Annex 1: Examine the current applicable manure-N efficiency rates in
the EU 27 by studying literature and contacting research centres /
competent administrations in the MS
Aims:
Identify, report and critically evaluate how manure-N efficiency is taken into account by MS in the
action programme(s) (AP).
Liaison with MS to elicit further information, in particular to identify any specific regional differences in
manure-N efficiency rates at MS and regional level and provide a comprehensive overview of the
calculation method and underpinning information for established manure-N efficiency rates
Approach
An evaluation of the current situation with respect to how manure-N efficiency is taken into account
was carried out via an extensive review of the APs and available literature for each MS and contacts
with research centres/competent authorities in the MS. The assessment includes an analysis of
which definition for manure-N efficiency is used by the MS, as there are several terms which may be
used to describe manure-N efficiency (Table 1).
Table 1: Terms used to describe the efficiency with which manure-N may be used by crops
Term
Definition
Description
Available-N
Usually the mineral or easily mineralized
The N in manures potentially available for crop
fraction of manure-N
uptake in the season the manure is applied
Crop-available N The proportion of available-N remaining
The available-N remaining after loss following
as crop-available N will depend on
application to land as NH3, NO3-, etc.
factors such as time of manure
application and soil type
NFRV
Nitrogen fertilizer replacement value
The amount of N fertilizer that can be replaced
by manure-N
Manure-N
The proportion of manure-N that can be
Available-N plus N expected to be mineralized
over following seasons minus losses following
efficiency
recovered by crops over more than one
season, net of losses of N following
application to land as NH3, NO3 , etc.
application to land
An assessment was carried out based on the following questions:
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (using the
definitions in Table 1)
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
2.2. How is this mineral-N measured?
2.3. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is longer-term availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.2. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for? How it affected by method of application
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and are
there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
1
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application techniques to
reduce N losses and hence to increase N efficiency?
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between conventional
and organic production).
Results
The assessments of each member state are attached in the Annex. Table 2 shows a summary of the
assessment. The major findings are described below.
Definition
• None of the member states (MS) presents a specific reference to, or definition of, manure-N
efficiency in their AP or Code of Good Agricultural Practice (CGAP). The AP for the Lombardy
region of Italy does report efficiency coefficients for manure-N uptake according to soil type.
• The following countries do not take manure-N efficiency into account:
o Austria;
o Belgium-Wallonia;
o Bulgaria;
o Germany;
o Hungary;
o Malta;
o Luxemburg;
o Portugal;
o Romania;
o Slovenia;
o Spain.
• The other MS take account of manure-N efficiency using another terminology in their AP.
Based on additional sources or the way manure efficiency coefficients are presented in the
AP, it is concluded that seven of the MS use the Nitrogen (N) Fertilizer Replacement Value
(NVRF) as their estimate of manure-N efficiency:
o Belgium (Flanders);
o Czech Republic;
o Denmark;
o Finland;
o Latvia;
o Netherlands
o Poland.
While:
o England;
o Scotland;
o N. Ireland;
o Greece;
o Slovak Republic;
o Lithuania;
o Ireland
• use available N.
• The AP for Cyprus recommends analysis of manure to assess manure-N efficiency, the
French AP bases manure-N efficiency on the C:N ratio of manure while the Swedish AP
2
assess manure-N efficiency according to the mineral-N content of the manure. The Estonian
AP refers to 'direct effects'. The Italian AP uses the term ' efficiency coefficients' for livestock
manures in the AP.
Conclusion: There is no clear definition of manure-N efficiency in any AP or CGAP of the MS.
According to the AP, Austria, Belgium-Wallon, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Malta, Luxemburg,
Portugal, Romania and Slovenia do not take manure-N efficiency into account.
N efficiency figures
• Cattle slurry: There is a large range in N efficiency:
o Denmark uses the greatest of 70%;
o followed by Belgium Flanders, Czech Republic, and Netherlands (60%);
o Estonia, Latvia and Germany (50%);
o Ireland, Lithuania, and the UK (20-40%);
o Italy (24-62%) and Spain (40-70%) have a large range;
o Sweden calculates N efficiency from the ammonium, urea and nitrate content, corrected for
gaseous N losses.
• Pig slurry: most countries use the same values as for cattle slurry, except Germany (pig 60%
and cattle 50%), Ireland (pig 35-70% and cattle 30-40%), Netherlands (pig 60-70% and cattle
60%) and UK (N efficiency for pig slurry is about 5-10% greater than for cattle slurry).
• Solid manure. The N efficiency of solid manure is, as expected, less than that of slurry, but
still there is a large variation, ranging from 10% for UK-England and Scotland to 40-55% for
the Netherlands and 45-65% for Denmark. The N efficiency for solid manure for the other
countries range from 20-40% (i.e. Belgium Flanders, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany,
Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Spain, Slovak republic, and UK-Northern Ireland). Hungary uses
various values depending on quality of solid manure, yearly application, and soil conditions.
• Most countries only account the first year availability. Denmark (10 years), Estonia (for solid
manure), Hungary (four years), Latvia (2nd year), Lithuania (2nd and 3rd year), and Spain also
consider long-term availability.
Conclusion: There is large variation in manure-N efficiency coefficients for the same manure type
between MS. The cause for these differences (climate, soil, composition of manure, legislation) and
the underpinning of the values (rough estimated or underpinned by scientific studies) have to be
further assessed. Most countries consider only the availability in the first year.
Application techniques
Ammonia (NH3) losses have a large effect on the N efficiency of manure, especially for slurries rich in
ammonium.
• The following MS have regulations in the AP or CGAP to use reduced- NH3 emission
application techniques on arable land:
o Belgium Flanders;
o Bulgaria;
o Denmark;
o Estonia;
o Germany;
o Hungary;
o Ireland;
o Latvia;
o Lithuania;
o The Netherlands;
o Poland;
o Spain;
o Slovak republic;
o Sweden
o UK-England, and
o UK-Wales.
• The following MS have regulations in the AP or CGAP to use reduced- NH3 emission
application techniques on grassland:
3
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Belgium Flanders;
Denmark;
Germany;
Ireland;
Lithuania;
the Netherlands;
Poland;
Spain;
Sweden.
Conclusion: many countries have regulations to use reduced- NH3 emission application techniques.
However, the type of technique or method to be used differ greatly among countries. Therefore, there
will be considerable differences in NH3 losses and, consequently, manure-N efficiency among
countries. In a following phase, the method of manure application will be further assessed in order to
make an approximate estimate of the impact of the required application technique on NH3 losses.
Remarkably, there appears to be no relation between the manure-N efficiency and application
technique allowed or required. For example, the manure-N efficiency for cattle slurry in Lithuania is
only 35% in the first year, although application techniques with reduced- NH3 emission have to be
used. In the Czech Republic, with regulations for manure application, manure-N efficiency is
considered to be 60% for liquid slurries and 40% for solid manures.
Table 2 summarises how the N content of manure is taken into account in the APs of MS. Reports of
the AP for each MS are given in further text (part 1 of this annex).
4
Table 2: Summary of the assessment of member states’ action programmes.
Summary table: manure-N efficiency in Nitrates Directive AP of member stars (MS) of EU 27
1
MS
Definition of manure efficiency
Estimated first year efficiency for selected
manures in % of total-N?
In AP
additional
Estimated
Not
Not
Cattle
Pig
Solid
Poultry
sources
from AP
clear taken
slurry
slurry
manure
manure
into
account
Austria
No
No
X
NA
NA
NA
NA
No
Belgium Flanders
No
No
Belgium Wallonia
Bulgaria
No
No
No
No
Cyprus
No
No
Czech Republic
Denmark
No
No
No
Estonia
No
Finland
No
No
France
No
No
Germany
No
Manure
management
plan must be
produced
Greece
No
No
Hungary
No
No
Ireland
No
No
NFRV
X
X
Chemical
analysis
advised
NFRV
NFRV
X
Direct
effects
Indirect
indication:
NFRV
According
to C:N
ratio, ≤ 8
and >8
X
Available
N
X
AN
Long-term
availability
N from
livestock
Application technique in AP
Arable land
Grassland
No regulation
No regulation
Reduced NH3
Reduced NH3
No regulation
No regulation
60
60
30
30
No
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
No
No
Yes
(after
housing
and
storage
losses)
Yes, but
not in AP
Yes
No
NA
NA
NA
NA
No
No
No regulation
Incorporation < 2
days
No regulation
60
70
60
75
40
45-65
40
70
No
Yes, 10 yrs
Yes
Yes
No regulation
Low NH3
No regulation
Low NH3
50
50
25
25
No
NA
NA
NA
No
Incorporation as
soon as possible
No regulation
No regulation
NA
Yes, solid.
15%
No
No regulation
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
No regulation
No regulation
50
60
25 cattle
30 pig
60
No
Yes
Some
technologies are
forbidden
Some
technologies are
forbidden
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
No regulation
No regulation
NA
NA
NA
Values for
first to
fourth year
Yes
35-50
35-50
No
Yes
Slurry: even
application on or
into the soil,
FYM prompt
incorporation
No splash plate
Slurry: even
application on or
into the soil
30-40
Various,
depending
on quality,
application,
time, soil
20-30
5
No regulation
No splash plate
Italy
Yes
Malta
Latvia
No
No
No
Lithuania
No
NFRV
X
Xx
AN
Luxemburg
Netherlands
Poland
No
No
No
Portugal
Romania
Spain
No
No
No
Slovak Republic
Slovenia
No
No
X
NFRV
AN
total N
NFRV
NFRV
total N
AN
X
-
No
No
No
No
X
X
X
X
AN
No
X
Recommendations
Recommendations
No
No regulation
Yes
No
Incorporation:
Solid < 24 hr
Liquid < 12 hr
Reduced NH3
No
Yes
Yes
No regulation
Low NH3
Reduced NH3
No
No
No more
than 2
years
No
No
yes
No regulation
NA
Incorporation
within 24-48
hours
No regulation
Low NH3
Liquid manures
should be
applied directly
to the soil or
spread as top
dressing using
spreader hoses.
Spreading plates
may only be
used on cut
grassland and
permanent field
crops.
No regulation
NA
Incorporation
within 24-48
hours
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Low NH3
Even
application,
machines must
be maintained,
no damage must
be visible
Not clear
Even
application,
machines must
be maintained,
no damage must
be visible
24-62
28-73
--
32-84
no
NA
50
NA
50
NA
25
NA
25-30
No
Yes: 10nd
25% 2 yr
35
35
35
35
NA
60
NA
NA
60-70
NA
NA
40-55
NA
NA
55
NA
Yes: 25%
nd
2 and
rd
10% 3
year: in
total 70%
No
No
No
NA
NA
8 of 13
regions
NA
NA
8 of 13
regions
NA
NA
8 of 13
regions
NA
NA
8 of 13
regions
40-70
50
NA
40-70
50
NA
20-50
30
NA
60-90
50
NA
6
Yes, very
detailed
tables
No
Yes
Reduced NH3
Sweden
No
No
Easily
accessible
nitrogen:
Nitrogen in
the form of
nitrates,
ammonium
or urea.
75% of
remaining
NH4-N
after
reduction
of NH3
a
losses
100% of
NH4-N
remaining
after
reduction
of NH3
a
losses
NA
NA
Yes
Yes
Reduced NH3
Reduced NH3 in
some regions
UK-England
No
No
C-AN
20-35
25-45
10
20-30
No
Yes
Incorporation
None
UK-Northern Ireland
UK-Scotland
No
No
No
No
AN
30-40
20-35
35-50
25-45
20-30
10
20-30
20-30
No
None
None
UK-Wales
No
No
No
Incorporation
None
1
Yes
Joanne any
reference
to this?
AN, Available-N
NA, not available
C-AN, crop-available N
NFRV (Nitrogen Fertilizer replacement Value)
a
The NH3 losses after spreading in spring is presumed to be 20% of NH4-N content for solid manure, and 10% for slurry (Sweden). (In: Advices for fertilization 2010 (Riktlinjer för gödsling 2010),
Swedish Board of Agriculture, 2010.
7
Part 1. Evaluation of how manure-N efficiency is taken into account in the Action Programme (AP) or
other documents transposing the Nitrates Directive or measures of this directive of Member States.
Austria ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Belgium Flanders ..................................................................................................................................13
Belgium Wallonia ..................................................................................................................................17
Bulgaria .................................................................................................................................................19
Cyprus ...................................................................................................................................................23
Czech Republic .....................................................................................................................................27
Denmark................................................................................................................................................31
Estonia ..................................................................................................................................................43
Finland...................................................................................................................................................45
France ...................................................................................................................................................49
Germany................................................................................................................................................55
Greece...................................................................................................................................................61
Hungary.................................................................................................................................................65
Ireland ...................................................................................................................................................69
Italy........................................................................................................................................................73
Latvia.....................................................................................................................................................81
Lithuania................................................................................................................................................85
Luxemburg ............................................................................................................................................89
Malta......................................................................................................................................................91
Netherlands...........................................................................................................................................93
Poland ...................................................................................................................................................99
Portugal ...............................................................................................................................................103
Romania ..............................................................................................................................................107
Slovak Republic ..................................................................................................................................109
Slovenia...............................................................................................................................................113
Spain ...................................................................................................................................................119
Sweden ...............................................................................................................................................123
UK-England, Scotland and Wales.......................................................................................................131
UK-Northern Ireland ............................................................................................................................139
8
Austria
Action Programme
Action Programme 2008 concerning the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from
agricultural sources.
Overview (summary)
•
•
Applied to the whole of Austria, with no regional differences.
Came into force in 2008.
The AP for Austria does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency. The focus is on the reduction of
water pollution caused or induced by nitrates from agricultural sources and on the prevention of such
pollution. The AP, among other things, mainly concentrates on: the regulation of periods when
fertilizers may be applied; on-farm manure storage capacities and maximum N application rates.
There are no regional differences within Austria.
The use of N-containing fertilizer so as to meet crop requirements in both temporal and quantitative
terms is to be determined on the basis of guidelines or recommendations drawn up by competent
bodies such as the chambers of agriculture in particular or by using the fertilization guidelines
(Richtlinien zur sachgerechten Düngung, 2006 [in German]) issued by the Federal Minister for
Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management, or using other suitable documents and
aids.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
Manure-N efficiency is not referred to in the AP. However, tables are given to calculate the maximum
amount of N that may be applied to crops and to calculate the amount of N left in manures after
housing and storage losses.
Definitions used in AP:
• N-containing fertilizer: any substance containing one or more N compounds used on land to
enhance growth of vegetation and includes organic manure. (This definition is not explicitly
given, but can be deduced from the text).
• Liquid manure: the liquid fraction in the case of excreta separated into their liquid and solid
fractions (definition not given in the text).
• Slurry: excreta produced by livestock (other than poultry) while in a yard or building (including
any bedding, rainwater or washings mixed with it) that has a consistency that allows it to be
pumped or discharged by gravity (definition not given in the text).
• Stable manure: farmyard manure (FYM) (definition not given in the text).
• Compost: composted FYM (definition not given in the text).
• Application: includes application to the surface of the land, injection into the land or mixing
with the surface layers of the land but does not include the direct deposit of excreta on to land
by animals (definition not given in the text).
• Closed period: dates during which N fertilizers may not be spread on land (dates are given in
the AP, the term “closed period” is not mentioned).
• Fast acting N-containing fertilizers: commercial fertilizers, liquid manure, slurry and sewage
sludge.
• Nitrogen supply: amount of N applied after housing and storage losses.
• Maximum nitrogen supply: maximum amount of N that may be applied per hectare and year.
9
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no clear definition in the AP. The AP instead refers to ”the amount of nitrogen in slurry, liquid
manure and solid manure that is left after housing and storage losses” and to the “maximum amount
of N that may be applied per hectare and year”.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The AP contains tables on:
• Proportion of a livestock unit (LU) accounted for by each animal type based on the annual
average for animals kept.
• Quantities of FYM accumulated over 6 months per stall place in m3 for different dung removal
systems.
• Upper limits of N application for crops.
• Limit values for grazing land / fodder.
• Limit values for vegetables.
• Nitrogen load after housing and storage losses.
Records must be kept for the number and category of animals. Values for N content in the manure
after housing and storage losses for different animal categories are given in a table in the AP.
Maximum amounts of organic and mineral-N fertilizer applications may not be exceeded. No
information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake.
Sampling and analysis
No manure sampling and analysis is required. The AP states explicitly that “Nitrogen loads … are to
be calculated in accordance with the table in Annex 4.” Hence N application rates are estimated by
national default values.
Record Keeping
The AP regulates amounts and timing of N application. Record keeping is not required.
The AP regulates minimum storage capacities in order to ensure that the regulations on application
timing can be kept. The storage capacities may be checked on-farm by authorities.
Total nitrogen spread on a holding
An occupier must ensure that the total amount of N from manufactured fertilizer, and N available for
crop uptake from livestock manure in the growing season in which it is spread, applied to the following
crops, calculated in accordance with the information given in Annex 4 of the AP (“Nitrogen load after
stall and storage losses have been deducted”) does not exceed the limits given in Annex 3 of the AP.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
The term mineral-N is not explicitly used in the AP. The term N available for crop uptake from
livestock manure is not used within the AP.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Mineral-N is not measured. Default values for total N content in manures after housing and storage
losses are given.
10
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
A table in the AP gives values for the estimation of manure-N content after housing and storage
losses. The AP does not offer farmers the option of derogating from default values based on analysis.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are directly or indirectly covered in the AP. No explicit mention is made of mineral-N
and nor is there any consideration of how the organic-N in manures may become available or
reference to longer-term N availability.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not covered in the AP.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
There are limits on the application of N to crops, grassland and vegetables, and N limits are given per
hectare and year. These limits are related to the estimated N uptake by the crops. N application shall
not exceed N uptake by the crops.
Austria has the “Richtlinien zur sachgerechten Düngung” (fertilization guidelines). These give some
more background details on how the data given in the tables of the AP have been derived. They are
not based on N efficiency and do not contain information on the amount of crop-available N in
manures.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The Austrian AP gives details on periods during which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to
agricultural land. Periods differentiate between the application of N-containing commercial fertilizers,
liquid manure, slurry and sewage sludge (closed period: 15 November and 15 February) and the
application of stable manure, compost, dried sewage sludge and sewage sludge compost (closed
period: 30 November and 15 February). For vegetation with early N requirements the use of fertilizer
is permitted from 1 February.
The Austrian AP regulates:
•
•
•
•
Periods in which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to agricultural land.
Application of N-containing fertilizer on steeply sloped agricultural land.
Application of N-containing fertilizer on water-saturated, flooded, frozen or snow-covered soil.
Conditions for applying N-containing fertilizer on agricultural land in the vicinity of
watercourses.
Methods of manure application are not regulated in the AP.
4.4. Are there recommendations/obligations for improvement of manure management and
application to increase N efficiency?
No. You may only find some proposals in the “Richtlinien zur sachgerechten Düngung” (fertilization
guidelines). The Austrian fertilization guidelines show the principles of soil analysis and of
interpretation of the results of the soil analysis. An detailed chapter gives guidelines on how to set up
11
a fertilizer management plan. This chapter includes the assessment and inclusion of plant available
nutrients from organic manures and harvest residues. In general, increasing manure-N efficiency is
not a focus in Austria. In Austria, the focus of the AP lies more in the field of avoiding N pollution via
leaching and runoff.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
There is no additional information which should be recorded.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No efficiency rates are given. The AP distinguishes N consumption by different crops depending on
their yield and N content in the manure depending on animal category, performance and manure type.
12
Belgium Flanders
Action Programme
• The third Action Programme of the Flemish Region (2007-2010) for the implementation of the
Nitrates Directive 91/676/EEC.
•
Proposal action programme 2011-2014.
Overview (summary)
In the current AP, Flanders uses both a system of maximum total N application standards and a new
system based on efficient N. Different types of manure and different types of organic fertilizers, have
different N efficiency coefficients. Depending on the fraction of the total N that is plant-available, they
are categorized in four different groups of working coefficients (60, 30, 15 and 100%). Only the shortterm efficiency is accounted for. The guiding values for the composition of pig, cattle, poultry and
other livestock manure will be revised from 2011 onwards. Based on the manure composition
measurements the accredited laboratories will have to report directly to the manure bank. Slurries
have to be applied with reduced-NH3 application techniques.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1. Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
In the current AP, Flanders uses both a system of maximum total N application standards and a new
system based on efficient N. It is indicated that fertilization standards based on efficient N (efficient Nsystem) stimulate the farmer to apply organic fertilizers in the most efficient way; the N-utilization
standards.
