The furore around the DAERA consultation on the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) has some implications that go well beyond the headline issues.

A number of livestock farmers have pointed out that the debacle has left other farmers they rely on to take slurry cautious about continuing that relationship.

That would create a real problem for those who export slurry to stay under the manure nitrogen (N) limit of 170kg/ha.

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There are two main areas explored in the NAP consultation relating to slurry exports. The first relates to a proposed limit of 150kg manure N/ha for the importing farm. If slurry imports take the business above 150kg (but still below 170kg), then DAERA has suggested it should be subject to the same phosphorus (P) balance requirements of intensive farms.

In practice, it might be possible to meet new P limits if the importing farm is making good use of grass and not buying any P chemical fertiliser. However, it will definitely involve added hassle many will want to avoid.

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The second issue is a proposal from DAERA that the farm receiving the slurry notifies the department within four days of the movement taking place. That would represent a significant change from the current rules where movements must be notified by the exporting farm before the end of January in the following year.

Whether either requirement actually ends up in law remains to be seen, and with DAERA committing to a second NAP consultation, any changes have already been delayed.

But at the same time, there is a need for more business-like relationships when it comes to slurry exports. There has been a lot of talk about the need to process P out of slurry and get it off the island, but we also need to ensure we properly utilise the nutrients already here.

A few simple calculations would suggest a 2,000 gallon tanker of cattle or pig slurry has a nutrient value of around £50.

It would be up to individual farmers to work out who pays for haulage, etc, but if you have a close neighbour willing to take your slurry and complete any potential paperwork, it is a relationship that should be valued.