Planning to import slurry? Make sure to complete a nutrient plan first

It is important that farmers have an idea of the maximum amounts they can import to avoid compliance breaches, Teagasc adviser says

A common misconception is that all farms with little or no livestock can import nutrients, but this is not necessarily the case, a Teagasc adviser has warned.

Farmers interested in importing slurry, in order to minimise fertiliser costs, are advised by Teagasc to complete a nutrient management plan first to assess their nutrient needs against slurry import rules.

Tom Deane, Teagasc advisor in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, said there had been increased interest in importing of slurry and farmyard manure as a means of reducing fertiliser input costs.