New nitrates rules look set to send the land market into overdrive.

Derogation farmers could be forced to rent or buy an additional 68,000ac to comply with nitrates rules changes which significantly reduce stocking densities.

Farmers who are unable to source additional land could have to cull cows. The total cull could potentially exceed 50,000 cows, according to impact analysis by the IFA.

It estimates that a reduction in the organic nitrogen limit for derogation farms from 250kg/ha to 220kg/ha will cost farmers €18,300, on average, where they are unable to rent additional land and are forced to cull cows.

The nitrates changes will add further fuel to an already feverish land rental market. Rental prices for 2023 have already increased by €100/ac, with land making from €350/ac to €500/ac across the south and east on the back of unprecedented dairy farmer demand.