Wexford Farmers Urged To Follow Spreading Rules This Winter

Farmers in County Wexford are being reminded to follow the rules and regulations around the use of spreading this winter.

Wexford County Council has posted information about the closed period dates for organic fertilisers.

The application of organic fertilisers (excluding Farmyard Manure) is prohibited between the 1st of October and the 12th of January. 

The council says slurry spreading at this time can increase the risk of nutrient runoff and impact water quality.

Manure can't be applied or stored on the land between the 1st of November and 12th of January.

This means farmyard manure can be spread on the land next month but must be finished by the start of November.

The council is asking landowners to work with them to protect our rivers, streams and groundwater for future generations.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon has promised to continue monitoring the current situation in respect to fertiliser and slurry spreading dates.

The Minister has acknowledged weather conditions this year presented “significant challenges for many farmers”, especially due to the drought in the south and South-East.

Minister Heydon also said he will speak to stakeholders and will keep an eye on the grass growth and the fodder situation on farms this winter.

That report was funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.