Calculator ideal tool as nitrates cut-off approaches

FARMERS who think they will exceed the 170kg of nitrogen per hectare limit this year have until Friday, April 3, to apply for a derogation.

Unlike last year, they cannot apply for a derogation on their single payment form.

A new, separate application form and full details of the system are available on the department’s www.agriculture.gov.ie website. Forms (and copies of 2008 nitrogen and phosphorus statements) can also be obtained from local district veterinary offices, or from the Nitrates Section, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Johnstown Castle, Co Wexford (tel: [phone]).