of the training, which has to be completed by the end of 2021.

Q: Are there new requirements for reseeding the farm?

A: Farmers farming under a derogation will be required to introduce clover into all reseeds to help reduce nitrogen dependency. From 2020, there will be a requirement to incorporate a minimum of 1.5kg/ha of naked clover seed and 2.5kg/ha of pelleted clover seed into all new grass reseeds. Either variety of clover can be used; white clover for grazing or red clover for silage swards. This will also apply to any swards reseeded in 2021. It will also be permitted to over-sow the seed into pasture after weed control has been achieved. The Department of Agriculture has said that this aspect may be reviewed further for the next nitrates action programme review.

Q: What measure will farmers have to adopt from the all-island pollinator plan?

A: Derogation farmers will be required to adopt at least one of the following measures in relation to the all-island pollinator plan: leave at least one mature whitethorn or blackthorn tree within each 300m of hedgerow; or maintain hedgerows on a minimum three-year cycle. Cutting annually stops the hedgerow flowering and fruiting. Details of this will be captured as part of the derogation application and under the nutrient management plan.