Defra has published today the application for a grassland derogation for land that is within a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ).
You must apply for a derogation to spread more than 170kg of Nitrogen from manure from grazing livestock on your farm. This is the standard limit usually set.
Tom Selby of Rostons states that this is likely to be a welcome opportunity for landowners, particularly dairy farmers who have at least 80% of their land down to grass who can now apply between the 3rd October and 31st December 2016 for a derogation for the following year. If your application is approved you will be able to spread up to 250kg of Nitrogen per hectare in 2017.
If you would like any more information or would like to apply for this derogation, please contact Tom on 01829 773000