Water quality has been an issue in agriculture for many years and we have obligations to meet under the Water Framework Directive. However, the most recent Water Quality Report from the Environmental Protection Agency for 2013-2018 has shown that water quality in Ireland declined during that period.

In recent years, a new collaborative approach to improving water quality with the help of industry and stakeholder collaboration resulted in the creation of the Agricultural Sustainability, Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP).

The programme sets out to tackle the 190 priority areas for action (PAAs) in regards to water quality. This is a collaborative process involving an evidence-based approach with these advisors working closely with farmers to identify, educate and advise.

A recent report on the progress of the programme (Interim Report #1 | 2018 – 2019) indicated that the initial work has been positive. Being able to provide scientific assessments for each of the priority areas has helped to increase the understanding of the issues affecting water quality. Both agricultural and non-agricultural pressures are being assessed.

Around 96% of farmers in the PAAs engaged with the ASSAP advisers. While initial progress will have to be sustained over time, it is still encouraging in terms of meeting our obligations under the Water Framework Directive and reinforcing our green image.

The report indicates that diffuse nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment losses account for 75% of the agricultural pressures in these priority areas. Point source pollution, pesticides and ammonium losses contribute the remainder.