1.2. Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
As the N-utilization standards represent the required plant-available N needed from fertilization, the N
efficiency (“working coefficient” in the AP of Flanders) of manure and other organic fertilizers has to
be taken into account to determine their plant-available N fraction upon fertilization. This is also
crucial for the farmer to determine how much mineral fertilizer he may use, in combination with certain
amounts of organic fertilizer, in order to comply with the N-utilization standards.
Different types of manure and different types of organic fertilizers, have different working coefficients.
Depending on the fraction of the total N that is plant-available, they are categorized in four different
groups of working coefficients (60, 30, 15 and 100% - see Table 3 below).
Based on this information, Flanders uses the NFRV.
13
Table 3. Working coefficients for different types of fertilizer (% of total N)
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
There is a table with values for composition of manure. The guiding values for the composition of pig,
cattle, poultry and other livestock manure will be revised from 2011 onwards. Based on the manure
composition measurements the accredited laboratories will have to report directly to the manure bank.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not indicated in the AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
For a correct implementation of the default excretion standards and nutrient balance systems
Flanders will apply the real emission coefficients for N from the stable and storage compartments,
based on the most recent insights and literature data. A difference is made here depending on the
animal type and stable type. The figures are not presented in the AP. Figures of gaseous N emissions
from housing and manure systems for cattle, pig, poultry and other types of livestock are presented by
VLM (In Dutch):
http://www.vlm.be/landtuinbouwers/mestbank/dierlijkeproductie/Stikstofverliezen/Pages/default.aspx.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
See Table 3 which gives information on the N efficiency coefficients.
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
This is not indicated in the AP. It is not clear if the 'working coefficients' cited in Table 3 represent the
mineral-N in manures or whether some allowance is made for mineralization of organic-N during the
season of application.
14
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
This is not indicated in the AP.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
Short term (within the growing season).
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
It is prohibited to apply slurry after harvest if no crop is to be sown in the same year. This is especially
relevant for cereals and vegetables. This measure will stimulate the use of catch crops and the use of
intermediate crops between the cultivation of vegetables.
Livestock farmers with insufficient land to dispose of their manures in an environmentally responsible
manner can meet their disposal obligations by treating this nutrient surplus with a view to export or
application outside the cultivated area.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
There are crop-specific N utilization standards in which the utilization of mineral-N fertilizer is taken to
be 100% and manure-N utilization is taken as the appropriate coefficients in Table 3 above.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
There is a general rule guiding manure application. It is prohibited to apply fertilizers and livestock
slurries on or in the soil from September 1st up to and including February 15th. It is prohibited to apply
litter-based manure (FYM) on or in the soil from November 15th up to January 15th. There are some
exceptions for heavy clay soils and fertilizer with a low N content and availability (e.g. effluents of
manure treatment and processing). It is prohibited to apply fertilizers where the land to be cultivated is
flooded, frozen, snow-covered or water-saturated.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
In addition to the above, Flemish regulations stipulate that all livestock manures and organic fertilizers
should be applied using reduced-NH3 emission techniques, i.e. incorporation of organic fertilizers with
low ammonium content and solid manure with low ammonium content within 24 hours, except for
grassland. Livestock slurries have to be applied by shallow injection or trailing hose techniques on
grassland. For other cultivated land only manure injection and trailing hose techniques are permitted.
For uncultivated arable land only manure injection or the spreading of and ploughing under of manure
in two consecutive tracks (whereby the manure is ploughed under within two hours of being spread on
the parcel in question) is permitted.
On cultivated slopes only shallow injection or manure injection is permitted for the application of
livestock manures. On uncultivated slopes only manure injection or immediate ploughing under in a
single passage is permitted for the application of livestock manures.
There is a covenant agreement between the livestock feed producers and the Flemish Minister for the
Environment in which requirements and commitments for low-nutrient feeding are laid down.
Monitoring of the composition of the feed will be performed. An additional tracking system for
regression feeds is being developed. For this purpose an agreement could be worked out with the
feed industry in which regression diets must fall within a predetermined maximum deviation of the
feed content from the label value.
15
The AP of Flanders include a system of measurement of the nitrate contents of the 0-90 cm soil layer
in autumn. There are threshold for maximum mineral-N content for different cropping systems. If
farmers exceed these thresholds there may be sanctions (from warning, loosing rights on derogation,
to a fine). This forces farmers to improve nutrient management.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
None reported
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
The efficiency coefficient for N excreted during grazing is 20%.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
16
Belgium Wallonia
Action Programme
MONITEUR BELGE — 07.03.2007 — BELGISCH STAATSBLAD. 15 FEVRIER 2007. — Arrêté du
Gouvernement wallon modifiant le Livre II du Code de l’Environnement. constituant le Code de l’Eau
en ce qui concerne la gestion durable de l’azote en agriculture
Overview (summary)
Manure-N efficiency is not included in the AP. Average N contents of different manure types for each
livestock category are provided in Annex IV of the AP, but there is no information on the proportion of
this N that is available for crop uptake. Information is provided on the closed periods for manure
application.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
There is no statement about manure N efficiency in the AP.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
No information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
A table with average N contents is available in the AP. The table contains values for different animal
categories and manure types. The table is not included here, because there was no English version
available. A table with average N contents is available in Annex IV of the AP. This table contains
values for different animal categories and manure types and is presented in the Annex of
supplementary information to this report.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not covered in the AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
The manure production for each livestock category is indicated in a table in the AP. It is indicated that
these figures are corrected for gaseous N emissions. However, the figures for these losses are not
presented.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
This is not covered in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not covered in the AP.
17
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
This is not covered in the AP.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
For slurries on arable land, the closed period is from 16 October to 15 February.
In the period 1 July-15 October, manures can only be applied on land on which winter crops or crops
with high N uptake (sown before 15 September and killed after 30 November) will be sown.
For slurries on grassland, the closed period is from 16 October to 31 January (during mild winter
conditions, application of 60 kg N per ha is allowed in the period 16-31 January).
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Measures in the AP include measures on time, application rate of manures and measures for
application of manure on sloping soils.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
No additional information is to be recorded.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
None of these are covered in the AP.
18
Bulgaria
Relevant document
RULES OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE aiming to protect the waters against pollution
caused by nitrates from agricultural sources. Second revised edition
Overview (summary)
The information in the CGAP of Bulgaria suggests that the N efficiency is not taken into account.
There is no information about the composition of manures in the CGAP. It is recommended that solid
livestock manure is stored for 6 to 8 months before it is applied. Liquid livestock manure should be
stored for at least 4 months before it is applied. Fresh livestock manure should not to be applied. This
long storage time is recommended to improve physical and agrochemical properties, by which
manure can be more easily applied. Organic fertilizers have to be ploughed into the soil within 2 days
after land application.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
No, the information in the Bulgarian CGAP suggests that the N efficiency is not taken into account.
However, these is one line in the AP where it is stated that if the quantity of active N applied exceeds
120 kg per ha, the fertilizer application have to be divided into two parts. It is not indicated what is
meant by “active”. This reference to 'active' N suggests that manure-N efficiency is accounted for.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
No information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake. This is not covered in the CGAP.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not covered in the CGAP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
This is not covered in the CGAP.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
This is not covered in the CGAP.
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
This is not covered in the CGAP.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
This is not covered in the CGAP.
19
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
This is not covered in the CGAP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
It is recommended that solid livestock manure is stored for 6 to 8 months before it is applied. Liquid
livestock manure should be stored for at least 4 months before it is applied. Fresh livestock manure is
not to be applied.
This long storage time is recommended so that manure processes of fermentation, mineralization,
decontamination and deodorisation can be completed. It is suggested that this improves physical and
agrochemical properties. Semi-decayed livestock manure has 55-65% moisture content, which is
suitable for spreading using manure-spreading trailers.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
This is not indicated, which suggests that the N efficiency of manure is not accounted for.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
•
•
•
•
•
Organic fertilizers have to be ploughed into the soil within 2 days after land application.
Closed periods.
Nitrogen-containing fertilizers and manures are not allowed to be applied between 1
November and 31 January. For uncultivated land and areas under permanent crops the
restriction is extended until 15 February.
Livestock manure is to be applied before field works (autumn and spring), during the
preparation for sowing or planting of the crops.
To avoid the risk of excess of nitrates in the plants and in the soil in all crops the quantity of N
compounds applied with organic and mineral fertilizers shall not exceed 170 kg N per ha on
annual basis. Where the quantity of active N applied exceeds 120 kg per ha, the fertilization
allowance shall be divided into two parts: up to 2/3 shall be applied before sowing/planting
with the remaining quantity applied for nutrition purposes. [Will be revised in the new AP]
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
The CGAP include several general measures, such as closed periods and application method (see
4.3) and other measures, including balanced N fertilization. The basis for balanced fertilization is that
recommendations for fertilization shall be made on the basis of the balance between the quantity of N
required for the development of the crops and the quantity of N that may be supplied to the crops from
the soil and through fertilization taking into account:
• the quantity of N contained in the soil before sowing/planting;
• the quantity of N supplied from mineralization of the organic matter;
• the N compounds applied into the soil with organic fertilizers;
• the N compounds applied into the soil with mineral fertilizers;
• the quantity of N compounds applied into the soil with the irrigation waters.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
This is not covered in the CGAP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
20
This is not covered in the CGAP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
This is not covered in the CGAP.
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
See 4.1: it is recommended that solid livestock manure is stored for 6 to 8 months before it is applied.
Fresh livestock manure should not be applied.
21
Cyprus
Action Programme
THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL LAWS (2002 – 2008)
Overview (summary)
The AP does not explicitly refer to manure N. The form of N and the timing of application should be
taken into account when applying manure and slurry, but these considerations relate more to NVZs
and water pollution than taking into account the manure-available N for crop requirements. No
information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake. Instead, producers of livestock wastes and sewage sludge
should proceed with chemical analyses, in accordance with the terms of the waste discharge
authorization.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Manure-N is not explicitly covered in the AP, although ‘additional nitrogen inputs through additives
other than through fertilizers’ should be considered when applying fertilizers. Although no clear
definitions are given in the APs, fertilizers, as covered in the AP, are thought to include only
manufactured fertilizers, and not manure. Manure is covered under the term ‘livestock wastes’.
Sludge obtained from the processing of municipal wastewaters is classified as organic waste that can
be used for agricultural purposes on condition that the Water Pollution Control Regulations have been
observed.
No information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
No clear definition is given.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
•
•
•
•
•
Chemical analyses of soil samples for total N content (nitrates) are conducted every three
years.
There are guidelines for appropriate planning prior to slurry application, and these include:
Calculation of the cultivatable land area, quantity of waste to be applied and its content in N;
the quantity of pure N should not exceed crop needs, the general rule being 17 kg of total
N/1000 m2/year.
Producers of livestock wastes and sewage sludge should proceed with chemical analyses, in
accordance with the terms of the waste discharge authorization, where applicable.
There is available official data on the total N content of livestock manure which should be
considered as guidelines (separate to the AP).
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
‘Serious consideration should be given to the nitrogen form’ although the different forms are not
explicitly stated.
23
It is recommended to use ‘nitrogen forms that have limited mobility in the ground or slow-release
fertilizers, and topsoil dressing should employ fertilizers with quick nitrogen uptake’. However, no
reference is made to manure N.
The N requirements for different crops are supplied and when applying fertilizer, consideration must
be given to other forms of N inputs.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not covered in the AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Not covered in the AP.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are covered in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
When applying liquid livestock wastes, measures are taken to ensure that:
• They can be applied to the ground for dry-farming crops, such as cereals, after harvesting
and before seeding and be immediately incorporated into the soil, so as to reduce nuisance
and NH3 emissions.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
Not covered in the AP.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Serious consideration should be given to the N form and application timing - it should be applied to
the crop only when needed.
Application is determined regarding risks to NVZs - the application of livestock wastes and sludge
obtained from municipal wastewater treatment plants to the vulnerable zones should be carried out in
accordance with an integrated management programme. The AP does not explain what this means
nor did we find any other reference to this for Cyprus through an internet search. The AP was
developed from a ‘Water Framework Directive’ perspective, and the Directive calls for an integrated
approach to protect waters. Hence this will be where the terminology came from.
When applying liquid livestock wastes, application is prohibited on steeply sloping ground, during
intense rainfall periods or when soils are saturated with water.
When applying solid livestock wastes, the following measures are taken:
• When used for cereals, they can be incorporated immediately after harvest or at least three
months prior to seeding, whereas digested wastes can be incorporated even shortly prior to
seeding.
• For tree plantations, the use of digested waste in the winter period is recommended.
24
•
•
•
For vegetables, digested wastes can be applied shortly before planting or undigested wastes
when there is a period of at least three months before planting with immediate incorporation in
the ground and then irrigation, if there is not sufficient moisture in the soil.
They can be applied either by means of a manure spreader or any practical means so long as
it is uniformly spread and incorporated into the soil.
Incorporating manure as soon after it is spread as possible reduces nutrient losses to the
atmosphere (losses as NH3).
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
No.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Records should be kept recording the ‘nitrogenous substances’ that have been used.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
No allowance made.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
These are not covered in the AP.
25
Czech Republic
Action programme
GOVERNMENT ORDER NO 108/2008 of 4.4.2008, amending Government Order No 103/2003 Coll.
on specification of vulnerable zones and on the use and storage of fertilizers and livestock manure,
crop rotation and implementation of erosion-control measures in these zones, as amended by
Government Order No 219/2007 Coll.
Overview (summary)
There is no clear definition of manure-N efficiency in the AP, but from the information provided it can
be concluded that the Czech Republic uses the NFRV. 40% of the N in FYM is considered to be
available for crop uptake and 60% of the N in slurry. A table with average manure composition is
included in a decree. The AP includes N fertilizer limits depending of crops, and soil conditions
(vulnerability for N leaching).
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
In the AP calculation of the N application limit, manure efficiency factors are used. However, there is
no clear definition of manure-N efficiency.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
No. It is indicated that when evaluating the fertilization limit for fertilizers containing N that is not
rapidly available (“slowly liberated nitrogen”), 40% of the N in FYM and 60% of the N in slurry has to
be accounted for. This suggests that Czech Republic uses the NFRV. However, no information is
given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of manure-N
available for crop uptake.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
For determination of the N supply to soil in livestock manure data established by special analysis or
data from Annex 2 to Order No 274/1998 Coll. are used (See Table 4 below).
27
Table 4. Average nutrient load on soils from livestock manure
Livestock manure
Average dry matter
content (%)
Nitrogen
(N)
Phosphate
Potash
(P2O5)
(K2O)
1)
-1
kg.t
Cattle manure
23.0
5.0
3.1
7.1
Cattle manure (from deep bedding)
23.0
6.0
3.1
10.7
Pig manure
23.0
6.2
5.7
5.1
Pig manure (from deep bedding)
23.0
7.4
5.7
7.1
Horse manure
29.0
5.2
3.2
7.3
Sheep droppings, goat droppings
28.0
7.6
3.7
10.4
Liquid cattle manure
2.4
2.5
0.2
5.3
Liquid pig manure
2.0
2.8
0.5
2.5
Cattle slurry
7.8
3.2
1.5
4.8
Pig slurry
6.8
5.0
3.0
2.3
Sheep slurry, goat slurry
24.0
6.0
2.1
5.3
Poultry slurry
11.8
9.6
6.4
3.8
Fresh poultry droppings
23.0
18.0
11.9
7.1
Old poultry droppings (N loss 35%)
33.0
16.8
17.1
10.2
2)
Dry poultry droppings (N loss 50%)
50.0
19.2
24.3
14.9
3)
Dry poultry droppings (N loss 50%)
73.0
28.0
35.5
21.8
Poultry litter (N loss 50%)
50.0
19.2
16.0
11.3
-1
4)
Cattle faeces and urine (average annual production 14.0 t.DJ )
3.3
2.2
7.1
-1
Sheep and goat faeces and urine (average annual production 9.1 t.DJ )
4.9
2.6
6.6
-1
Horse faeces and urine (average annual production 8.61 t.DJ )
2.8
2.3
3.5
1)
The nutrient load on soils from livestock manures is recorded after subtracting losses from livestock housing, during the
storage of manures and the grazing or keeping of livestock on agricultural land. If an analysis of the nutrient content is
available, the values indicated in the table shall not be used.
2)
With passive drying.
3)
With active drying.
4)
-1
For cattle up to two years of age the value of 2.6 kg N. t for faeces and urine shall be used.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
There is no information about measurements of mineral N in the AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Losses of N in housing and manure storage are estimated at 35% for solid manure systems, 15% for
slurry, and 50% for outdoor poultry rearing or with production of droppings in laying hen battery
farming, depending on the technology used.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
In the estimation of manure efficiency, only total N is considered. This means that the N efficiency of
the mineral fraction and the organic fraction are not estimated separately.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
In the estimation of manure efficiency, only total N is considered. This means that the N efficiency of
the mineral fraction and the organic fraction are not estimated separately.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
It is clearly indicated in the AP that only the NFRV during the first year has to be accounted for.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
Other measures of the Nitrates Directive are implemented, such as maximum manure application
rate, time of manure application taking into account soil conditions, crop, and slope. The objective of
28
these limits is to reduce N leaching and runoff, although an indirect effect will be to increase manureN efficiency.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
There are fertilizer limits. The amount of efficient manure N is calculated by multiplying total N with the
manure N efficiency. There are two values for manure-N efficiency in the AP: 40% for solid manures
and 60% for liquid manures.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Periods in which it is prohibited to use nitrogenous fertilizing substances in vulnerable zones on
agricultural land, are set out in Table 5 below (Table 1 in Annex 2 in the AP). The closed periods are
dependent of crop, climatic region, and type of fertilizer (artificial or organic).
Table 5. Period of prohibition of the use of nitrogenous fertilizing substances on agricultural
land in the Czech Republic
Agricultural ground where crops are grown or which isPeriod of prohibition of the use of fertilizers
prepared for establishing the growth of crop
Crop
Climatic region
Fertilizers containing instantly
Mineral nitrogenous
liberated nitrogen (including
fertilizers
manures)
Crops on arable land (except
0-5
15.11. - 31.1.
1.11. - 31.1.
permanent grass and mixed
6-9
5.11. - 28.2.
15.10. - 15.2.
clover and grass),
Growth of grass (mixed clover
0-5
15.11. - 31.1.
1.10. - 28.2.
and grass) on arable land,
6-9
5.11. - 28.2.
15.9. - 15.3.
permanent grass
Application of fertilizers containing slowly liberated nitrogen ** to arable land is prohibited in the period between 1
June and 31 July (This provision does not apply to subsequent growing of winter crops and intermediate crops) and
in the period between 1 December and 31 January.
Annotations:
* 1st digit of the code of the soil typological unit.
** applies to processed sludge
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
There are N fertilizer limits depending of crops, and soil (vulnerability for N leaching). These may also
have an indirect impact on manure-N efficiency by encouraging better utilization of the N in manures
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Not indicated in the AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
Not indicated in the AP.
29
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production.
No information presented in the AP.
30
Denmark
Background to the AP
The current AP for the Aquatic Environment (APIII) was introduced in 2004 and came into full effect in
2007. APIII continues until 2015, even though a few amendments were introduced in 2008, 2009 and
2010, taking into account the Green Growth Strategy adopted by Denmark.
In Denmark the measures introduced in API to APIII are applicable throughout the country. However,
more restrictive regulations may apply locally if these are deemed necessary to protect water supplies
or natural aquatic ecosystems.
The current regulation of nitrogen
The current Danish regulations have the following features:
• Mandatory plant-available N quotas are stipulated for all crops. These N quotas vary
according to soil type and whether they are irrigated (for sandy soils only). In some cases, the
quotas also depend on the preceding crop (particularly if it is grass).
• Every farmer is obliged to calculate a farm-scale plant-available N quota, based on their
cropping plans (crop type, area planted) and the mandatory crop N quota. If the farm does not
produce or import animal manure, this quota represents the amount of fertilizer N that may be
used on the farm. The farmer is free to choose how to partition this N between the crops.
• For livestock farms, the regulations give normative values for the amount of N in manure
produced (ex storage) per individual, for each type of animal. These values vary according to
the type of animal housing and the type of manure stored. Equations are provided to allow for
the deviations in production parameters (e.g. milk production). Farmers may apply to use
lower values, but must be able to provide adequate documentation.
• Mandatory NFRVs are stipulated for all manures and manure mixtures.
• For livestock farms, or arable farms that import livestock manure, the N quota can be freely
partitioned between N fertilizer and animal manure. The extent to which the animal manure
consumes quota is calculated by dividing the normative N produced or imported by the
relevant NFRV. If the normative manure N production exceeds the quota (minus any fertilizerN applied), the excess must be exported to a farm that has unused quota.
• The manure N accounts must be submitted on annual basis and imports/exports of manure
must be undertaken on the basis of legal agreements between the farmers.
