Approximately 450 farmers have applied for a derogation from a European Union NVZ (Nitrate Vulnerable Zone) rule to use an extra 50% of manure on farm. The alternatives could have forced farmers in moving a third of manure off farm, get access to 50% more land or reduce manure by cutting down on stocking density.

“This is great news for the 450 farmers who applied for the derogation after a direct text from the NFU encouraging them to do so. It means these farmers, mainly involved in dairy production, can use and get the benefit from 50% more slurry on their farms instead of being forced to ‘export’ manure, find extra land or reduce stock numbers. Any of these options could have proven extremely costly to farmers. Defra estimates that the dairy sector has halved the costs imposed by the directive, saving up to £20 million.” NFU Vice President Gwyn Jones.

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