Nitrates Directive: Good Agricultural Practice For Protection of Waters
Directive 91/676/EEC on the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources, relates to management of farm wastes and run off to protect surface water and groundwater.
The directive is implemented in Ireland by S.I. No. 101/2009 – European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice For Protection of Waters) Regulations 2009 which revoke, and re-enact with amendments, the European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations, 2006 and 2007.
The 2009 Regulations provide for:
- Strengthened statutory support for the protection of waters against pollution from agricultural sources e.g. by phosphorus or nitrogen
- Avoidance of careless practices by farmers, which create a risk of causing pollution
- Inspections by local authorities.