As noted earlier, the N quota was set at 10% below the economic optimum in APII. However,
subsequent regulation has established a limit on the total national N quota. If this is exceeded, the
individual crop N quotas are reduced pro rata. As a result, the N quota for crops represents a
reduction of approximately 15% of the economic optimum.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
Definitions used in the AP are given in Table 6 below:
31
Table 6. Terms used to describe the efficiency with which manure-N may be used by crops
Term
Crop nitrogen quota
Nominal manure
nitrogen production
Definition
The amount of plant-available N that
may be applied to one hectare of a
given crop
The amount of plant-available N that
may be applied on the farm
The N production ex storage (kg
animal-1 yr-1, N)
NFRV
Nitrogen fertilizer replacement value
Liquid manure
Separated liquid, slurry, and manure
effluent and any mixture of solid
manure with separated liquid, slurry
and manure effluent as well as
processed livestock manure with a
dry matter content of < 12% and N
contents of more than 0.3 kg/tonne
Faeces and litter and fractions from
processing plants with a dry matter
content of 12% or more.
-1
Equivalent to 100 kg yr , manure N
ex storage
Farm nitrogen quota
Solid manure
Livestock unit
Description
The plant-available N is equated to the amount
of fertilizer-N
Farm nitrogen quota =
∑(area of ith crop x N quota of ith crop)
The national average amount of N produced
by given category of animal, housed in a given
type of animal housing and where the manure
is stored in a given form (e.g. slurry)
The amount of N fertilizer that can be replaced
by manure-N (kg kg-1)
Note that this definition differs from the one
used by Eurostat.
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
Table 7. Mandatory NFRVs for different manure types
Manure type
Pig slurry
Cattle slurry
Mink slurry
Poultry slurry
Liquid fraction (partially separated manure)
Solid fraction (partially separated manure)
Deep litter
Other manure
NFRV
[%]
75
70
70
70
65
65
45
65
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
This is not relevant for this AP since farmers are obliged to use the normative values stated in the
nutrient management legislation.
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The normative N production ex-storage is calculated annually using N flow methodology as described
in Poulsen et al. (2001). Briefly, the N excretion of a wide range of livestock categories (e.g. finishing
pigs) are calculated individually, based on an animal N balance i.e. feed N consumed minus N in
animal products. Equations are provided to allow the N excretion to be adjusted for relevant
production parameters (e.g. milk production, slaughtering weight). For each livestock category, the
gaseous emissions from the prevalent animal housing x manure type combinations are calculated.
Subtraction of the gaseous emissions enables calculation of manure N production ex storage.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
This is not reported in this AP.
32
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not relevant for this AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
When calculating the normative N production for each livestock category, the gaseous emissions from
the prevalent animal housing x manure type combinations are calculated, using standard emission
factors (Hansen et al, 2008). The NH3 emission factors used in Denmark are listed in the Annex to
this report.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
These are not covered in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
Regulations regarding animal housing and manure storage, which must be designed to prevent runoff
to the soil (e.g. must be constructed of appropriate materials and if appropriate, equipped with a
means to intercept any runoff and direct it to an appropriate storage facility, e.g. slurry tank), produce
improved manure-N efficiency as a by-product.
Regulations to reduce NH3 emissions produced improved manure-N efficiency as a by-product. These
measures include:
• Localised requirement to use low-emission housing, due to NH3 deposition to Natura 2000
areas (Habitat Directive).
• The requirement to cover slurry storage with either a surface layer (e.g. natural crust,
chopped straw) or synthetic cover (e.g. tent, concrete lid).
• The requirement to cover solid manure storage with an impervious material (unless manure is
added on a daily basis).
• The requirement to incorporate all manure applied to bare soil within six hours of application.
• The banning of the broadcast application of liquid manures.
• Localised requirement to use low-emission application measures such as injection.
Livestock densities are restricted to 1.4 LU ha-1 for pigs, poultry and fur animals, 1.7 LU ha-1 for
ruminants and 2.3 LU ha-1 for ruminant livestock farms that can comply apply for the derogation under
the Nitrates Directive.
Finally, the limitation of the N quota to significantly below the economic optimum means that farmers
have a strong incentive to prevent N losses from manure throughout the whole manure management
system.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
See Question 4.1.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The following restrictions apply:
• Liquid manure shall not be applied to the soil from harvest to February 1. However, from
harvest to October 1 liquid manure can be applied to already established wintering grass land
33
•
•
•
•
•
and fields, which will be planted with winter rape in the winter to come. Also exempted from
this provision is application from harvest until 15 October on areas of seed grass for which a
contract on delivery of seeds in the coming season has been entered into with a seedgrowing company.
Solid manure shall only be applied from harvest till October 20 on fields that are subsequently
planted with winter crops.
Silage effluent shall not be applied to the soil from harvest until November 1, unless it is
applied to areas covered with vegetation or areas subsequently planted with winter crops.
From September 1 to March 1, liquid manure may not be applied to perennial crops, which
are not harvested every year.
Liquid manure and solid manure applied to areas without vegetation shall be incorporated into
the soil without delay, and within 6 hours after application. If for unforeseeable reasons this
cannot be done, the liquid and/or solid manure shall be worked into the soil as soon as
possible.
Livestock manure, silage effluent and wastewater shall not be applied in such a way and on
such areas that there is a risk that manure, silage effluent or wastewater may run into lakes or
watercourses, including via drains and in the event of thaw or heavy rain.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
All commercial livestock enterprises are required to apply for a permit from the environmental
authorities when they significantly change their operations. In order to obtain a permit, the enterprises
will be required to reduce further the NH3 emission, even if the number of livestock increase. As part
of the environmental assessment, the environmental authorities construct a current and future N
budget for the enterprise. It is used to estimate NH3 emission and NO3 leaching, and to ensure that
these are consistent with one another. There is no reference to improving N efficiency. The limitation
of the N quota to a level that is below the economic optimum ensures that farmers have a strong
incentive to improve N use efficiency. This budget includes all inputs, outputs and losses of N. This
process has been adopted to enable the environmental authorities to monitor compliance with EU
Directives related to NH3 emission and nitrate leaching.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
There is no further information to be recorded.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
Normally no account is taken of excreta voided to pastures in the normative manure N production for
N excretion during grazing. However, N excretion to extensive grazing systems needs to be
accounted for (e.g. for management of semi-natural ecosystems).
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
The NFRVs are dependent solely on the type of manure. In the early APs, the NFRVs solely reflected
the response to manure-N in the first season after application. The NFRVs also reflected the
widespread use of broadcast spreading of manures and the absence of any requirement for
incorporation. Since 2002, the NFRVs have included an estimate of 10 years residual fertilizing effect
of the manures. This is not taken into account directly. The residual fertilizer effect is incorporated in
34
the NFRVs. As a consequence, the NFRVs have progressively increased with time. Further
information is given in the Annex of this report, together with the references cited.
35
Table 8. Total fertilizer effect of N in slurry with typical application methods based on an estimated first-year effect on cereal crops (column A),
estimated effect of mineralized N for crops with a long growing season (maize, grass, beets) (column B), and an accumulated residual effect
(column C). N losses via NH3 emissions and denitrification are also presented.
Fertilizer type and application method
Ammonia
1)
loss
Denitrification
loss 2)
% of total N in animal
manure
First year
Additional first year effect
Accumulated residual
fertilizer effect
of a long growing season
effect after 10 years
A
B
C
Equivalent N in mineral fertilizer as % of total N
Pig slurry
Incorporation in spring, < 6 h
4
5
73
Direct Injection, bare soil
1
5
75
Disc harrow, incorporation in spring, < 6h
7
3
70
Trailing hose application to crop
12
3
65
Direct injection to crop
7
5
70
Cattle slurry
Incorporation in spring, < 6 h
5
5
60
Direct Injection, bare soil
2
5
65
Disc harrow, incorporation in spring, < 6h
10
3
50
Trailing hose application to crop
16
3
40
Direct injection to crop
9
5
45
Injection in grass (spring-summer)
16
5
50
Trailing hose application to grass (spring22
3
40
summer)
1) Ammonia loss based on emission factors calculated by Hansen et al. (2008)
2) Denitrification loss relative to the use of mineral fertilizer calculated with the SIMDEN model (Vinther, 2008)
36
2
2
2
2
2
7
7
7
7
7
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
13
13
14
12
13
13
12
Total fertilizer
effect
A+C
80
82
77
72
77
A+B+C
76
81
67
55
61
66
55
Table 9. Total fertilizer effect of N in solid and liquid manure with typical application methods based on estimated first-year effect on cereal crops
(column A), estimated effects of mineralized N for crops with a long growing season (maize, grass and beets) (column B0, and accumulated
residual effects (column C). N losses through NH3 emissions and denitrification are also presented.
Fertilizer type and application method
Ammonia
1)
loss
Denitrification
loss 2)
% of total N in animal
manure
First year
Additional first year effect
fertilizer effect
of a long growing season
A
B
Equivalent N in mineral fertilizer as % of total N
Pig slurry
Solid manure incorporated in spring, < 6 h
10
5
45
Solid manure incorporated in autumn before a
8
5
15
winter crop, < 6 h
Solid manure incorporated by disc harrow, < 6 h
10
3
45
Solid manure to crop
16
3
30
Liquid manure via trailing hoses to crop
12
0
82
Cattle slurry
Solid manure incorporated in spring, < 6 h
10
5
35
Solid manure incorporated in autumn before a
8
5
15
winter crop, < 6 h
Solid manure incorporated by disc harrow, < 6 h
10
3
35
Solid manure to crop
16
3
15
Liquid manure via trailing hoses to crop
12
0
82
1) Ammonia loss based on emission factors calculated by Hansen et al. (2008)
2) Denitrification loss relative to the use of mineral fertilizer calculated with the SIMDEN model (Vinther, 2008)
37
Accumulated residual
effect after 10 years
C
Total fertilizer
effect
A+C
58
27
4
2
13
12
4
4
0
13
12
2
5
2
20
18
58
42
84
A+B+C
60
35
5
5
0
20
18
2
60
38
84
Table 10. Total fertilizer effect of N in deep litter from cattle and pigs with typical application methods based on estimated first-year effects for
cereal crops (column AQ), estimated effect of mineralized N for crops with a long growing season (maize, grass and beets) (column B), and
accumulated residual effect (column C) with reference to the principles described in section xx of the AP. N losses via NH3 emissions and
denitrification are also presented.
Fertilizer type and application method
Ammonia
1)
loss
Denitrification
loss 2)
% of total N in animal
manure
10
5
10
5
16
3
8
5
First year
Additional first year effect
fertilizer effect
of a long growing season
A
B
Equivalent N in mineral fertilizer as % of total N
Deep litter, incorporated in spring, fresh
35
Deep litter, incorporated in spring, stored
30
Deep litter onto growing crop
20
Deep litter, incorporaed in autumn before
20
winter crop, < 6h
1) Ammonia loss based on emission factors calculated by Hansen et al. (2008)
2) Denitrification loss relative to the use of mineral fertilizer calculated with the SIMDEN model (Vinther, 2008)
5
5
5
2
Accumulated residual
effect after 10 years
C
18
20
18
18
Total fertilizer
effect
A+B+C
58
55
43
40
Note. The values in tables 8-10 cannot be used as a N budget for the fate of manure N. Fertilizer effects of manures are expressed relative to the utilization of
mineral N. There may also be gaseous N losses from mineral N fertilizers which are not accounted for here.
38
Estonia
Background
The AP of Estonia is a document that only describes the NVZ, its agriculture and the needs for the 4
year period. Hence it does not implement the Directive by means of inclusion of measures from
Annex II and III of the Directive. Therefore references to the AP are not relevant and in this report we
refer only to the CGAP.
Estonia implements the Nitrate Directive by means of:
• Water Act – which covers all measures of Annex II and III.
• Nitrate Vulnerable Zones- act by which the NVZ area has been designated.
• Guidelines “Pandivere and Adavere-Põltsama Nitrate Vulnerable Zone” which is an action
programme that covers aims of the programme but not the measures of the Directive.
• The CGAP groups measures which are obligatory for the NVZ and voluntary for the whole
country.
The words ‘nitrogen efficiency’ are not explicitly used in the AP, but instead the approximate direct
effect (the first year effect) and after-effect (in the following year) of manure N, P and K in % of total
nutrients applied to the crop are presented. These figures are based on field trials carried out with
mineral and organic fertilizers on different soil conditions in Estonia (Kärblane, 1996). The direct effect
of N is set to 50% for liquid manure with no expected after-effect the following years. For solid
manure, the direct N effect is set to 25% with an additional effect of 10% for the following year. In the
AP, there are requirements for reduced-emission application techniques for solid and liquid manure in
storage and after spreading. The manure storage capacity should enable the storage of solid and
liquid manure excreted by the animals for a period of at least eight months on farms with more than
10 livestock units. In NVZs, vessels and tanks for liquid as well as solid manure must be covered.
After the manure is spread (both solid and liquid manure) it must be incorporated into soil as quickly
as possible. It is prohibited to spread manures from 1 December to 31 of March and in any other
period when the ground is covered with snow or is frozen. There is special legalisation in water
protection areas.
Review
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
The AP of Estonia does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency but presents the approximate direct
and after-effect of manure N, P and K in %, given in Table 3, Annex 4 in the CGAP. The direct effect
is the crop utilization in the year of application. The after-effect is the nutrient utilisation in the
following year. The remaining nutrients, not utilized by plants, are assumed to be immobilized in soil
or lost through or leaching or gaseous emissions.
1.2. Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it
possible to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP (so it must be
clear if Estonia defines manure-N efficiency in the AP or our consortium identifies manure-N
efficiency, based on the way it is used in the AP).
The CGAP does not use the word manure-N efficiency but instead the phrase ‘direct and after-effect
of manure N, P and K’ is used which seems to have about the same meaning.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
This is not covered in the AP.
39
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Not defined; presumed to be known.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not covered in the AP.
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Amounts of manure-N production (excretion) are not given in the CGAP. Measures to reduce losses
in storage are given but no figures on gaseous losses from stable and storage related to handling
practices.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
The CGAP gives the approximate direct and after-effect of N, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in
percent of total content in organic manures (both solid and liquid), (Table 3 from Annex 4), see below.
The effects are related to the actual manure/fertilizer N uptake and not total N uptake of crop as the N
directly taken up by plants is estimated to originate by 50% from manure/fertilizer and 50% from soil-N
for liquid manure.
40
Table 11. Approximate after-effect of manure (Pöllumajandus ministeerium, 2008)
Type of manure
Solid
Solid
Solid
Liquid
Liquid
Year
direct effect
after-effect of the first year
after-effect of the second year
direct effect
after-effect of the first year
N%
P%
25
10
5
50
0
K%
40
20
10
40
20
50
15
0
50
20
The N requirement of plants is adjusted to take account of:
• crop type;
• estimated yield;
• different fertilizer consumption rates (5 levels) and
• N fertilizer consumption coefficient of soil.
No definition is given for ‘N fertilizer consumption coefficient of soil’. Below (Table 12) is an example
for Rye. These tables are also given for requirements for P and K for various crops. If spot-fertilization
is used (understood as ‘injection of slurry’ or ‘drilling of fertilizer’), the fertilizer rate could be reduced
by 15-20%.
An agricultural producer shall keep a field record in which information is entered concerning the area
of land under cultivation, soil properties, yield, types and volumes of fertilizers and times of
fertilization. The values in Table 12 are default values, which should be adapted to prevailing
conditions e.g. soil and weather.
Table 12. Nitrogen requirements for various crops depending on fertilizer consumption rate of
soil and estimated yield (Pöllumajandus ministeerium, 2008)
Crop
Rye
Estimated
yield t/ha
3
3.5
4
4.5
5
5.5
Optimum N
required
kg/ha
80
90
100
110
120
130
Fertilizer consumption rate
High
Average
Low
Very low
N fertilizer consumption coefficient of soil, kg
1.1
1
0.9
0.8
0.7
Required N quantity kg/ha
88
80
72
64
56
99
90
81
72
63
110
100
90
80
70
121
110
99
88
*
*
120
108
96
*
*
130
117
104
*
Very high
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
See the after-effect in Question 3.1.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
For solid manure two years, and for liquid manure one year.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated?
All livestock facilities where livestock of more than ten livestock units are kept are required to have a
manure storage facility or a manure and liquid manure storage facility, depending on the type of
manure. The manure storage capacity should enable the storage of solid and liquid manure excreted
by the animals for a period of at least eight months on farms with more than 10 livestock units.
For spreading, a mandatory requirement is that manure (both solid and liquid manure) must be taken
into the soil as quickly as possible (understood as ‘incorporated’). It is also recommended to use spotfertilization (understood as ‘injection of slurry’ or ‘drilling of fertilizer’).
41
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
It is permitted to spread an average of up to 170 kg of N with manure per year per hectare of land
under cultivation. Amounts of mineral N exceeding 100 kg per hectare need to be spread as two or
more applications.
The N standard should be reduced:
• in spot fertilization by 15–20%;
• if the intermediate crop is rapeseed, turnip rapeseed – 10 kg/ha, pea – 15 kg/ha, clover –
20 kg/ha, and alfalfa – 40 kg/ha;
• if the intermediate crop has received organic fertilizers, the after-effect of the organic
fertilizers shall be taken into account and the N standard must be reduced.
The after-effect of mineral N fertilizers depends on the weather and is minimal; however, when
determining fertilizer portions, the after-effect of manure must definitely be taken into account (Table
3, Annex 4).
See 3.1.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
In the AP it is stated that “The optimum time for spreading solid manure is in autumn, in case of winter
cereals simultaneously with ploughing of the fallow, in any other cases simultaneously with autumn
ploughing. In autumn manure should be spread as late as possible, but before the soil is still frozen
and directly before ploughing.” Liquid manure should be spread in spring before ploughing or onto
cereals, which have already emerged, and onto herbaceous grasses, which have already started their
growth.
In the case of top dressing of the growing field crops, a special spreader with a trailing hose or spotfertilization equipment should be used.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
For spreading, a mandatory requirement is that manure (both solid and liquid manure) must be taken
into the soil as quickly as possible (understood as ‘incorporated’). It is also recommended to use spotfertilization (understood as ‘injection of slurry’ or ‘drilling of fertilizer’).
Amounts of mineral-N exceeding 100 kg per hectare shall be spread in at least two applications.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
In order to apply the environmental management system, an organisation has to determine its
environmental policy, plan its environmental activities, guarantee the implementation and functioning
of the system and the control and inspection thereof by the management.
One of the means of planning is the preparation of an environmental action programme, which
contains the following elements according to the activities of the organisation:
•
•
•
•
•
•
a plan for the organisation of environmentally hazardous facilities;
a fertilization plan;
a liquid manure spreading plan;
a plant succession plan;
a water protection scheme;
an action plan in the case of possible environmental pollution.
42
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
The manure quantity produced per year is reduced by the grazing period. E.g. if the grazing period
lasts for 3 months, the quantity will be reduced by 25%, etc., i.e. the manure collected in the storage
facility will be taken into consideration.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
This is not covered in the CGAP.
6.2. Soil type
This is not covered in the AP.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
See Question 3.1.
6.4. Animal feed
This is not covered in the AP.
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production)
This is not covered in the AP.
43
Finland
Action Programme
• No. 931/2000 Issued in Helsinki, November 9, 2000. Government Decree on the Restriction
of Discharge of Nitrates From Agriculture into Waters
• Relevant to section 11 of the Environmental Protection Act (86/2000) of February 4, 2000.
Overview
The AP of Finland does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency. The AP does not include any
definitions of how manure-N efficiency is determined. The scale of use and application of N fertilizers
is based on average crop yield, cultivation zone and crop rotation with the aim of retaining a balanced
nutrient level in the soil. No information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of
manures or of the amount of manure-N available for crop uptake. Farmers must keep a record of the
amount of N fertilizers used on their fields and of crop yields. There are no estimates of short-term
and long-term N availability in the AP. There are lower maximum N limits for certain crops in the
northern part of Finland.
Review
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
The AP of Finland does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency. The AP does not include any
definitions of how manure-N efficiency is determined.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
The AP of Finland does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency.
Animal manure may be applied on a field as fertilizer equivalent to up to 170 kg/ha/year of N, while
taking into consideration what is laid down below:
• The scale of use and application of N fertilizers is based on average crop yield, cultivation
zone and crop rotation with the aim of retaining a balanced nutrient level in the soil. Farms
may use the following maximum amounts of N on fields as fertilizer, contained in both mineral
fertilizer and animal manure and organic fertilizers:
o Winter cereals, up to 200 kg of N/ha/year, of which 30 kg of N/ha may be applied in
the autumn and 170 kg of N/ha in the spring, or if slowly-dissolving N is used, up to
40 kg of N/ha in the autumn and 160 kg of N/ha in the spring.
o Potatoes 130 kg of N/ha/year.
o Grassland and pasture, silage and horticultural plants 250 kg of N/ha/year.
o Spring cereals, sugarbeet, oilseed crops and other crops up to 170 kg of N/ha/year.
