Welsh farmers urged to follow slurry spreading rules

Farmers in Wales have been reminded to follow the rules when it comes to spreading slurry and other manure.

The call from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) comes as the closed period, prohibiting the spreading of slurry and other organic manures, came to an end on Thursday 16 January.

Specific restrictions, however, remain in place under the Welsh government’s control of agricultural pollution regulations.

See also: Appeals process set out for breaches of Welsh NVZ rules

The restrictions include spreading a maximum of 30cu m/ha of slurry or 8t/ha of poultry manure at one time. There must also be at least a three-week interval between each application.

Environmental factors, such as weather and soil conditions, proximity to waterways, slope and ground cover, also need to be assessed by carrying out a field inspection prior to spreading.

Farmers are further required to plan and record all applications to meet soil and crop need in their nitrogen management plan, as well as comply with nitrogen limits.

Spreading is strictly prohibited on waterlogged, flooded, snow-covered, or frozen soil, and soil that has been frozen for more than 12 hours in the previous 24 hours.

The closed period for spreading on tillage land remains in place until 31 January for all soils, other than sandy or shallow types.

“Farmers, tenants, landlords and contractors must carefully consider conditions to determine the best time for spreading any organic manures,” said leader of NRW’s agricultural pollution inspection team, Simon Griffiths.

“If conditions are suitable, spreading may resume across communities. However, any instances of pollution will be investigated, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken.” 

Farmers are encouraged to self-report pollution incidents immediately to NRW to reduce environmental harm. Members of the public are also urged to report any signs of pollution.

To report pollution incidents, contact NRW online or call 0300 065 3000.