Nitrates and Phosphorus Regulations 2006
The Nitrates Action Programme (NAP) Regulations (NI) 2006 and the Phosphorus (Use in Agriculture) (P) Regulations (NI) 2006 were introduced on 1 January 2007 to improve the use of nutrients on farms and as a result improve water quality.
The Nitrates Directive is one of the Cross Compliance Statutory Management Requirements. Therefore, farmers claiming Single Farm Payment and other direct payments are required to comply with the NAP Regulations. Measures relating to the P Regulations are not Cross Compliance Verifiable Standards. However, adherence to both sets of Regulations is required by law.
NAP & P Regulations Information
- Guidance Document on how to comply with Nitrates Action Programme (NAP) Regulations (NI) 2006 and the Phosphorus (Use in Agriculture) (P) Regulations (NI) 2006 (PDF 1.66 MB)
- Nitrates and Phosphrous Regulations 2007 Summary Document (PDF 208 KB)
- Action Programme Workbook Document (PDF 831 KB) (to calculate livestock manure nitrogen and manure storage)
- Frequently Asked Questions on Nitrates and Phosphorus Regulations
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Nitrates Directive Derogation
Under the terms of the Nitrates Directive, Member States which introduce a compliant action programme may apply for a derogation from the statutory 170 KG nitrogen per hectare per year (N/ha/year) livestock manure limit. On 15 October 2007 the European Commission and Member States accepted the Northern Ireland (NI) case for a derogation. This derogation is particularly important for the intensive grassland farms in NI with higher than average stocking rates.
- Eligible farmers can apply up to 250 KG grazing livestock manure nitrogen per hectare per year provided certain measures are adhered to. A summary of the key measures contained in the derogation is now available.
- Farmers who wish to apply for a derogation must do so annually. For 2008, application forms must be completed and returned to the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) on or before 1 March 2008.
- Regulations to implement the measures will be brought into operation (subject to NI Assembly procedures) in early 2008. A comprehensive Guidance Booklet will then be available.
- CAFRE will be organising a series of information meetings for those farmers considering applying for a derogation.
Derogation Information
Information and application forms can be downloaded or obtained in hardcopy from the EHS, Water Management Unit , 17 Antrim Road, Lisburn, BT28 3AL Telephone 028 9262 3189 or your local DARD office – contact Countryside Management Branch staff.
, 17 Antrim Road, Lisburn, BT28 3AL Telephone 028 9262 3189 or your local DARD office – contact Countryside Management Branch staff.- Nitrates Directive Derogation - summary of key measures. (PDF 155 KB)
- EHS letter to farmers considering applying for a derogation. (PDF 76 KB)
- Application form for Nitrates Directive Derogation. (PDF 91 KB)
- Completing the N.D. Derogation Application Form (PDF 197 KB)
Inspection and Enforcement
Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) is responsible for inspection and enforcement under the NAP and P Regulations. For further information contact EHS on 028 92 623184.
is responsible for inspection and enforcement under the NAP and P Regulations. For further information contact EHS on 028 92 623184.To view PDFs 