• For very fine sand and coarser mineral soils, 10 kg/ha/year is deducted from the N amounts
laid down in paragraph 2 above.
• The total amounts of N presented in paragraph 2 above are reduced by 40 kg/ha in the case
of cultivation of cereals or sugarbeet on peat soil, and by 20 kg/ha in the operating areas
covered by Lapland, Northern Ostrobothnia and Kainuu Regional Environment Centres. For
grasslands, the reduction is 10/ha on peat soil throughout the country.
• If the amount of permissible N fertilizer exceeds 170/kg/year, this amount must be split into at
least two doses with at least two weeks between applications.
No information is given in the AP on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of
manure-N available for crop uptake.
45
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The AP states that manure-N analysis must be conducted at five-year intervals after the analysis that
had to be made in 1998 at the latest. Farmers must keep a record of the amount of N fertilizers used
on their fields and of crop yields.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
The AP does not include any definition or description of mineral-N, easily available N, quick dissolving
N or of a similar kind.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
The AP states that manure-N analysis must be conducted at five-year intervals after the analysis that
had to be made in 1998 at the latest. Farmers must keep a record of the amount of N fertilizers used
on their fields and of crop yields.
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
The AP has no information on or estimates of amounts of N excreted by livestock. The AP has no
information on or estimates of gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems. The
AP is focused on regulations about how to store and transport manure to avoid leakage and runoff;
‘Manure storages and manure gutters must be watertight. The structures and equipment used must
be such that no leakage occurs when the manure storage is emptied and the manure is transferred.
The size of storage must follow the principles set out in Annex 2.’
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
Availability of mineral-N is not a term used. The AP states that animal manure may be applied on a
field as fertilizer equivalent to up to 170 kg/ha/year of N. The scale of use and application of N
fertilizers shall be based on average crop yield, cultivation zone and crop rotation with the aim of
retaining a balanced nutrient level in the soil. The AP also has recommendations of maximum
amounts of N on fields as fertilizer, contained in both mineral fertilizer and animal manure and organic
fertilizers see 1.2 above.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
There is no estimation of organic-N in the AP.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (Short-term and long-term N availability)
There is no estimation of short-term and long-term N availability in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated?
The AP states that:
• The N fertilizer must be applied on the field evenly and so as to prevent discharges into
waters as effectively as possible.
• Animal sheds must not be established if this may lead to a risk of polluting the ground water
as specified in section 8 of the Environmental Protection Act.
• The location and management of outdoor yards for animals must take the requirements of
surface water and groundwater protection into sufficient consideration.
• The storage of manure in heaps shall be conducted so that no risk of water pollution may be
caused. The AP contains several details of how to store manure heaps, i.e.: ‘storage in
46
•
isolated piles along the field in fact corresponds to manure application. One heap must
contain an amount of manure needed for at least one hectare of field. Piling manure in the
same place every year must be avoided.’
Manure should not be applied on fallow fields earlier than immediately after sowing of new
crops or grass seeds after the fallow season. To reduce loss of NH3, manure should be
applied during cool and calm weather. To prevent microbiological decomposition, it is
recommended that manure be applied as late in the autumn as possible, while also following
the provisions of this Decree.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
The AP states that the scale of use and application of N fertilizers is based on average crop yield,
cultivation zone and crop rotation with the aim of retaining a balanced nutrient level in the soil, for
further details see 1.2 above. The AP also states that the N contained in manure applied in the
autumn must be included when calculating fertilizer amounts the following spring. No guidance is
given on how to make allowance for manure-N applied in autumn when calculating N fertilizer
requirement. The amounts of manure applied in the autumn are restricted to maxima of 30 t/ha solid
manure, 20 t/ha cow slurry, 15 t/ha pig slurry, 10 t/ha poultry or fur animal manure.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
The AP states that N fertilizers must not be applied on snow-covered, frozen or water-saturated
ground. Animal manure must not be applied between October 15 and April 15.
Organic fertilizer applied in the autumn must always be incorporated, within 24 hours at the latest, or
the field must be ploughed.
Application of N fertilizers is prohibited between October 1 and April 15 on field areas that are
repeatedly flooded in spring, but this does not apply when new growth is being established. Use of N
fertilizers is prohibited on areas closer than five metres to a watercourse. Along the width of the next
five metres, surface application of N fertilizers is prohibited if the field slope exceeds two per cent.
Surface application of livestock manure is always prohibited on fields whose average slope exceeds
10 per cent.
The proper time to apply livestock manure is primarily in the spring. The dates are prescribed in
section 5 of the AP.
Application in the spring can begin, within these limits, when the snow has melted, the field surface is
dry and all melt water has drained, even if the soil may still be frozen deeper down. Application must
not cause any risk of water pollution.
The soil in the field must be tilled as soon as possible, within some four hours after manure
application, in order to reduce emissions of NH3 and to reduce offensive odours. Fertilizer placement
of liquid manure and urine is particularly recommended. If this is not done, the manure must be
incorporated or ploughed into the soil.
If manure has to be applied during the growing season, the method used should be fertilizer
placement. Surface application can be used on seedlings and grasslands, preferably using trailing
hoses.
If manure has to be applied in the autumn, smaller amounts are used, as specified in sections 5 and 6
of the AP, and the method of application is the same as above.
47
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
The AP recommend that manure may be applied in the autumn up to November 15, and application
may be started in the spring no earlier than April 1, provided the ground is not frozen and is
sufficiently dry to avoid runoff into watercourses and any danger of subsoil compaction.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
There are no further requirements for recording information.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
There is nothing in the AP about considering applied N excreted during grazing in the concept of
‘manure N efficiency’.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
The AP state that the proper time to apply animal manure is primarily in the spring.
6.2. Soil type
The AP recommends that there should be no autumn application on peat soil.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
The AP recommends that manure may not be applied on grassland after September 15.
6.4. Animal feed
The AP has no guidelines concerning animal feed.
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production)
The regulations required by the Finnish Decree must be put into effect throughout the country, so no
regional differences are stated. As mentioned in section 1.2 there are lower maximum N limits for
certain crops in the northern part of Finland. Concerning the AP regulation about time and method of
application see 4.3 which is applicable on national level. The AP has a regulation concerning organic
farming: ‘Manure composts made into heaps on a field must be applied to the soil during the following
growing season. If this is not possible, the compost made on the field must be covered with a rainproof tarpaulin and applied to the field no later than the following spring.’
48
France
Phase 1: Identify, report and critically evaluate how manure-N efficiency is taken into account
by France in the regional Action Programmes (AP)
Action Plans:
PRÉFECTURE DU FINISTERE. ARRÊTÉ No2009-1210 du 29 juillet 2009 relatif au quatrième
programme d'action à mettre en oeuvre en vue de la protection des eaux contre la pollution par les
nitrates d'origine agricole
PRÉFECTURE DU PAS DU CALAIS. ARRÊTÉ RELATIF AU 4ème PROGRAMME D'ACTION À
METTRE EN OEUVRE EN VUE DE LA PROTECTION DES EAUX CONTRE LA POLLUTION PAR
LES NITRATES D'ORIGINE AGRICOLE
PRÉFECTURE DE LA VENDÉE. ARRETE PREFECTORIAL no 09-DDEA-SEMR-173 relatif au 4ème
programme d'action à mettre en oeuvre en vue de la protection des eaux contre la pollution par les
nitrates d'origine agricole
PRÉFECTURE DES YVELINES. ARRETE No SE 09 000094 relatif au 4ème programme d'action à
mettre en oeuvre en vue de la protection des eaux contre la pollution par les nitrates d'origine agricole
Background to project:
Aim:
•
How is manure N efficiency determined?
Definitions:
Table 13. Terms used to describe the efficiency with which manure-N may be used by crops
Term
Definition
Description
Available-N
Usually the mineral or easily
The N in manures potentially available
mineralized fraction of manure-N
for crop uptake in the season the
manure is applied
Crop-available N
The proportion of available-N
The available-N remaining after loss
remaining as crop-available N will
following application to land as NH3,
depend on factors such as time of
NO3-, etc.
manure application, soil type
NFRV
Nitrogen fertilizer replacement value
The amount of N fertilizer that can be
replaced by manure-N
Manure-N
The proportion of manure-N that can
Available-N plus N expected to be
efficiency
be recovered by crops over more
mineralized over following seasons
than one season, net of losses of N
minus losses following application to
following application to land
land as NH3, NO3-, etc.
Overview (summary)
In France, APs have been established at departmental level (75 APs in total) and 4 have been
reviewed for this project. None of the APs uses the term manure-N efficiency. Information is provided
on the total N content of manures, but not of available N. The APs relate the rate of mineralization of
manure N to the C:N ratio and the N concentration of the manure. Products with a low ratio, such as
manure with no litter, mineralize rapidly, while those with a high C:N ratio (manure with litter) will
mineralize more slowly. Mineral N supplies to a plant in the first year following organic manure inputs
can be calculated if the rates of mineralization are known.
49
Review
In France, APs have been established at departmental level (75 APs in total) and 4 have been
reviewed for this project. These are the APs for:
•
•
•
•
Finistère, in the far west, representing a livestock region with a large proportion of cattle.
Pays du Calais in the far north, representing an intensive livestock region with significant
production of pigs.
Vendée, in the mid west, representing an area of mixed agriculture.
Yvelines in the Paris basin, representing areas of intensive arable production.
The remaining ones have similar provisions and do not give any additional information on manure-N
efficiency.
The legal texts define the measures and actions required for a good management of N fertilizers to
limit NO3- leaching and runoff and to prevent water pollution.
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1. Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
There is no clear definition in any of the departmental APs of manure-N efficiency.
1.2. Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it
possible to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP (so it must be
clear if the MS defines manure-N efficiency in the AP or our consortium identifies manure-N
efficiency, based on the way it is used in the AP)
There is no clear definition in any of the departmental APs of manure-N efficiency.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured estimated?
The Vendée AP includes tables providing the amount of N in manure from different animal categories.
The Yvelines AP makes references to a number of tables (Annex 3) including one that lists the N
content in manure per animal category. However, these tables are not within the AP.
The table from the AP for Vendée is presented in Table 14 below.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Mineral N is not clearly defined within any of the APs, however, average NO3- values of manure are
given in the AP established in the Department of Vendée (see 2.3).
50
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Vendée
Average N values of manure are:
Table 14. Manure analysis
Manure type
Cattle manure
Composted cattle manure
Cattle slurry (undiluted)
Calf slurry
Pig manure
Pig slurry (undiluted)
Layer manure
Layer slurry
Broiler manure
Chicken manure (dry)
Chicken slurry (wet)
Duck manure
Duck slurry
Rabbit manure
Rabbit slurry
Goat manure
3
Total N, kg/t
Total N, kg/m
5.5
5.0
4.0
3.0
4.1
5.0
10.8
7.7
29.0
20.0
6.8
5.0
7.5
9.0
7.0
8.5
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
In the AP for Vendée, tables are given for the quantities of N produced for different animals (poultry,
pigs, cattle etc.), after deductions of losses in housing systems and storage. However, no information
is provided on how these losses are calculated.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
Any organic-N will eventually mineralize. The rate of mineralization is mainly due to the C:N ratio and
the N concentration. Products with a low ratio such as manure with no litter mineralize rapidly, while
those with a high C:N ratio (manure with litter) will mineralize more slowly.
Fertilizers are therefore assigned to one of three categories:
Type I
Type II
Type III
Organic fertilizer with high C:N (at least 8) excluding droppings from ducks and
geese. E.g. straw-based manure
Organic fertilizer with low C:N (less or equal to 8) including dropping from
ducks and geese. E.g. manure from cattle and pigs, commercialized fertilizer
originating from organic manure from animal.
Mineral fertilizers and artificial urea
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
See 3.3.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The AP for Vendée documents how the mineral N supplies to a plant in the first year following organic
manure inputs can be calculated if the rates of mineralization are known. Also, the mineral supplies
for the following years after application are given.
51
Two categories are given:
1. Fast N effect – effluent Type II (%)
Poultry
Pigs
C ttl
2. Slow N effect – effluent Type I (%)
Poultry
Pigs
Cattle
Mineral N – direct effects
Organic N mineralised within the year – direct effects
Organic N mineralised the following years – secondary effects
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not covered in any of the APs.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
The APs refer to the obligation to apply organic and mineral fertilizers based on the balance of
nitrogen fertilizer per parcel of cultivated land. The dosage calculations must be taken into account,
particularly with regard to the crop yield and the way in which the fertilizer is applied: realistic
performance targets, dates and doses of application adjusted in accordance with the agronomic
needs of the plant, the quantities of organic nitrogen known and controlled (adequate materials,
usage of COPERN references or other reference accepted by institutes and technical centres for
emission analysis). These parameters are mentioned in Appendix 4.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The departmental APs detail restrictions on the maximum amount of manure that can be applied on
land (170 kg N/ha), as well as periods during which fertilizer application is forbidden. The closed
period depends on the crop being cultivated and the type of manure. The spreading of manure on
uncultivated soils is forbidden throughout the entire year.
Closed periods differ in different departments. In Pas-de-Calais, Yvelines and Vendée, closed
periods are the same, however, the department of Finistère goes into more detail on the exact crops
being cultivated and hence the timings are slightly different.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
This is not covered in any of the departmental APs.
52
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
In Yvelines, there is an obligation to undertake a residual N check at the end of winter for the crop that
represents the main rotation of the land.
Calais defines a calculation to determine the limits for the application of N within manures.
In all APs, there is a requirement to make a fertilizer plan. In particular, in the department of Finistère,
the plan should cover each cropping season and crop ‘island’, and should be put in place by 31
March. The cropping season is defined from 1 September of the year N-1 to 31 August of the year N,
i.e. from 1 September to 31 August in the year in which arable crops will be harvested.
The crop island is a continuous group of plots which are identical in nature in terms of cropping
history, fertilizer inputs etc. The reference methods used in the plan must be approved by the
Regional Nitrates Committee (COREN).
Record keeping for the application of organic and mineral fertilizers:
All farms are required to have a record book detailing annual records of fertilizer application.
The following elements are to be recorded in the record book (Annex 5A):
Table 15.
Fertilizer Plan (forecast)
- The defined crop island
- The crop grown and the implementation
period for grassland.
- The performance target
For each contribution of organic N provided:
- The period of application envisaged.
- The area concerned.
- The nature of the organic manure.
- The crop N requirement.
- The amount of N provided by the manure
application.
For each mineral N application:
- the period (s) proposed application.
- The area concerned.
- the number of units planned in N intake.
Record Book (realised figures)
- The defined crop island
- The crop grown and the implementation
period for grassland.
- The yield / return
For each contribution of organic N produced:
- the date of application.
- the area concerned.
- the nature of the organic effluent.
- the nitrogen intake.
- the amount of manure N applied.
For each contribution of mineral N application:
- the date of application.
- the area concerned.
- the crop N intake.
- the amount of N contained in the contribution.
The management arrangements between
crops (bare soil, waste management,
volunteer, intermediate
crops traps CIPAN nitrates), including date of
establishment and destruction of CIPAN.
The existence or otherwise
of an intervention designed to manage the crops
(waste
management, volunteer or implantation of
a culture through trap nitrates (CIPAN)).
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
In all APs the maximum quantity of N contained in livestock manure that can be spread annually,
including N excreted by the animals themselves, is defined (this should not exceed 170 kg N/hectare
of the potentially receiving area).
However, no allowance is made for N excreted during grazing
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions
and agricultural practices are affected by:
53
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
The Finistère AP goes into more detail on the exact crops being cultivated and when fertilizer
application is forbidden. Autumn-sown crops and grassland established more than 6 months have
longer closed periods compared with other APs. No other differences were found among the APs.
54
Germany
Action Programme
Fertilizer Application Ordinance (Düngeverordnung) 2006
Overview (summary)
The Fertilizer Application Ordinance for Germany governs Good agricultural practise in the application
of fertilizers, soil improvers, growing media and plant strengtheners on agricultural land and the
reduction of substance-based risks arising from the application of fertilizers, soil improvers, growing
media and plant strengtheners on agricultural land and on other land as expressly stated in the
Ordinance. A nutrient management plan must be set up by agricultural holdings. The nutrient
management plan must take into account crop nutrient demand (depending on soil and climate
conditions), soil nutrient delivery and N and nitrate content in fertilizers. N availability in the first and/or
in following years is not covered in the AP. The basic principle of the German AP is that each farmer
has to make a fertilization plan at the 'parcel' level (section 3, ex-ante), the next year, the farmer has
to make a nutrient management plan analysis for the previous year (section 6, ex-post)
Review
The AP text indicates that it is to be applied to all of Germany without regional differences. However,
the text is not consistent since it is stated elsewhere that regional conditions (soil, climate) shall be
taken into account when estimating nutrient demand and availability. Regional studies shall help to
determine these data. The AP came into force on 10 January 2006.
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
The term 'manure-N efficiency' is not explicitly referred to in the AP. However, section 4 refers to N
composition of manure under section (1), including the share of NH3-N, indirectly referring to 'available
N' and so to manure N efficiency'. Nitrogen efficiency also is indirectly mentioned by the requirement
to “ensure a balance between the estimated nutrient requirement and the nutrient supply”. A nutrient
management plan must be produced and nutrient supply is taken up in the calculation sheets for
establishment of the nutrient management plans analysis. No information is given in the AP on the N
content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of manure-N available for crop uptake.
Definitions used in AP:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fertilizer year: A twelve-month period to which management of the largest portion of the
arable land relates, particularly with regard to the associated use of fertilizers.
Fertilizing: Input of plant nutrients using fertilizers, soil improvers, growing media and plant
strengtheners to grow crops and to preserve soil fertility.
Nutrient input: The sum of the nutrients from the application of fertilizers and from nonfertilizer nutrient yields.
Nutrient requirement: The amount of nutrients needed to attain a certain yield or certain
quality.
Fertilizer requirement: The amount of nutrients needed to meet the nutrient requirement of a
specific crop after deduction of other available nutrient quantities and taking account of
nutrient supply from the soil.
Significant amount of nutrients: an input of nutrients per hectare per year of more than 50 kg
N (total N) or 30 kg phosphate (P2O5).
Significant nutrient loading: Nutrient loading in dry weight containing more than 1.5% total N
or 0.5% for P2O5.
Significant loading of available-N: A soluble portion of more than 10% in a calcium chloride
solution given a total N loading in dry weight of more than 1.5%.
55
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
The German AP has a lengthy statement on “Underlying Principles” where general requirements for
fertilization practises are laid down.
Prior to applying substantial amounts of nutrients containing N or P2O5 the fertilizer requirement of the
crop must be properly determined.
The fertilizer requirement is calculated for each individual land parcel or each management unit and
takes account of the following influencing factors:
• The nutrient requirement of the crop for the yield and quality expected under local conditions
and from the plant variety grown.
• The nutrient supply from the soil together with the additional nutrient quantities available
during growth of the respective crop as influenced by local conditions – particularly climate,
soil class and soil type – and the calculated nutrient requirement.
• The lime content or soil reaction (pH) and the humus content in the soil, the usable nutrient
quantities added as a result of land management practices.
• Crop-growing conditions that could influence nutrient supply, particularly growing media
variety, preceding crops, soil preparation and irrigation.
The results of regional field studies must also be taken into account.
Prior to adding significant quantities of nutrients, holdings must calculate the available nutrient supply
in the soil: In the case of N, this must be calculated for each land parcel or each management unit –
excepting permanent grassland – for the fertilizing period, and at least annually (by studying
representative samples or by following the recommendations of the competent agricultural advisory
authority or by adopting the results of studies conducted at similar locations or by using calculation
and estimation methods based on available knowledge.
The timing and quantities used in the application of fertilizers, soil improvers, growing media and plant
strengtheners must be chosen so that available nutrients or those that will become available are
supplied and distributed as far as possible at the right times and in the quantities dictated by the
nutrient requirements for the crop in question.
N efficiency is indirectly tackled as follows:
• Prior to fertilization, N demand must be calculated taking into account regional characteristics.
• Prior to fertilization, N supply from the soils must be calculated.
• N and nitrate content in fertilizers must be calculated.
• A nutrient management plan must be produced and analysed (a posterior, the allowed
surpluses are written in section 6 and decrease in time, which forces farmers to increase N
efficiency).
