First introduced in 2018 as part of the UK’s shift from EU regulations to domestic agricultural law, the updated rules aim to further reduce diffuse pollution from agriculture, particularly in watercourses.
Following a High Court ruling, the Environment Agency must now prioritise the immediate nutritional needs of crops over broader, longer-term nutrient requirements, prompting a stricter interpretation and enforcement of the regulations.
From Recommendations to Legal Requirements
While the original rules offered best-practice guidance, the latest updates make several measures mandatory or required, rather than advisory. Land managers must now:
- Conduct regular soil sampling and analysis
- Test organic manures before application (rather than relying on standard reference data like RB209)
- Assess the nutrient requirements of crops
- Provide evidence of crop need and a plan to minimise the risk of diffuse pollution
At the core of these requirements is a nutrient management plan, which every land manager must maintain to demonstrate compliance.
Stricter Controls on Autumn Manure Applications
One of the most immediate changes affecting land managers is the regulation of manure spreading in autumn. Application is now permitted only where there is a clear agronomic need. This shift places greater pressure on farmers to justify their use of nutrients in line with crop demand and soil conditions.
Another notable amendment concerns overwinter land cover. Fields must now have an established green cover by 15 October. This is likely to influence future DEFRA schemes, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), where winter cover crops may no longer be eligible for funding due to the overlap with these tightened standards.
Limited Exceptions
DEFRA has outlined two limited exceptions to the new autumn green cover requirement:
- Where delayed drilling is necessary for managing persistent weeds, like blackgrass
- To allow weathering of medium to heavy soils ahead of spring root crops
Impact on Livestock Enterprises
In addition, land managers must ensure they do not raise the soil phosphorus index above the recommended level for their soil type and crop plan. This poses a particular challenge for farms with livestock enterprises. Farmers in this sector will need to be especially cautious in managing applications and demonstrating compliance.
Final Thoughts
These updated regulations reflect the government’s firm commitment to tackling agricultural pollution and promoting sustainable soil management. As always, proactive planning and accurate nutrient data will be key to staying compliant and to making the most of land and crop potential under these evolving rules.
