The window for derogation applications is now open. Applications for 2018 Nitrates Derogations can be made online up to the 20 April closing date. No postal applications will be accepted.

Farmers who applied for a Derogation in 2017 have until the same date to submit fertiliser accounts. End of year nitrogen and phosphorus statements (N&P statements) for 2017 are available on the Department’s online system www.agfood.ie or by phoning 053-916 3444.

The Nitrates Derogation is a facility for farmers who exceed the limit of 170kg of livestock manure per hectare, up to a maximum of 250kg/ha. To qualify, the farm must be at least 80% grass and have grazing livestock.

A fertiliser plan has to in place by 1 March and be submitted to the Department with the application form. Where a new or amended fertiliser plan is submitted in 2018, only a plan produced by the Teagasc Online Nutrient Management Plan programme (eNMP) is acceptable.

Soil analysis

Fertiliser plans must be based on soil analysis results dated after 15 September 2014. New applicants who do not have soil analysis results must assume Index 3 for 2018 but soil sample analysis, in respect of crop year 2019, must be available and the fertiliser plan amended accordingly and submitted online to the Department before 31 March 2019.

Derogation farmers must have sufficient storage for all livestock manure and soiled water produced on their holding. Fifty per cent of livestock manure produced on the holding must be applied by 15 June. Slurry applied after that date can only be applied using low-emission equipment.

More information is available on the Department website.

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Know your derogation dates