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Prior to fertilization, N supply from the soils must be calculated. Sample taking and testing must be
conducted in accordance with the provisions of the competent authority designated by Länder law.
Soil tests must be performed by a laboratory approved by the competent authority in accordance with
the provisions of appropriate regulations.
The application of organic fertilizers or organic-mineral fertilizers or of soil improvers, growing media
and plant strengtheners with largely organic components, including chemical fertilizers, is only
allowed in cases where, prior to application, their loadings of total-N and P2O5, and in the case of
slurry manure, liquid manure, other liquid organic fertilizers or poultry manure also of ammonium
nitrate have been calculated based on data obtained from the competent authority designed by
Länder law or have been calculated using scientifically recognised measuring methods. A Table in the
Annex gives default values on “Parameters for Proper Analysis of Nitrate Fertilizer Inputs”
56
(DüngeVO_DE_Eng_kopieren.pdf, Table in Annex 2). Differentiation of animal categories is limited in
the German AP (cattle, pigs, poultry, other).
The German AP does not contain an Annex Table on N content in animal manures. It is assumed that
these data are to be taken from other authorised sources within Germany.
Record of nitrogen produced by animals on the holding
For the set up of the required nutrient management plan, records must be kept for the number and
category of animals, as well as the N in the manure produced by the animals. The German AP does
not contain an Annex Table on N content in animal manures. We assume that these data are to be
taken from other authorised sources within Germany. Section 4(1) of the AP states possibilities to
assess N and P loadings: prescribed labelling, calculation with data from competent authorities or by
scientifically recognised measuring methods.
Sampling and analysis
The German AP refers to a) prescribed labelling, b) authorised default data from the Länder Law
and/or c) scientifically recognised measuring methods.
Livestock manure brought on to or sent off the holding
This is not directly mentioned in the AP. However, the required nutrient management plan must
include these data.
Record Keeping
The German AP regulates amounts and timing of N application. A nutrient management plan must be
produced: Holders have until 31 March in the calendar year following the previous fertilizer year to
provide documentation showing:
1. The calculated nutrient quantities and the method used in calculating them.
2. The tolerances and the method used in calculating them.
3. The source data used for and the results of the nutrient management plan.
The documentation must be kept for a period of seven years from the end of the respective fertilizer
year.
N demand and supply must consider regional conditions.
The German AP does not contain regulations on manure storage. However, on the 1st Jan 2009 there
came into force the "Verordnung über Anlagen zum Umgang mit wassergefährdenden Stoffen und
über Fachbetriebe" (Decree on facilities for the handling of water polluting substances and on certified
specialists). This states that liquid manure storage facilities must have a storage capacity of at least 6
months. So the situation is the following: the German AP itself does not regulate storage capacities,
but additional decrees do regulate storage capacities.
Nutrient management plan:
Holders must by 31 March of each year produce a nutrient management plan for nitrate and P2O5 for
the previous fertilizer year. The report may take the form of an area-related plan or an aggregated
land parcel plan based on nutrient management plans for each land parcel or each management unit
which is then updated annually to produce a multiyear nutrient management plan. A Table in the
annex regulates “Applicable minimum tolerances (%) of output of total-N in commercial fertilizers of
animal origin and other parameters”. Section 6 of the AP states in detail the allowed surpluses for N
(from 90 kg N in 2006 to 60 kg N in 2009 and P (20 kg P2O5).
The annex of the German AP contains an example of a Nutrient Management Plan.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
No direct answer to this question is given in the German AP. A Table in the annex regulates
“Applicable minimum tolerances (%) of output of total-N in commercial fertilizers of animal origin and
57
other parameters”. For organic manures, not only the total N content, but also the ammonium nitrate
content must be included in the nutrient management plan.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Data are either calculated based on data obtained from the competent authority designed by Länder
law or by using scientifically recognised measuring methods. These methods are not described in the
AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
The German AP contains an annex Table on “Parameters for Proper Analysis of Nitrate Fertilizer
Inputs with Applicable minimum tolerances (%) of output of total-N in commercial fertilizers of animal
origin and other parameters“ that differentiates tolerances “After Deduction of Shed and Storage
Losses” and “After Deduction of Shed, Storage and Application Losses”.
Table 16. Parameters for Proper Analysis of Nitrate Fertilizer Inputs with Applicable minimum
tolerances (%) of output of total nitrogen in commercial fertilizers of animal origin and other
parameters
Livestock class
Cattle
Pigs
Poultry
Other (horses etc.)
Grazing deposits, all livestock
After Deduction of Shed and
Storage Losses
Slurry
solid manure
85
70
After Deduction of Shed,
Storage and Application Losses
Slurry
solid
manure
70
60
60
55
50
60
70
65
60
55
25
Solid manure includes deep litter
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
NA (see section 3.3).
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
NA (see section 3.3).
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The German AP contains an annex Table on “Parameters for Proper Analysis of Nitrate Fertilizer
Inputs with Applicable minimum tolerances (%) of output of total-N in commercial fertilizers of animal
origin and other parameters“. Ammonium nitrate content of organic manures must be known. “N
availability” and “short-term”, “long-term” N availability are not covered by the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not explicitly covered in the AP. However, the set-up of a nutrient management plan and the
lengthy description on “underlying principles” will help to improve N efficiency. Maximum application
times, closing periods and application methods are regulated. This will also help to improve N
efficiency.
58
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
There are limits on the application of nutrients. A nutrient management plan must be produced. Crop
demand must consider climate and regional conditions. Soil nutrient supply must be estimated.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The German AP gives details on periods in which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to
agricultural land (see closed period below).
The German AP regulates:
•
•
•
•
Periods in which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to agricultural land.
Application of N-containing fertilizer on steeply-sloping agricultural land.
Application of N-containing fertilizer on water-saturated, flooded, frozen or snow-covered soil.
Conditions for applying N-containing fertilizer on agricultural land in the vicinity of
watercourses.
Equipment used to apply fertilizers, soil improvers, growing media and plant strengtheners must
comply with generally accepted technological standards. The Annex contains a list of application
equipment that will be banned from 1 January 2010.
Anyone who applies slurry, liquid manure, other liquid organic fertilizers or organic-mineral fertilizers
with significant quantities of available N or poultry manure to unprepared arable land must mix it into
the soil immediately.
The closed period
The German AP regulates times when fertilizer application is prohibited:
Fertilizers with significant loadings of available N, excluding solid manure but not poultry manure, may
not be applied during the following periods:
1. On arable land – from 1 November to 31 January.
2. On grassland – from 15 November to 31 January.
Exceptions from this rule may be granted: The competent authority as designated by Länder law may
select different dates to those stated for the restricted period in Indent 1. Approval criteria include
regional conditions, especially weather and the beginning and end of plant growth, and the objectives
of soil and water protection provisions. The competent authority may also issue additional
requirements concerning application of fertilizers and may grant authorisation for a limited period only.
Restrictions following the closed period and after harvest
Following harvesting of the last main crops before the onset of winter, slurry, liquid manure or other
liquid organic and organic-mineral fertilizers with significant loadings of available-N or poultry manure
may only be applied to arable land as follows:
1. To a successor crop that is the same as that of the previous year, including the intercrop, in an
amount equal to the crop's current fertilizer requirement for N.
2. As a balance fertilizer for cereal stubble left in the field.
Application is, however, restricted to no more than 40 kg ammonium nitrate or 80 kg total N per
hectare.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Yes, indirectly, since the allowed N surplus decreases over time this simulates farmers to increase N
efficiency from manure.
59
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
None. All data required must be included into the mandatory nutrient management plan that has to be
produced every year. A framework for the nutrient management plan is given in the Annex of the
German AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
The Annex Table “Parameters for Proper Analysis of Nitrate Fertilizer Inputs” contains a value for
grazing. Grazing is included in the nutrient management plan.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No efficiency rates are given. The AP distinguishes N consumption by different crops depending on
their yield and N content. Nutrient demand is calculated taking into account regional and climate
conditions.
60
Greece
Action Programme
While there is an AP, only the Code of Good Agricultural Practice to Protect Waters From Nitrate
Pollution From Agricultural Sources (CGAP, 2000) provides relevant information and is the document
used to make this assessment.
Overview
The term manure-N efficiency is not referred to in the CGAP. Reference is made to different 'degrees'
of available N and the greater risks of runoff or nitrate percolation to deeper layers from these. The
phrase 'high degree of available N', is not clarified in the CGAP. No information is given in the CGAP
on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of manure-N available for crop
uptake.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Definitions used in the CGAP:
• ‘Fertilizers’ covers both organic and inorganic fertilizers unless specifically stated (e.g.
manure fertilizers).
The CGAP notes that during grazing periods, the uptake of nitrates by plants decreases and animals
produce urine and manure and consequently nitrate leaching intensifies. To protect meadow
environments from nitrates and achieve a reduction in leaching, farmers should:
• Remove grazing animals from pastures as soon as possible.
• Check soil N content by laboratory analysis.
• Avoid fertilizing meadows with manure or liquid manure.
• Re-seed meadows early in the autumn.
• Ensure the meadow always has plant cover during the winter.
The form of livestock manure depends on the stabling method, the type of animal raised, how manure
is collected and removed from facilities, how it is stored and its content in total solids. Approximate
volumes of manure produced per animal are given in the CGAP. This volume is related to manure
and urine, and the ratio of these is also given.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
Available N is referred to.
‘Liquid manure from poultry contains a high degree of available N thus use thereof entails high risks of
runoff or percolation to deeper layers in the specific months which are critical for nitrate pollution.’ The
phrase 'high degree of available N', is not clarified in the CGAP. No information is given in the CGAP
on the N content, as kg per t or m3, of manures or of the amount of manure-N available for crop
uptake.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Available N is referred to.
61
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not referred to in the CGAP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
This is not referred to in the CGAP.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
This is not covered in the CGAP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not explicitly covered in the CGAP. ‘Management’ of manure as explained in the CGAP relates
to storage and handling of waste. However, the requirements are directed toward water pollution and
only impact on manure-N efficiency insofar as reducing the amount of manure-N lost by leaching will
increase the amount of manure-N remaining is soil for crop uptake.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
This is not covered in the CGAP.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
A general note is made about the way in which fertilizers are applied and controlled. The CGAP
states that ‘using suitable methods the effectiveness of N fertilizers can be increased and the
quantity of nitrates lost from the soil to groundwaters can be reduced.’
Manure should be applied to crops in such a way that the N content of the manure applied does
not exceed crop requirements and doses are applied which preclude (a) runoff and (b)
percolation to the root layer.
In order to determine the minimum necessary crop area for safe application of manure, as well
as doses to cover the aforementioned requirements, regard should be had to the following
factors:
• The volume of manure to be disposed of, its N content and N losses when applied to soil.
• Crop N requirements.
• Soil absorption rates.
• Root layer depth.
• The soil's ability to retain water.
The volume of manure produced by livestock, including manure within bedding material, is given
in the CGAP. The manure N content (NO3 & NH3) is also given for pig manure.
Crop requirements are also given and this allows a calculation of the volume of manure needed.
Calculating soil area to apply treated manure on an absorption – evaporation-based soil - plant
filter comprised of indigenous vegetation
An absorption – evaporation-based soil-plant filter is a specific area of soil planted with
indigenous vegetation which absorbs nutrients from manure and prevents their accumulation in
62
the soil. In order maintain effective operation of the soil-plant filter for a long period of time it is
necessary to systematically cut and remove the indigenous vegetation.
To determine the area required for the soil-plant filter is to necessary to know:
- The annual volume to manure to be applied along with the annual volume of rainfall mixing with
it.
- The number of days the grower can apply liquids to the soil. This number depends on the
number of rainy days in the area and ranges from 100 to 300 days per year.
The recovery period for the same area (5-15 days) depending on the soil type and climate in the
area.
Limits are given for the total annual quantity of N to be applied to meadows in the form of treated
livestock manure. These limits include all organic waste, including manure from animals which may
be grazing on these areas.
More N than that required by the specific crop should not be applied in the form of organic manure.
Fertilizers containing N should be avoided between 15 October and 1 February. On sandy or shallow
soils, liquid manure or waste from poultry cannot be applied between September and October.
There are restrictions on the timings and soil conditions where poultry manure cannot be applied.
Poultry manure has a high degree of available-N and cannot be applied between September and
October on sandy or shallow soils.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
A note is made that when handling liquid manure care should be taken to limit the loss of nutrients in
the manure. Liquid manure primarily relates to pig farms.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Other materials (wash water, bedding, etc.) will increase the final quantity of waste should be added
to the net waste during farm operation. The additional quantities used are given in the CGAP, and for
pigs, the quantity of manure produced increases 2-5 times due to the extra cleaning water, water
leakages and rain in open areas.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
No allowances are made. However, the CGAP mentions that soil has a high ability to high ability to
neutralise and utilise polluting agents and as such, livestock manure should be considered as a
source of nutrients and application should be combined with substitute chemical fertilizers.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
This is not covered in the AP. The only data provided, in tables at the end of the APs, are of the
analysis of compost resulting from mechanical separation of manure at a specific pig farm (case
study) and the indicative composition of pig farm liquid manure after treatment using the open
anaerobic tank system under Greek conditions. These are included in the Annex to this report.
63
Hungary
Action Programme
Decree on the detailed rules of the AP required for the protection of waters against pollution caused
by nitrates from agricultural sources and on the procedures for data provision and registration (Decree
59/2008 (IV. 29.) FVM).
Overview (summary)
The AP for Hungary covers any kind of agricultural activity on nitrate vulnerable zones. The
Hungarian AP works on “Nutrient management”, which means that nutrient supply is compared with
nutrient demand. Maximum application rates and minimum storage capacities are given in the AP
The Hungarian AP does not make regional differences within Hungary based on climate. However,
measures are only applicable within NVZ, although record keeping is required outside NVZs. Special
provisions are given for sloping areas and nitrate vulnerable zones.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Manure-N efficiency is not referred to in the AP. Nutrient inputs must be compared to nutrient
demand. Maximum N application rates are given.
Definitions used in AP:
• Sliding hose (hose curtain) procedure: an operation performed with a slurry applicator or
spraying apparatus to apply slurry directly on the soil surface through a central distributor,
from hoses placed side by side.
• Slurry: liquid organic manure, as defined in separate legislation, suitable for hydraulic
transport.
• Farmyard manure: a mixture of livestock faeces and urine with or without absorbent solid litter
materials, excluding slurry.
• Organic manure: manure excreted by animals, or a mixture of manure and litter, even in
processed form, including, in particular, slurry and FYM.
• Winter grazing: grazing practised during the period of fertilization ban, that is between 15
November and 15 February each year.
• Closed period: dates during which organic manure with high readily available-N may not be
spread on land.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no clear definition in the AP. The AP instead refers to “nutrient management of agricultural
areas”, which means that the volume of nutrients to be applied shall be calculated in view of the
nutrient supply of the soil and the nutrient demand of the amount of N in the manure that is available
for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is spread.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The AP contains tables on:
• Average nutrient content of manures at the time of generation and application.
• Plant-available nutrients of organic manures in soil.
• Maximum values allowed for major crops for nutrient management calculations on nitrate
vulnerable zones.
65
•
•
•
Indicative figures for the determination of the average specific nutrient demand of arable
crops, vegetables and plantations.
Indicative figures for the design of the manure storage capacity of livestock farms.
Calculation of the required manure storage capacity.
Records must be kept for the number and category of animals and on the nutrient management (see
below: record keeping). Maximum amounts of organic and mineral-N fertilizer applications may not be
exceeded.
Sampling and analysis
No manure sampling and analysis is required. N application rates are estimated by national default
values. There is no mention in the AP of an option to analyse manure and use the data obtained.
Record Keeping
The Hungarian AP requires detailed record keeping:
For each management year each farm shall keep continuous records and shall supply data on
nutrient management, fertilization, plot cultivation and animal husbandry pages of the Farming Log,
specified in separate legislation, or of corresponding data. Any change in the method of utilization of
the organic manure shall be reported to the soil protection authority within 30 days. The soil protection
authority having competence over the location of the activity shall perform an overall administrative
check of the obligatory provisions regarding the use of arable land. The soil protection authority shall
prepare a summary of the data every year. Data shall be forwarded to the regional environment
protection environmental authority within 60 days. Farms must keep their records for five years.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
The term mineral-N is not explicitly used in the AP. The term N available for crop uptake from
livestock manure is not used within the AP.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Mineral-N is not measured. Average nutrient content of manures at the time of generation and
application are given.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
The AP contains a table on average nutrient content of manures at the time of generation and
application are given. The AP does not provide any option for derogation based on sampling.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The Hungarian AP contains a table on “Plant available nutrients of organic manures in soil” that gives
nutrient availability for years 1 to 3 after application. It is difficult to understand directly from the text
whether these available nutrients are to be accounted for in the fertilization plan. Annex 1 gives N
contents of slurry and FYM. Annex 2 gives the percentage of plant available nutrients, but only for
FYM. The instructions for the fertilization plan say: “The volume of nitrogen active ingredient applied
via organic manure shall be calculated from the nitrogen data shown on the laboratory test results
sheet. The volume of nitrogen active ingredient applied via farmyard manure shall be calculated from
the indicative figures shown in Annex 1.” The difficulties in obtaining a concrete understanding of the
66
intent of the AP lie in the incorrect and inconsistent use of terminologies. The definitions of manures
typed used in the AP are given in section 1.1 above.
These definitions are not clear. Slurry may be called slurry or organic manure. It is not clear, what is
meant by “organic manure” in contrast to “FYM” in the fertilization plan instructions. Annex 1
differentiates “slurry” and “FYM”. Plant available nutrients in Annex 2 are only given for FYM. But
according to the definition, slurry may also be called “FYM” and so the percentages of plant
availability may also apply for slurry.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not explicitly covered in the AP. Indirectly, the closing period during winter time and the
regulation on manure application after harvesting in autumn will serve to improve N efficiency.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
There are limits on the application of nutrients (from organic manure, mineral fertilizer and grazing
droppings). Data in an Annex are provided to calculate the amount of N in excreta and crop nutrient
requirements. These tables are provided in the Annex to this report.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Controlling how nitrogen fertilizer is spread
Slurry application techniques are regulated if slurry is applied on slopes.
For all slurry applications, it is recommended to apply manure evenly at rates adjusted to actual crop
requirements by manure spreaders with even transversal spreading pattern. The machines used for
slurry application shall be able to apply the slurry directly on or into the soil and to cover the soil in a
single step. Professional machine checks shall be done at least once every year.
FYM must be promptly incorporated after application.
The closed period
The Hungarian AP gives details on periods in which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to
agricultural land. For top dressing of winter cereals the use of fertilizer is permitted from 1 February.
No manure shall be applied between 15 November and 15 February, except for the top dressing of
winter cereals where manure application will be permitted from the 1st of February. The post-harvest
application of manure containing readily soluble N will be prohibited if no new crop is sown in autumn.
After the harvest on a given area, readily-soluble N fertilizers may be applied before the sowing of a
crop that provides sufficient soil coverage only if the period between fertilization and sowing does not
exceed 15 days. The applied N may not exceed the volume required for germination and autumnwinter growth. Apart from that, N fertilizers may be applied during the post-harvest period to facilitate
the decomposition of stem residues, but only in view of the volumes shown in Section C) of Annex 3.
Other provisions
The Hungarian AP regulates:
•
•
Maximum N application rates.
Winter grazing, which is allowed if the annual volume of N originating from animal density
does not exceed 120 kg/ha.
67
•
•
•
Application of N-containing fertilizer on steeply sloped agricultural land (separate regulation
for different slopes, partly, application techniques and rapid incorporation are regulated on
slopes).
Application of N-containing fertilizer on water-saturated, flooded, frozen or snow-covered soil.
Conditions for applying N-containing fertilizer on agricultural land in the vicinity of
watercourses (very detailed regulations given in Article 5).
The Hungarian AP includes an Annex which specifies rules for storage. Account is taken of extreme
rainfall to enable storage of 6 months’ volume of slurry. Farmyard manure shall be stored in a leakfree manure facility with an impermeable foundation and collecting channels for manure liquid. The
capacity of the FYM storage facility shall be sufficient to store 6 months’ volume of FYM. No manure
storage facility is necessary if deep litter is applied directly to arable land in accordance with the
provisions hereof. No manure storage facility may be constructed on drinking water source protection
areas. There are additional regulations for temporary manure heaps.
4.4. Are there recommendations for improvement of manure management and application to
increase N efficiency?
Not directly. However, the Hungarian AP contains a number of regulations on application techniques,
timing of application, nutrient contents in the manures, nutrient availability in manures, manure
storage. All these regulations serve a more environmentally friendly manure management and are
likely to improve N efficiency and to decrease N losses via leaching and runoff.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
The Hungarian AP requires detailed record keeping (see above).
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
The Hungarian AP includes N excretion during grazing in the maximum N application rate applied as
organic manure on agricultural areas of 170 kg/ha,. Specific regulations are given for winter grazing.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No efficiency rates are given for these sub-groups. The Hungarian AP differentiates Plant available
nutrients of organic manures in soil for poor, medium and good quality manures in the years 1 to 3
after application. The AP distinguishes N consumption by different crops depending on their yield and
N content in the manure depending on animal category, and manure type.
68
Ireland
Action Programme
EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES (GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE FOR PROTECTION OF
WATERS) REGULATIONS 2009
Overview (summary)
Available N is referred to in the AP and a Table provided of nutrient availability in fertilizers, including
livestock manures. The application of fertilizer to land is prohibited during certain periods, and this
differs between regions and by type of fertilizer (chemical or organic fertilizer). The closed period is
generally over winter, between September and January. Records must be kept for each holding
indicating, amongst other things, the cropping regimes and their individual areas, livestock numbers
and type, and an estimation of the annual fertilizer requirement for the holding and a copy of any
Nutrient Management Plan prepared in relation to the holding. There is a standard table (Schedule 2,
Table 6) which gives the annual nutrient excretion rates for livestock. When calculating the annual
maximum fertilizer rates of available N to grasslands, N deposited by the animals themselves must be
taken into account.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.3. Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Definitions used in AP:
•
Application to land: in relation to fertilizer, means the addition of fertilizer to land whether by
spreading on the surface of the land, injection into the land, placing below the surface of the
land or mixing with the surface layers of the land but does not include the direct deposition of
manure to land by animals.
•
Farmyard manure: a mixture of bedding material and animal excreta in solid form arising from
the housing of cattle, sheep and other livestock excluding poultry.
•
Fertilizer: any substance containing N or P or a N compound or P compound utilized on land
to enhance growth of vegetation and may include livestock manure, the residues from fish
farms and sewage sludge.
•
Livestock manure: waste products excreted by livestock or a mixture of litter and waste
products excreted by livestock, even in processed form.
•
Organic fertilizer: any fertilizer other than that manufactured by an industrial process and
includes livestock manure, dungstead manure, farmyard manure, slurry, dirty water, non-farm
organic substances such as sewage sludge, industrial by-products and sludges and residues
from fish farms.
•
Slurry: includes—
o excreta produced by livestock while in a building or yard, and
o a mixture of such excreta with rainwater, washings or other extraneous material or
any combination of these.
of a consistency that allows it to be pumped or discharged by gravity at any stage in the
handling process but does not include dirty water.
•
Crop requirement: in relation to the application of fertilizers to promote the growth of a crop,
means the amounts and types of fertilizers which are reasonable to apply to soil for the
69
purposes of promoting the growth of the crop having regard to the foreseeable nutrient supply
available to the crop from the fertilizers, the soil and from other sources.
•
Nitrogen index: in relation to soil is a reference to the index number assigned to the soil to
indicate the level of N.
•
Relevant proportion: in relation to soil N means the proportion of a year as is represented by
the storage period in relation to the holding.
1.4. Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it possible
to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP (so it must be clear if
the MS defines manure-N efficiency in the AP or our consortium identifies manure-N
efficiency, based on the way it is used in the AP)
Available-N is referred to in Table 9 of the AP, table 17 below.
Table 17. Nutrient availability in fertilizers, Table 9 of the AP for Ireland
Fertilizer
Chemical
Pig and poultry manure
Farmyard manure
Spent mushroom compost
Cattle and other livestock manure (including
that produced on the holding
From Jan 1 2007
100
35
20
35
30
Availability (%)
From Jan 1 2008
100
40
25
40
35
From Jan 1 2010
100
50
30
45
40
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The amount of N (total) within slurry and manure is given in a standard table in kg per volume of slurry
and per tonne of manure.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Reference is made to N available for crop uptake from livestock manure reference to manure-N efficiency.
this is the nearest
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
The amount of available-N supplied to the holding by livestock manure is given as the relevant
proportion of the amount of available N contained in the total manure produced by the livestock. The
“relevant proportion” means the proportion of a year as is represented by the storage period which is
specified in the AP (Schedule 3).
The amount of N available to a crop (crop-available N) from chemical fertilizer as well as from manure
is given in a standard table, given as availability, in percentage (%). This availability refers to the year
of application. If the type of organic manure is not given in this standard table, the amount of N
available to a crop is the amount specified in the table in relation to cattle manure unless a different
amount has been determined in relation to that fertilizer by, or with the agreement of, the relevant
local authority or the Agency.
A table is provided to determine the N index for tillage crops. The ‘nitrogen index’ in relation to soil is a
reference to the index number assigned to the soil to indicate the level of N. The N index system
indicates the soil's ability to supply N during the growing season and depends on the previous
cropping history and previous organic manure applications. Cropping history of the field is very
important and ultimately determines the total quantities of N which can be applied to any tillage crop.
There are four N indices ranging from 1 to 4, index 1 soils containing small soil N reserves and index
4 soils having the largest soil N reserves. Where a crop is sown into a soil at index 1, then most of the
70
crop requirements are supplied to the crop from chemical or applied organic N during the growing
season.
The amount of available-N applied to promote crop growth should not exceed the fertilization rates
given in standard tables for various crops.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Although losses from housing and storage are mentioned, there is no information on how to calculate
these losses, but they do need to be recorded in a fertilization plan.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not covered in the AP.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
A fertilization plan must be kept for each holding, describing the crop rotation of the farmland and the
planned application of N in manure and chemical fertilizers. The plan must also include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The number of livestock.
A calculation of manure-N (less losses in housing and storage) produced on the holding.
The crop rotation and area of each crop, including a sketch map indicating location of
individual fields.
The foreseeable N crop requirements.
The amount and the type of manure delivered outside the holding or to the holding.
The results of soil analysis related to soil-N status if available.
Nitrogen application from manure over each field (parcels of the holding homogeneous
regarding cropping and soil type).
Application of N with chemical and other fertilizers over each field.
While this doesn’t specifically account for N efficiency of manure, recording this information will allow
for calculations to be made.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The application of fertilizer to land is prohibited during certain periods, and this differs between
regions and by type of fertilizer (chemical or organic fertilizer). The closed period is generally over
winter, between September and January.
Limits are set for the amount of livestock manure which can be applied. The amount of livestock
manure applied in any year to land on a holding, together with that deposited to land by livestock,
shall not exceed an amount containing 170 kg N per hectare.
The amount of N produced by livestock and the N content of livestock manure is calculated according
to standards tables given in the AP (annual nutrient excretion rates, amount of N in slurry and the
amount of N in manure). The amount of N in pig and poultry manure is specified in a certificate issued
by a competent authority where the authority is satisfied that the N content of the fertilizer in question
has been assessed on the basis of appropriate methodologies based on net farm balance.
71
There are restrictions on how organic fertilizers may be applied, and although these are designed to
reduce leaching, they will also help to reduce nutrient losses during application. Restrictions are:
Organic fertilizers or soiled water shall not be applied to land:
(a) by use of an umbilical system with an upward-facing splashplate;
(b) by use of a tanker with an upward-facing splashplate;
(c) by use of a sludge irrigator mounted on a tanker, or
(d) from a road or passageway adjacent to the land.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Occupiers of holdings are required to take reasonable steps to prevent or minimise the application to
land of fertilizers in excess of crop requirement.
Livestock manure and other organic fertilizers, effluent and soiled water should be applied in as
accurate and uniform manner as practically possible.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Records must be kept for each holding indicating, amongst other things, the cropping regimes and
their individual areas, livestock numbers and type, and an estimation of the annual fertilizer
requirement for the holding and a copy of any Nutrient Management Plan prepared in relation to the
holding. Records must also be kept showing livestock manure and other organic fertilizers moved on
to or off the holding including quantities, type, dates and details of exporters and importers, as the
case may be.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
There is a standard table (Schedule 2, Table 6) which gives the annual nutrient excretion rates for
livestock. When calculating the annual maximum fertilizer rates of available N to grasslands, N
deposited by the animals themselves must be taken into account. it is assumed that the figures in the
standard table would be used to multiply the number of animals by the annual excretion rate.
However, this is not explicitly stated in the AP.
The maximum annual fertilization rates of available-N on grassland takes into account the grassland
stocking rates (Table 12, Schedule 2 of the AP). Grassland stocking rates refer to the N (kg) excreted
by grazing livestock averaged over the net grassland area (ha). The maximum amount of allowable N
application must take into account N deposited by the animals themselves.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
This is not covered in the AP.
72
Italy
Action Programme
All regions where NVZs have been designated have established APs (Lombardy, Friuli, Veneto,
Puglia, Basilicata, Marche). The AP of Lombardy has been analysed for the purposes of the present
study. This AP for Lombardy is exhaustive with data, coefficients and values derived from regional
farms. The estimated values for manure production and N concentration are consistent in the different
APs studied (Lombardy, Friuli, Veneto, Puglia, Basilicata, Marche). There are other regions with APs
providing less exhaustive details.
This means that Lombardy can be used as representative of Italian APs although it is, probably, the
most complete one.
They provide several definitions related to N efficiency
• stabilised slurry: slurry obtained following adequate treatment (storage, aerobic, anaerobic
treatment, etc.).
• nitrogen in the field: the N produced by farms net of losses in shelters and during the removal
and treatment of effluents, including storage.
Overview
In Italy there is national legislation related to implementing the Nitrates Directive with regional
applications. The different NVZs are distributed among 9 different regions. It is the regional
government which regulates the application of the Nitrates Directive and implements their own APs. In
general they provide manure production figures related to animal type as well as N efficiency related
to crop, soil texture etc. The fertilizer application is calculated taking into account those specific
organic N efficiency coefficients presented in several tables in Annexes to the APs. Although most of
the APs studied report the same reference values, tables and general considerations it must be said
that the degree of detail presented varies from region to region.
73
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
Two tables are provided for N related to soil characteristics. A definition of the efficiency of N from
slurry in relation to crops, methods and periods of distribution as well as related to livestock is also
given.
Table 18. Nitrogen efficiency related to crop characteristics.
Crop
Corn, Sorghum
bicolor
and
spring-summer grass
Autumn-winter cereals
and
autumn-spring grass
Second-harvest crops
Fields of mixed
grasses or alfalfa
Period
spring pre-ploughing
Method
Efficiency
on bare earth or stubble
high
summer or autumn pre-ploughing on straw or stalks
on bare earth or stubble
coverage
with ploughing into soil
without ploughing into soil
summer pre-ploughing
on straw or stalks
average
low
high
average
average
summer pre-ploughing
on bare earth or stubble
low
late winter/spring
summer
summer coverage
coverage
fertigation
spring pre-ploughing
coverage
soil preparation
with ploughing into soil
without ploughing into soil
coverage
on straw or stalks
average
high
high
average
average
high
on bare earth or stubble
average
summer or autumn pre-ploughing on straw or stalks
average
on bare earth or stubble
low
after springtime cutting
with ploughing into soil
high
without ploughing into soil
average
after summer cutting
with ploughing into soil
high
without ploughing into soil
average
early autumn
with ploughing into soil
average
without ploughing into soil
low
Poplars and trees
pre-plantation
low
May - September
with grass cover
high
with ploughed land
average
1) The efficiency levels stated in the table can also be considered valid for solid materials and soil conditioners, obviously for
those periods and methods which allow them to be incorporated into the soil. Organic manures may not be applied when the
ground is frozen, snow covered, to land with an outcropping aquifer, with ongoing landslides or which is waterlogged, except for
land used for crops which need to be submerged. For bare ground the closed period is from 1 November to 28 February. On
land with meadows, autumn-winter crops, vegetable crops and tree crops permanently covered by grass, the ban is in place for
90 days.
Table 19. Efficiency coefficients for slurry from pig, cattle and poultry farms
Interaction between application periods and type of soil
Efficiency (1)
Coarse texture
Average texture
Fine texture
Poultry Pigs
Cattle (2)
Poultry
Pigs
Cattle
Poultry
High efficiency
0.84
0.73
0.62
0.75
0.65
0.55
0.66
Average efficiency
0.61
0.53
0.45
0.55
0.48
0.41
0.48
Low efficiency
0.38
0.33
0.28
0.36
0.31
0.26
0.32
(1) The choice of efficiency level (high, medium or low) must be based on distribution periods
(2) The efficiency coefficients indicated for cattle slurry must be considered valid for shovelable
do not undergo maturing and/or composting.
Pigs
0.57
0.42
0.28
Cattle
0.48
0.36
0.24
materials which
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Values are provided for the different livestock types, obtained from commercial farms distributed all
around Italy. As an example:
“Pigs, The figures were obtained from 61 farms, selected according to the criterion of
representativeness, in the regions of Veneto and Emilia Romagna, for a total of 215,000 animals. The
values were obtained by checking the movements of livestock and feedstuffs between 1997 and
2003.”
74
The same has been done for cattle, dairy cows, sows etc. (Table 20).
Table 20. Nitrogen produced by livestock animals: values in the field per year net of losses from NH3
emissions; distribution of nitrogen between slurry and dung
Category of animal and type of housing
Nitrogen in the field (net of losses)
Total
in slurry
in dung (a)
kg/live
kg/live
weight in
weight in
kg
kg/live
tons/year
tons/year
/animal/
weight in
year
tons/year
Pigs: sows with piglets up to 30 kg live weight (b)
26.4
101
ƒ
Housing without litter
101
ƒ
Housing on litter
101
Pigs: growth/fattening (b)
ƒ
Housing without litter
ƒ
Housing on litter
Producing (dairy) cattle (live weight:
600 kg/animal) (c)
ƒ
Restricted or loose housing without litter
ƒ
Loose housing on deep litter
ƒ
Restricted housing with litter, loose on
inclined litter
ƒ
Loose housing with straw in stalls (back
to back)
ƒ
Loose housing with straw in stalls (head
to head)
9.8
Replacement dairy cattle (live weight:
300 kg/animal) (d)
ƒ
Loose housing in pens on slatted flooring
ƒ
Loose housing without straw in stalls or
with a moderate use of straw
ƒ
Restricted housing with litter
ƒ
Loose housing with deep litter only in the
rest area (removal at the end of the
cycle)
ƒ
Loose housing with deep litter in the
feeding area as well; loose housing with
inclined litter
ƒ
Calves on slatted flooring
ƒ
Calves on litter
36.0
Cattle for fattening (live weight: 400 kg/animal) (e)
ƒ
Loose housing in pens on slatted flooring
ƒ
Loose housing without straw in stalls or
with a moderate use of straw
ƒ
Restricted housing with litter
ƒ
Loose housing with deep litter only in the
rest area (removal at the end of the
cycle)
ƒ
Loose housing with deep litter in the
feeding area as well; loose housing with
inclined litter
ƒ
Calves bred for white meat on slatted
flooring (live weight: 130 kg/animal) (f)
ƒ
Calves bred for white meat on litter (live
weight: 130 kg/animal) (f)
33.6
110
110
110
83
138
138
62
39
76
99
85
53
53
85
120
120
120
26
61
94
59
17
103
120
20
100
84
84
84
75
18
43
66
41
12
72
8.6
67
67
8.6
67
12
55
Laying hens (live weight: 2 kg/animal) (g)
ƒ
Laying hens in crates without dropping
drying techniques
ƒ
Laying hens in crates with the drying of
droppings on ventilated belts or in
ventilated tunnels or in an area below
crate level (deep pit)
ƒ
Laying hens and breeders on the ground
with litter and with aeration of droppings
in the pit below the slatting (perch)
0.46
Pullets (live weight: 0.7 kg/animal) (g)
ƒ
Pullets in crates without dropping drying
techniques
ƒ
Pullets in crates with the drying of
droppings on ventilated belts or in an
area below crate level (deep pit)
ƒ
Pullets in deep litter
Broilers (live weight: 1 kg/animal) (h)
ƒ
In deep litter
0.23
230
230
230
230
328
328
328
328
1925
250
250
Turkeys (h)
ƒ
Males in deep litter (average live weight:
9 kg/animal)
ƒ
Females in deep litter (average live
weight: 4.5 kg/animal)
Guinea fowl (live weight: 0.8 kg/animal)
ƒ
In deep litter
Rabbits
ƒ
Breeders in cages with manual or
mechanical removal (scraper) (average
live weight = 3.5 kg/animal)
ƒ
Rabbits for fattening with manual or
mechanical removal (scraper) (average
live weight = 1.7 kg/animal)
Sheep and goats
ƒ
Loose housing in individual or group
enclosures
ƒ
On grating or slatted flooring
Horses
ƒ
Housing in individual or group enclosures
1.49
165
165
0.76
0.19
169
240
169
240
143
143
143
143
99
44
55
99
69
21
48
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
No estimate is provided of mineral-N in manure.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Since values for mineral-N are not provided, no methodology is described.
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Ammonia volatilization is mentioned as a consideration in the estimates of available N
showed in several tables (see point 2.1), where the text specifies : Nitrogen produced by livestock
animals: values in the field per year net of losses from NH3 emissions. These values are (as it was
explained in the assessment) obtained form commercial farms around Italy and were obtained for
different types of livestock, different management systems etc..
76
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
No data and no references.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
The estimation of N availability is calculated taking account of volatilized N, N intake and retained N.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The only reference to this point is shown in the considerations that should be reported in the
Agronomic Use of Fertilizers Plan where it is specified that “NF = the availability of N from organic
fertilization during the previous year. This item must include the availability from the distribution of
solid manure in the previous year, equal to a minimum of 30% of the nitrogen contributed.”
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
The following best spreading techniques are given by way of example below:
a) doses of slurry in several applications;
b) direct injection into the soil or low pressure surface spreading with ploughing in within
12 hours on pre-ploughed sowable land;
c) direct injection, where technically possible, or ground-level spreading on meadow
crops;
d) ground-level band spreading or low pressure cover surface spreading on cereal crops
or second harvest crops.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures
The Agronomic Use of Fertilizers Plan should include:
The crops’ N requirements, estimated using a balance approach. For the purposes of farm
application, they can be formulated using the following equation:
Nc + Nf + An + (Kc F c) + (Ko Fo) = (Y x b)
The first element of the equation consists of the N additions, to be quantified as follows:
•
NC = availability of N from crop residues
Significant quantities of N which can be absorbed by the subsequent crop can be found after the
cultivation of alfalfa or grassland over the long term (more than 5 years). In such cases, supplies of
the following amounts should be considered:
60 kg, for sparse alfalfa fields;
80 kg, for 3-year old alfalfa fields in good condition, and meadows of more than 5 years;
30-40 kg, for fields of clover and short-term grassland. When the crop residues have a C:N ratio
above 30, immobilisation of N prevails.
If cereal straw or corn stalks are ploughed into the soil the amount of N which can be absorbed by the
next crop is reduced, by 30 and 40 kg per hectare respectively;
•
NF = the availability of N from organic fertilization during the previous year. This item must
include the availability from the distribution of solid manure in the previous year, equal to a minimum
of 30% of the N contributed.
AN = natural contributions, consisting of:
77
-
Nitrogen supplied by the soil.
FC is the quantity of N contributed by chemical or mineral fertilizers;
KC is the efficiency coefficient relating to amounts contributed by chemical fertilizers (FC). In general,
100% of the commercial amount of N fertilizer is considered;
FO is the quantity of N contributed by organic fertilizers (livestock manure, sewage sludge, recovered
waste water referred to in Ministerial Decree 185/2003, etc.);
KO is the efficiency coefficient (1) relating to the contributions of organic fertilizer (FO). This varies
depending on the crop.
Y = expected yield
b = N content of crop
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
The application system selected must be able to distribute the fertilizer efficiently, uniformly and
regularly both along the direction in which the machine progresses (longitudinal distribution uniformity)
and in the perpendicular direction (transverse distribution uniformity).
The season of application is provided in the CGAP, corresponding with the usual recommendations.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Within 5 years from this decree coming into force, these values will be increased to 60% for pig and
poultry slurry and to 50% for cattle slurry.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Agronomic Use of Fertilizers Plan (SAUFP/AUFP) requires:
• The size of farm based on the total liveweight of the livestock.
• The quantity, characteristics and volume of the manure produced.
• The capacity and characteristics of the stores in relation to the quantity and type of livestock
manure produced on the farm.
• The crop system.
• The types of mineral or synthetic fertilizers, soil conditioners and any other N input used.
• The times of application.
• The values of on-field N in slurry and solid manure for storage only, and in the case of other
treatment apart from storage.
• The farm’s total N balance removed by the crops and contributed through the management of
organic and/or mineral fertilization.
• The methods and times of application, in relation to uniform areas, soils, distribution methods
etc.
• The respective quantities and efficiency indicators.
• The crops’ likely N requirement.
Most details are required in the Complete Agronomic Use of fertilizers Plan
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
N excreted minus N volatilized. As can be seen in Table 20 above, they provide the N excreted once
the ammonium volatilized is subtracted, as it is explained in the title that values are considered to be
available in field.
78
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
There are enclosed on N efficiency (high, medium, low) considering soil texture as has been
presented above.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
Not specified, these data should to be recorded in the Complete Agronomic Use of Fertilizers Plan to
be filled by the farmers.
6.4. Animal feed
For most of livestock species (dairy cows, suckler cows, sow with piglets, pigs) the available N in
manure is calculated considering N intake, volatilized N and N retained. So the animal nutrition is
considered as an important factor for total N in manure estimations.
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
To be recorded in the Complete Agronomic Use of Fertilizers Plan but no specified in the document.
7. Record any regional differences in APs
Most of the APs present the same tables and considerations.
79
Latvia
Action Programme
• Regulations regarding Protection of Water and Soil from Pollution with Nitrates Caused by
Agricultural Sources. Cabinet Regulation No. 531. Adopted 18 December 2001.
• Code of Good Agricultural Practice (No citable reference to this code is given in the AP, nor is
any reference provided in the CGAP document itself).
The AP of Latvia is a document that only describes the NVZ, its agriculture and the needs for the 4
year period. Hence it does not implement the Directive by means of inclusion of measures from
Annex II and III of the Directive. Therefore references to AP are not relevant and in this report we
refer only to the CGAP.
Overview (summary)
The CGAP of Latvia contains a table with the effective fertilizing values of manure for both 1st and 2nd
year after application. Latvia uses the NFRV as definition for N efficiency. The NFRV for the first year
is 25-30% for solid manure, 50% for liquid pig manure, and 60% for slurry. The CGAP also includes a
table with the composition of different types manures (dependent of livestock type, milk production,
and type of housing system), including total N contents. In the CGAP there are some
recommendations for using manure, including the time and method of application. Solid manure has
to be incorporated in arable land within a period of 24 hours after application. Liquid manure has to be
incorporated within a period of 12 hours;
Review
This review is based on CGAP, i.e. regulation no.531, and not on the AP.
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no definition in the regulation, but the CGAP includes a table with the effective fertilizing
values of manure for both 1st and 2nd year after application. Thus, Latvia appears to use the NFRV as
definition for N efficiency.
Table 21. Effective fertilizing value of livestock manure, % (according to the Methodology of
fertilizer planning by the Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Centre) (Listed as Table 6 in the
CGAP of Latvia)
Type of livestock manure
Cattle or pig manure with litter material
Year
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
Liquid cattle or pig manure
Poultry manure
with litter material
Poultry manure without litter material
Slurry
Effective fertilizing value %
N
K2O
P2O5
25
35
50
10
15
20
50
35
60
10
10
10
25
35
50
10
15
20
30
40
60
10
10
10
60
70
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The CGAP includes at table with the composition of different types manures (dependent of livestock
type, milk production, and type of housing system); it includes total N contents (see table 22 below).
81
Table 22. Fertilizers and their chemical composition (according to Manure Standards, Ministry
of Agriculture, 2005)
Groups of farm animals and type of
housing
Type of
manure
Dairy cows, milk yield 3500 – 5000 kg per
year. Tethered, solid floor
Dairy cows, milk yield 5000 – 6000 kg per
year. Tethered, solid floor
Dairy cows, milk yield 5000 – 6000 kg per
year. Loose, solid floor
Dairy cows, milk yield over 6000 kg per
year. Tethered, slatted floor
Heifers, (up to 6 months of age), tethered,
solid floor
Heifers, (over 6 months of age), tethered,
solid floor
Fattening young cattle (heifers and bulls),
tethered, solid floor
Beef-type cows with calves, loose, solid
floor
Beef-type bulls, tethered, solid floor
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
Breeding bulls, tethered
Cattle
Pregnant sows,
solid floor
Pregnant sows,
slatted floor
Sows with piglets,
solid floor
Sows with piglets, slatted floor
Piglets, (7.5-30kg)
solid floor
Piglets, (7.5-30kg)
slatted floor
Fattening pigs, (30-100 kg) solid floor
Fattening pigs, (30-100 kg)
slatted floor
Boars, solid floor
Pigs
Goats with yeanlings, solid floor
Sheep with lambs, solid floor
Horses, tethered, solid floor
Broilers
Laying hens, battery cages
Laying hens, battery cages
Annual
Dry
production matter
,t
%
11.5
18
22.0
7
13.5
20
27.0
7
15.5
20
Plant nutrients in manure
kg/t fresh weight
N
P2O5
K2O
4.1
2.2
3.6
2.3
0.9
1.9
4.4
2.7
3.8
2.4
1.2
2.2
3.3
4.4
4.3
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
17.5
30.0
2.6
22
8
18
5.5
2.6
3.7
2.3
1.4
2.5
4.4
2.4
1.9
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
8.0
15.0
11.1
16.0
12.0
18
7
18
10
20
3.4
2.2
3.8
3.7
3.4
2.5
0.9
3.9
2.7
2.9
1.7
1.8
4.0
1.8
7.4
litter manure
liquid manure
litter manure
slurry
litter manure
11.1
20.5
14.0
6
1.5
20
7
20
3
22
4.7
2.4
4.3
4.1
7.1
1.9
1.2
5.5
0.1
7.6
4.2
1.8
4.2
7.9
2.3
liquid manure
2.5
9
4.6
3.5
2.0
litter manure
1.5
26
5.4
6.1
2.6
liquid manure
litter manure
2.5
0.25
6
25
3.1
6.4
2.6
6.2
0.8
2.6
liquid manure
0.4
7
3.8
3.3
2.2
litter manure
liquid manure
1
2
21
8
7.1
4.9
5.9
4.1
3.2
1.7
1.5
1
1.5
1.3
8
0.22
0.05
25
3
30
30
30
45
30
2.6
1.8
7.6
7.4
5.2
21.7
15.9
4.5
0.15
6.7
4.3
3.6
16.8
12.2
2.6
3.2
7.2
5.7
7.5
11.4
6.4
0.01
10
6.4
4.7
2.2
litter manure
slurry
litter manure
litter manure
litter manure
litter manure
manure without
litter material
liquid manure
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Not covered in CGAP
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Not directly. The amount of manure that is applied to soils is calculated using Livestock Units. 1 LSU
is 100 kg manure N. There is a table available in the AP with LSU standards, i.e. the manure
production. This must be the N excretion minus the gaseous emissions (but this is not stated in the
AP and CGAP).
82
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The table includes N efficiency coefficients for the first and second year.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
In the CGAP there some recommendations for using manure:
• Manure is best spread on cool, wet and preferably windless days to prevent evaporation of N.
• Liquid manure and slurry should be spread and incorporated very evenly into the soil. Higher
air temperatures increase evaporation of N.
• If atmospheric temperature exceeds +20 degrees spreading of liquid manure is not
economically viable.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
Farmers have to fill in a fertilizer plan. A fertilizer plan should include, among other things, the NFRV
of manure, the required amount of plant nutrients for standard crop yield values and adjustment for
the difference between the standard and the expected crop yield.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
In Regulation No. 531 the following restriction on manure use are presented:
•
Liquid fertilizers and manures shall not be spread during the time period from 15 November to
1 March.
•
After surface application of solid manures to arable land, the manure has to be worked into
the ground within a period of 24 hours. Liquid manures have to be incorporated within a
period of 12 hours.
•
At least half of the liquid manure that is stored during the winter has to be applied to crops by
1 July.
•
During the autumn, liquid manures can only be applied together with crop residues (stubble,
chopped straw, grass roots), by working them into the soil by means of ploughing.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
This is not covered in the AP.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
This is not reported in the AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not indicated.
83
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
These are not reported in the AP.
84
Lithuania
Action Programme
The AP of Lithuania is a document that only describes the NVZ, its agriculture and the needs for the 4
year period. Hence it does not implement the Directive by means of inclusion of measures from
Annex II and III of the Directive. Therefore references to AP are not relevant and in this report we
refer only to the CGAP.
•
Code Of Good Agricultural Practices For Lithuania, Rules and Recommendations
Overview (summary)
The CGAP includes a table with coefficients of utilization of N in solid manure. It is defined as crop
available N. There is no table with coefficients for liquid manure. It is indicated that farms should
determine the fertilizer value of the manure using a quick test method or a laboratory analysis
immediately before spreading. If it is not possible to analyse the manure composition, the normative
average value can be used (presented in the Annex). In the fertilizer plan, the available manure-N is
subtracted from the N standard for mineral fertilizers. Solid manure should be incorporated into the
soil within 6 hours after application. Application of FYM on pastures, meadows and grasses in crop
rotation fields is not recommended.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
A table is included with coefficients of utilization of N in solid manure (see below). In the text it is
stated: “It is determined that plants take about 35 % of N from littered manure in first year on
average”. This is the crop available N.
There is no table with coefficients for liquid manure. It is not clear if it assumed that all N in liquid
manure is available for uptake.
Table 23. Coefficients for utilization of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in manure
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
It is indicated that farms should determine the fertilizer value of the manure using a quick test method
or laboratory analysis immediately before spreading. Moreover, it is indicated that if it is not possible
to analyse the manure composition, the normative average value can be used. These figures are
included in the Annex of the CGAP of Lithuania.
85
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
These losses are not directly accounted for in the N efficiency, but are indirectly included in the
normative average values of manure composition.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
See Table 1 under Question 1.2.
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
There is no information added in the AP about estimation of mineral N in manure. The total N content
is considered in the estimation of manure N efficiency (mineral and organic N are separated in the
assessment of N efficiency).
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
There is no information added in the AP about estimation of organic N in manure. The total N content
is considered in the estimation of manure N efficiency (mineral and organic N are separated in the
assessment of N efficiency).
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
This is not covered in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
When manure is applied, the amount of nutrient taken up from manure is subtracted from nutrient
norm of mineral fertilizers.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Organic fertilizer (manure, sewage sludge, composts, etc.) should be spread from when the soil dries
out in spring to when the soil freezes in autumn.
Solid manure should be incorporated into the soil within 6 hours after application. The greatest N
losses occur when FYM is applied on perennial grasses in summer. Therefore, application of FYM on
pastures, meadows and grasses in crop rotation fields is not recommended.
Slurry and liquid manure should be spread in crop fields by trailing hoses. If such equipment is not
available liquid manures should not be applied to cropped fields. Slurry and liquid manure should be
spread on bare soil by trailing hoses or broadcast spreaders and incorporated by cultivator with
harrow within 6 hours after application.
In order to reduce crop losses caused by heavy machinery used for slurry application it is necessary
to apply when the soil surface and any crops are dry. The best option is for fertilization and plant
protection machinery to use prepared tramlines (narrow unsown areas between crop rows sacrificed
for machinery travel) or wheelings in the crop made during the first machinery operation.
86
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
The application rate of organic fertilizers depends on their nutrient value, crop type and soil texture.
Knowing the nutrient value of manure, and especially its concentration of N, is very important for
rational manure use from an agronomic and also an ecological point of view. If there is no possibility
to perform chemical analysis, corresponding normative indices have to be followed (Annex 3.3).
According to the indices, in medium and heavy soils the annual rate of FYM should not exceed 50
t/ha for row crops, 40 t/ha for winter cereals, and in light soils 40 and 30 t/ha correspondingly. Since
its N is easily taken up by plants the maximum rate of liquid manure applied in one time is 15-20 t/ha
in any type of soil. It is not useful to increase manure and liquid manure rate, because losses of N and
other nutrients are likely to increase the risk of environmental pollution.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
This is not covered in the AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
These are not covered in the AP.
87
Luxemburg
Action Plan
Règlement grand-ducal du 24 novembre 2000 concernant l’utilisation de fertilizants azotés dans
l’agriculture.
Overview (summary)
The AP for Luxemburg provides very little information, so that it was difficult to assess the extent to
which the concept of manure-N efficiency is currently utilised or what proposals exist to improve it.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the AP (see above
definitions).
The AP does not mention manure-N efficiency. However, it does indicate that mineral-N fertilizer
applications must be reduced following livestock manure application taking account of the amount of
manure applied, the type of manure, the application technique, the crop, and the application period. It
is indicated in the AP that recommendations are provided in the guide of good agricultural practices.
This suggests that in the AP manure efficiency is not directly taken into account, but that in the CGAP
recommendations are given of how to account for manure-N in a fertilizer plan.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
No.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
This is not covered in the AP.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not covered in the AP.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
This is not covered in the AP.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are addressed in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
The measures required for the Nitrates Directive are included, such as closed periods, measures for
sloping soils, and maximum manure application rates, but no specific measures to increase N
efficiency.
89
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
This is not covered in the AP, but there is an implication that it is addressed in the CGAP.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The closed periods for slurry are:
• 15 October – 1 March for uncropped soils;
• 15 October – 15 February for cropped arable soils;
• 15 October – 15 February for grassland.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
There are no proposals in the AP for measures to increase manure-N efficiency.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
This is not covered in the AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
These are not covered in the AP.
90
Malta
Background:
The document does not establish any concrete action, most of the values and practices are upon the
decision of the “competent authority” so they are completely undefined. In fact, this programme
seems much more an Index than a AP itself.
Overview
Malta has declared its whole territory a NVZ so has only one AP. The document provided does not
establish any specific figure or reference to the N content of manure. The Maltese CGAP only
provides the approximate application rates of manure that can be applied per hectare depending on
livestock type. There is no reference to mineral N content in manure, nor to long term availability etc..
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
No clear definition is given, and no estimation is provided either.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
This is not provided in the AP.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
No estimation of mineral-N in manure is provided.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not described in the AP.
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Not described.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
No data or references are provided.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
No data or references are provided.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
The is no reference to this in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
91
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
The AP establishes that these aspects are to be decided by a competent authority.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Not described.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not described in the AP.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No data on these aspects are provided, and there are no regional differences recorded in the AP.
92
Netherlands
Action Programme
Fourth Action Programme Nitrate Directive (2010-2013)
Overview (summary)
There is no clear definition of manure-N efficiency presented in the AP of the Netherlands. The study
that underpins the coefficients shows that the Netherlands uses the NFRV, i.e. the N in manure which
is as available as mineral fertilizer N (The amount of N fertilizer that can be replaced by manure-N).
Tables are available with the NFRV of different types of manures, which are based on both
experiments and modelling. The NFRV for cattle slurry is 60%, for cattle manure produced on farms
with grazing it is 45%, for pig slurry 60-70% (depending on soil type), for liquid manure 80%, and for
solid manure 40-55%. There are three measures in the AP to improve manure-N efficiency: i) the
periods in which manure is allowed to be applied, ii) the manure application technique, and iii) the
growth of winter crops. Moreover, the N and P application standards and manure application
standards force farmers to use the manure efficiently. Surface application of slurry and slurry
application in autumn and winter are not allowed in the Netherlands.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no clear definition presented in the AP.
However, the figures for manure N-efficiency in the AP of the Netherlands are based on the study of
Schröder et al. (2008). The definition used by the Netherlands is the NFRV, i.e. the N in manure
which is as available as mineral fertilizer N (The amount of N fertilizer that can be replaced by
manure-N).
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
This is not indicated in the AP. However, a protocol is available to determine the efficiency of organic
products which are not indicated in the AP and in the Dutch fertilizer Act. http://edepot.wur.nl/31724
For total N, the Kjeldahl method is recommended.
If no measurements are available, the farmers can use the table with average manure composition
presented in the fertilizer recommendations, given in Table 24 below.
93
Table 24. Average composition of organic products in g N per kg product
(http://www.bemestingsadvies.nl/)
Manure type
Liquid manure
Slurry
Solid manure
Livestock
Cattle
Fattening pigs
Sows
Cattle
Fattening pigs
Sows
Meat calves
Kippen
Cattle
Pig (straw based)
Layers
Broiler
Turkey
Horses
Mink
Sheep
Goat
Duck
Rabbit
Mushroom compost
Compost
Total N
4
6.5
2
4.4
7.2
4.2
3
10.2
6.4
7.5
24.1
30.5
24.7
5
17.7
8.6
8.5
8.3
13.6
5.8
8.5
Mineral N
Organic N
3.8
6.1
1.9
2.2
4.2
2.5
2.4
5.8
1.2
1.5
2.4
5.5
6.4
10.1
2
2.6
1.7
3.3
0.3
0.8
0.2
0.4
0.1
2.2
3
1.7
0.6
4.4
5.2
6
21.7
25
18.3
7.6
6.6
5.9
6.6
10.3
5.5
7.8
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
For mineral N, standard analytical methods can be used. If no measurements are available, the
farmers can use the table with average manure composition presented in the fertilizer
recommendations (see above).
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
For each livestock category, housing system and manure storage system, losses of N as NH3, N2O,
N2 and NOx are estimated.
The Dutch fertilizer Acts contains a detailed table with the N excretion and the correction factors for
gaseous N losses in housing systems for all livestock categories and in the Netherlands (from mouse
to horse). Source:
http://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0018989/BijlageD/geldigheidsdatum_03-112010/afdrukken/redirect_BWBR0018989%252FBijlageD
These estimates are based on measurements, literature, and expert estimates. The corrections for
gaseous emission are regularly updated. The major results are presented in the reports cited in the
Annex to this report.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
The NFRV is based on a combination of results of field experiments, in which the N yield of manure is
compared with N fertilizer, and modelling, in which the availability of mineral N and organic N is
estimated.
Some results of recent experiments in the Netherlands in which NFRV has been quantified:
• Cattle slurry on maize land on sand: NFRV: 55-60% first year and 80% long term (Schröder et
al., 2005).
• Cattle slurry on grassland on sand: NFRV: 51-53% first year and > 75% long term (Schröder
et al., 2007).
• Cattle slurry on grassland on sand: NFRV: 55-69% (Schröder et al., 2010).
• Pig slurry on grassland on sand: NFRV: 8-84% (Schröder et al., 2008).
• Pig slurry on potato on clay: 62-82% (Dekker et al., 2004-2006).
94
•
•
Cattle slurry on potato and maize on clay: 24 – 59% (Dekker et al., 2007 and 2008).
Solid cattle manure on grassland on sand: 31% first year and > 60% long term (Schröder et
al., 2007).
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
In the modelling, it is assumed that part of the mineral will be lost by NH3. Values range from about 5
– 20% for application techniques with reduced-NH3 emission to 68-77% of N surface-applied slurry
(no longer allowed in the Netherlands).
For manure applied in autumn (not allowed from 2010) it was assumed that only 15% of the mineral N
was available for the crop in the next season.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
This was estimated on the basis of model estimates.
The availability of organic N is estimated in fertilizer recommendations as (Van Dijk et al., 2004):
• Cattle slurry on grassland (whole season): 24%.
• Cattle slurry on arable land: 30%.
• Pig slurry on grassland (whole season): 24%.
• Pig slurry on arable land: 45%.
• Poultry manure on grassland (whole season): 56%.
• Poultry manure on arable land: 45%.
(Dijk et al., 2004).
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
In the AP the first year efficiency is included. Schröder et al. (2008) showed that the long-term
efficiency is greater (see above).
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
There are three measures: i) the periods in which manure is allowed to be applied, ii) the application
technique, and iii) the growth of winter crops. Moreover, the N and P application standards and
manure application standards force farmers to use the manure efficiently.
Spreading periods for slurry and storage capacity
AP of the Netherlands states that: “In recent decades there has been a gradual reduction in the period
during which spreading manure is permitted. The most recent change concerns the period when
slurry can be applied to clay soil. This has meant a considerable reduction in mineral losses to
groundwater and surface water. Nevertheless, it is still felt that the optimal situation has not been
achieved. This applies in particular to the situation of arable land, where the current rules allow
manure to be spread in the summer, after the harvest, on land that is then set aside until the following
spring. This situation is not agriculturally effective. Manuring grassland late in the season is also not
considered to be effective. The rules governing the period for spreading manure will therefore be
tightened up as follows:
Application of slurry on clay grassland and peat grassland permitted from 15 February to the following
1 September (currently 1 February to 15 September).
Application of slurry on sandy grassland and loess grassland permitted from 15 February to the
following 1 September (currently 1 February to 1 September).
Application of slurry on arable land is permitted from 1 February to the following 1 August (in 2009
from 1 February to 15 September for clay and peat and from 1 February to 1 September for sand and
loess); the end date can be 1 September only in combination with a green cover crop or bulbs planted
during autumn.
95
These measures will take effect on 1 January 2012.
Because the manure application period has been reduced, it has been agreed to increase the
compulsory minimum storage capacity for livestock manure on site from six to seven months. This
measure will come into force on 1 January 2012.”
Reduced emission manure application
The AP of the Netherlands states that:
“ The implementing decree on the use of manures and fertilizers [Besluit gebruik meststoffen] lays
down in detail how low emissions can be achieved when spreading livestock manure. Earlier studies
have shown that the greatest emission reduction is obtained if the manure is wholly or partially
worked into the soil. Nevertheless, slurry may now be applied on grassland, not in the soil, but on the
surface, as long as it is applied in strips of a certain size. This exception was introduced because of
technical difficulties. These are less of a problem for sandy grassland, and there is therefore no longer
any reason to make an exception for sandy soil. This measure will cause ammonia to evaporate, so
more of the nitrogen in the manure becomes available to the crop. This method will be prohibited with
effect from 1 January 2012.”
Catch crops
The AP of the Netherlands states that:
“ Growing a catch crop directly after the harvest will fix nutrients that are still present, thus preventing
them from being leached into groundwater and surface water during the following winter. Growers
currently have to choose from four prescribed crops. To allow the cultivation of catch crops to better
suit the cropping plan, the crops of winter wheat, winter barley and triticale may also be grown from
1 January 2010.”
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
The N application standards of the Netherlands are expressed in available-N. The N in mineral-N
fertilizers are totally accounted for (100%). Only N in manure that can replace mineral-N fertilizer has
to be accounted for, using the NFRV. For example, pig slurry has a NFRV of 70% on sandy soils. The
N application standard for potatoes on sandy soil is 245 kg N per ha. If a farmer uses 150 kg N per ha
as mineral fertilizer, he can apply in addition 95 kg N per ha as efficient pig slurry N. This is 95/0.7 =
136 kg total pig slurry N. Notice that there are also P application standards and manure application
standards (170 kg N per ha, except for farms with derogation, who can apply 250 kg N per ha).
Table 25. Nitrogen coefficients for the year 2011 in the Netherlands*
Manure produced at own farm
(livestock farms with grazing of
cattle, sheep, goats, horses)
Other
Cut and grazed grassland
Cut grassland
Liquid fraction after separation
Slurry on clay and peat, excl. cattle slurry
Slurry on sand and loess, excl. cattle slurry
Cattle slurry
Solid manure pigs, poultry, and minks
Solid manure other categories
Compost of mushrooms
Other organic products
Peat
Mixtures of products
* application of manure in autumn is not allowed
** Nitrogen coefficients = NFRV
96
45
60
80
60
70
60
55
40
25
50
0
the highest
coefficient of the
individual products
has be used
What is required to calculate the manure application rate:
• The N application standard (tables with N application standards for 180 crops at three soil
types (sand, clay, peat) are available in the Netherlands).
• The NRFV (the table is available; see below).
• The P application standard.
• The manure application standard.
• The amount of applied fertilizer.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
See point 4.1
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
See point 4.1.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
The Netherlands uses a NFRV for dairy cattle manure (and other livestock that graze), for dairy farms
that have a mixture of mowing and grazing (45%) and for dairy farms with only mowing (NFRV: 60%).
The smaller value for grazing is because it known that the N excreted in urine and dung during
grazing is not efficiently used by grassland (high local N concentrations). Van Dijk et al. (2004)
estimated the N efficiency of N excreted during grazing at 0 – 15% at common N application rates in
the Netherlands (at lower N application rates the N efficiency of N excreted during grazing is about
20-25%).
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
Autumn application of manure has not been allowed in the Netherlands since 2010. In 2008 the NFRV
for autumn applied manure was less than for spring applied manure, e.g.:
• Pig slurry: 50% for autumn-applied and 60-65% for spring-applied.
• Solid pig manure: 30% for autumn-applied and 55% for spring-applied
6.2. Soil type
The NFRV for pig slurry is less for clay and peat (60%) than for sand and loess soils (70%). For cattle
slurry, there is no difference between soil types.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
The NFRV for cattle slurry is the same for arable land and only cut grassland (60%). However, for
farms with a mixture of cutting and grazing the NFRV is slower: 45%.
6.4. Animal feed
The NFRV is not dependent of the type of animal feed. Fixed values for NFRV are used.
97
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
In the Netherlands farmers are obliged to apply slurry with reduced- NH3 emission application
techniques. Therefore the NFRV are based on these techniques. NFRV for surface-applied slurry is
much less, because of greater NH3 emissions, but these NFRV are not part of the tables in the AP
and Fertilizer Act.
In the Netherlands it is prohibited to apply slurry and manure in autumn and winter. Therefore NFRV
values in the AP and Fertilizer Act are only based on application in (early) spring. In the time it was
allowed to apply manure in autumn, the NFRV for autumn application was lower than NFRV for spring
application of manure and slurry (because of the N losses in winter).
98
Poland
Overview (summary)
Action programmes for NVZs in Poland were prepared according to the Order of the Minister for the
Environment of 23 December 2002 on the detailed requirements to be satisfied by action programmes
to limit the discharge of nitrogen from agricultural sources (Journal of Laws of 2003 No 4, item 44)
and announced as Order of the Director of the Regional Water Management Board (RWMB).
There are currently 19 APs for NVZs prepared by local Regional Water Management Boards for the
period from May 2008 to April 2012. There were 21 NVZ for the period 01/05/2004-30/04/2008 but
some changes were made in 2008 (cancellations, area changes etc.).
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
There is no definition of manure-N efficiency in the Polish APs similar to the one outlined in this
report. The main reason is that APs contain general rules which specify how and when to use Ncontaining fertilizers to avoid N losses to environment and periods when fertilizer use is prohibited.
Farmers acting according to the recommendations given in the APs (recommendations to protect
water quality) may improve N-efficiency as well. The following definitions are given with respect to
activities related to the use of livestock manures:
-
Natural fertilizer - animal excreta and other fertilizers of organic origin such as composts from
plant residues.
Mineral fertilizer – inorganic fertilizers, produced by N fixation or the processing of mineral raw
materials.
Manure - waste products excreted by livestock or poultry or a mixture of this product and the
product resulting from the animal bedding.
Liquid manure - mixture of the urine of livestock, water and substances that derive from urine
as a result of natural metabolism.
Slurry - excreta of livestock (faeces and urine) without litter or with the addition of water.
Nitrogen compound emission - any N-containing substance except for gaseous molecular N2
emitted to environment.
Nitrogen balance - difference between input of N from natural, natural-mineral, mineral
fertilization, from plant debris (straw, leaves), from biologically fixed N, from rain, and the N
that is removed with the crop from the agricultural area expressed in kg N/ha.
Fertilization plan – fertilization prepared for fields with reference to crop demand for nutrients
and soil reserves.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
The term 'manure-N efficiency' is not explicitly referred to in the text. The AP refers to the fertilizer
effect of these types of fertilizers (livestock manure and other organic fertilizers) which must be
estimated taking account of the type and quantity of fertilizer, the application technique and the time
of application. The amount of livestock manure applied during the year may not exceed 170 kg of total
N per hectare of useable agricultural land. However, 'fertilizer equivalents' are provided which may be
considered equivalent to the use of NFRV and these are reported in section 3.1 below.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
The AP contains information on how the annual N content of livestock manures produced on an
agricultural holding can be calculated. Tables containing default values of manure production and N
content for every category of livestock are presented. For farm N balance preparation total N content
is used.
The N content of livestock manures produced by individual livestock types is calculated using a
simple formula:
99
Number of animals as an average per year x production of manure, liquid manure or slurry (from
tables attached) x N content (from tables attached)
Total N content of livestock manures produced on an agricultural holding is calculated by adding the
values obtained for the individual types of livestock and then dividing the value obtained by the
surface area of the useable agricultural land on the agricultural holding expressed in hectares.
2.2. How is this mineral-N measured?
The AP contains no direct information on how mineral-N is measured. Only calculations according to
the tabulated data are presented. There is no clear definition of mineral-N in the AP, nor is there any
definition in the fertilization act, in which the same terms are used (N or total N). The term mineral-N is
used in only one paragraph of the AP as a soil N content which should be measured before
fertilization for the calculation of fertilizer application. The terms “nitrogen content” or “total nitrogen
content” are most common in APs. These terms are equal in many cases. Generally terms used in
APs are not clear in many cases.
2.3. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
See 2.1 above. Most of APs contain information on how the annual N content in livestock manures
produced on an agricultural holding can be calculated. Tables containing default values of manure
production and N content for every category of livestock are presented.
There is no information on to gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems in
APs.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
The amount of N applied in livestock manure applied in the course of a year cannot exceed 170 kg of
total N per hectare of useable agricultural land, the APs reviewed contain information on how to
recalculate total N to “working nitrogen” i.e. the manure-N equal to N from mineral fertilizers using
“fertilizer equivalent”, i.e. NFRV. Fertilizer equivalents differ according to application time (season)
see table 26 below.
Working (active) N = total N x fertilizer equivalent
Table 26. Fertilizer equivalents according to application term (season) (Order of the Minister
for the Environment of 23 December 2002)
fertilizer type
manure (dung)
slurry
liquid manure
Fertilizer equivalents according to application term (season)
autumn
spring
0.3
0.3
0.5
0.6
0.5
0.6
Farmers in NVZs are obliged to prepare N balance and fertilization plans for fields. The N balance is
prepared from inputs of natural, organic, mineral-organic and mineral fertilizers, N from plant residues
(straw, leaves etc.), biologically-fixed N from leguminous plants and N in precipitation. The only output
is the N removed in the harvested crop. When planning mineral-N fertilization the farmer should take
into account the quantity of N left by previous legumes. Nitrogen losses during agricultural practices
are unavoidable due to oxidation, leaching to deeper layers and groundwater, hence the N balance
will not be equal to zero. There is an assumption that N balance surplus not exceeding 30 kg per ha
is safe for the environment, for example the AP for Płonia river valley (RWMBSzczecin) Chapter 9
paragraph 57.2.
100
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are presented in the AP. As mentioned above, no explicit information is enclosed of
mineral-N and nor is there any consideration of how the organic-N in manures may become available
or reference to following seasons/years N availability. While there is a difference in fertilizer
equivalence between autumn and spring there is no information how long applied manure-N will be
available to crops.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
There are specific rules for manure management but the main focus is to protect N compounds
leaching into the groundwater or washing into the surface water. There is no information about Nefficiency.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
There are limits on the application of fertilizers during the year (see point below). The quantity of all
organic manures applied to fields during the year is also limited. Limits are expressed in kg N per year
per hectare (all organic manures) or m3 per hectare per year (liquid organic fertilizers). The quantity of
N compounds applied in organic manures shall not exceed 170 kg N per ha on annual basis. Liquid
organic manures must be applied in such a way that the maximum annual dose should not exceed 45
m3/ha. In many cases the farmer is directed to Code of Good Agricultural Practice.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
There is a table in most APs (the 8 APs for Poznań RWMB and the 2 for Wrocław RWMB) which
contains periods when fertilizers are prohibited. Other APs contains the same regulations presented
as a simplified list.
Table 27. Closed periods for the application of N fertilizers in the Polish AP
Conditions
Livestock manure
liquid (slurry, liquid manure) solid (manure)
Mineral nitrogen fertilizers
Uncultivated soils
Cultivated soils without regard
to the weather and the
condition of the soil
Set aside land
Winter cereals
Spring cereals
Rape
all year
1 Dec - 28 Feb
all year
1 Dec - 28 Feb
all year
1 Oct - 28 Feb
1 Dec - 28 Feb
during growing season
during growing season
during growing season1)
1 Dec - 28 Feb
during growing season
during growing season
during growing season
Sugar beet and mangold
Potatoes
during growing season
during growing season1)
during growing season
during growing season
Maize
Leguminous plants
during growing season1)
during growing season
during growing season
during growing season
Perennial papilionaceae
Meadow
during growing season
1 Dec - 28 Feb
from 1 July to final
cut
1 Dec - 28 Feb
from 1 May to final grazing
during growing season
1 Dec - 28 Feb
from 1 Apr to final
cut
1 Dec - 28 Feb
from 1 Apr to final
grazing
1 Oct - 28 Feb
from 20 June until harvest
from 20 June until harvest
1 Sep – 30 Sep from 1 May
until harvest
from 1 June until harvest
from start of flowering until
harvest
from 1 July until harvest
throughout plant vegetation
period
all year
1 Jan - 28 Feb 15 July - 31
Dec
Pasture
1)
1 Jan - 28 Feb 15 Aug - 31
Dec
application is permitted during the spring growing season in the space between rows only where special soil
equipment is used: rape – until 15 Apr; potatoes – until 20 May; maize – until 30 June.
101
Table 27 is completed by a list of general activities which should be or should not be done to
decrease N losses such as:
- Fertilization must be carried out at optimum times and in doses adapted to the stage of development
of the plants being fertilized.
- Organic and mineral fertilizers must be applied evenly over the surface of the fields, taking into
account the possibility of split applications.
But it is also stated that the permitted dose of organic fertilizer applied in the course of a year may not
exceed a total of 170 kg of N per hectare of useable agricultural land and liquid organic fertilizers
must be applied in such a way that the maximum annual dose should not exceed 45 m3/ha.
Selected APs (RWMB Gdańsk) contain load limits based on total N from all types of fertilizers for
cultivated crops according to soil quality class. Limits are expressed as maximal doses in kg of pure N
per hectare for selected crops and soil types.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
As mentioned above all rules/proposals concerning manure management and application places in
APs focused on surface and groundwater protection but not directly N-efficiency.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Not in the APs
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
There is no such information in APs. Only the general rule that when deciding fertilizer applications for
pastures, account must be taken of the quantity and the form of excreta deposited by livestock.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
Season of application (spring or autumn) is taken under consideration when total N from natural
fertilizers is recalculated to “working nitrogen” which is equal to N from mineral fertilizers (see above
point 3).
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
There is no detailed description of any of the specific topics discussed above in the APs. Action
programmes contain only general information on which activities should be taken by farmers in
defined conditions according to weather, soil, and crop. Weather conditions are considered in APs as
seasonal variation (spring, autumn, winter) and rain precipitation and snow cover occurrence. High
soil moisture content limits fertilizer application, particularly on very light and light soils or highly
permeable soils. The least limitations are on fertilizer applications to permanent grasslands and longterm arable lands.
7. Record any regional differences in APs
There are no significant regional differences among APs for Poland. The main assumptions
concerning N management are similar. Most APs refer to CGAPs for more detailed information.
102
Portugal
Action Programme
This AP does not define manure-N efficiency and no reference values are provided. The AP is based
on the Good Agricultural Practices Code (2010) that gives general recommendations. The annexes to
this AP are only a kind of notebook where the farmer should record manure production together with
any manure imported or exported. The information related to manure production and characteristics
are provided in Annex 2 of the CGAP where manure production by animal type and the N content of
that manure are specified.
Overview
Although Portugal has 9 different NVZs around the country, there is only a common AP for all of them.
Manure characteristics are given in the CGAP which includes an Annex giving total N in manure for
different livestock types and manure management systems. Estimates of N availability after
volatilization, leaching and other losses are also provided. The Annex includes a specific equation for
the calculation of N fertilizer application taking account of losses by volatilization and runoff, biological
fixation etc.. However no references to the source of these figures are provided.
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
There are no definitions nor are there any estimates provided.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
These are not provided. It is established that this will be defined by competent authorities.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
No estimates of mineral N in manure are provided.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not described in the AP.
103
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Table 28. Estimates of N excretion by livestock type
Livestock type
unit
N
Cattle
Dairy cattle
Meat cattle
Heifer 1 year
Heifer 2 year
Heifer 3 year
1
1
1
1
1
105
84
26
42
63
Pigs
Fattening pig 25-100 kg
Sow with piglets
1
1
15
35
100
100
71
34
Sheep
Dairy sheep
Ram
1
1
16
21
Horses
1
22
Poultry
Laying hens
Meat chicken
104
Table 29. total N in livestock manure and available N
Housing type
Product
Cattle
Permament stabling
With grid
With platform for manure
slurry
manure/slurry
3
Amount (m or t)
3
N kg/m or kg/t
N disp
20
8 /10
4.5
5.5
2.5-3.4
1.52.5/3.3-4.3
18
18
5
4.2
2.0-3.0
1.7-2.5
11-ago
5 4.5
2.03.0/2.5-3.4
20
20
4.5
3.7
2.5-3.4
2.0-2.8
2
0.7/10
6
9/6
3.6-4.8
3.65.4/3.6-4.8
4
2
2
14
20
40
7.0-9.8
8.0-12.0
16-24
10,5
7/3.5
5
5/6.5
2.0-3.0
1.52.5/4.6-5.9
2.5
5.5
2.2-3.3
Semi-permanent stabling
Dairy cattle
Meat cattle
manure
manure
With beds but with manger in cement
manure/slurry
With grid and manger in cement
Dairy cattle
Meat cattle
slurry
slurry
Pigs= per loc
Floor grate in whole or in part
Semi-permanent with deep bedding and
feeding area with grills or paved
slurry
manure/slurry
Poultry
Batteries
Sloping grids or excrement pit
Deep bedding
manure
manure
manure
Horses
Semi=permanent stabling
Long mangers and beds
manure
manure/slurry
Sheep
Deep bedding
manure
N disp (fifth column), specifies the amount of N considered to be available after different losses,
volatilization , leaching and so on. The basis for these values is not given (nor bibliography nor
experimental data.)
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
This is not described in the AP.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
This is not described in the AP.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
This is not described in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
No further guidance is given other than that in the CGAP
105
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures
The CGAP specifies the following formula to calculate manure application.
F = N-((S+A+B+R)+(I+P+L))
where:
F = Fertilizer to be applied (kg/ha).
N = Crop requirements for the expected yield (kg/ha).
S = Soil N available (kg/ha).
A = N supplied by irrigation water (kg/ha).
B = Biological fixation (kg/ha).
R = N coming from preceding crops (kg/ha).
I = N immobilized by microorganisms (kg/ha).
P = N losses by volatilization (kg/ha).
L = N losses by runoff (kg/ha).
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
In general, the recommendations of the CGAP should be followed, but manure application is specified
in a more detailed way by each crop and vulnerable area.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
This is not described in the AP.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
The farmers must provide a Management Plan for Livestock Effluents used to apply N as well as the
field identification and the date in which that application was done.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
This is not described in the AP.
7. Record any regional differences in APs
There is only one AP for Portugal
106
Romania
Action Programme
Approval of the AP concerning the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from
agricultural sources. A new AP is due out in min-March 2011.
Overview
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Definitions used in AP:
•
•
•
•
•
Nitrogen compound: any N-containing substance except for gaseous molecular N2.
Fertilizer: any substance containing a N compound or N compounds utilized on land to
enhance growth of vegetation and vegetable mass.
Organic fertilizer: any fertilizer made of products of plant origin, manure from livestock or
poultry or sludge resulting from wastewater treatment.
Livestock manure: waste products excreted by livestock or poultry or a mixture of this product
and the product resulting from the animal bedding.
Nitrate pollution: the discharge, directly or indirectly, of N compounds from agricultural
sources into the groundwater or surface water, which may result in: hazards to human health,
harm to living resources and to aquatic ecosystems, interference with other uses of water and
deterioration of natural environment.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no definition of manure-N efficiency in the AP.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Mineral N is referred to: ‘the supply of nitrogen through the net mineralization of the reserves of
organic nitrogen in the soil’
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not defined.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
No account is given of gaseous-N losses.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
107
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
There is note that the ‘code of good agricultural practice’ should make provisions for ‘technologies
and procedures for the land application, including rate and uniformity of spreading, of both chemical
fertilizer and livestock manure, that will maintain nutrient losses to water at an acceptable level
(content of nitrates in groundwaters and surface waters cannot exceed the limits imposed by technical
regulations).’
The code of good agricultural practice is to be established by the Commission.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
There is a limit to the amount of livestock manure applied to the land each year, including by the
animals themselves (given as a specified rate per hectare).
The limitation of the land applications of fertilizers, consistent with good agricultural practice and
taking into account the characteristics of the vulnerable zone concerned, in particular:
•
•
1.
2.
3.
4.
The estimated - foreseeable N demand of the crops.
The N supply to the crops from the soil and from fertilization, accounted for according to:
The amount of N present in the soil as compared with the demand of the crops.
The supply of N through the net mineralization of the reserves of organic-N in the soil.
Supply of N compounds from land application of livestock manure.
Supply of N compounds from the application of chemical and other fertilizers.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Not covered in the AP.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Not covered in the AP.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Not covered in the AP.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
No allowance in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
108
Slovak Republic
Action Programme
199 DECREE of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Slovak Republic of 14 May 2008 laying down a
programme of agricultural activities in declared vulnerable areas.
Overview (summary)
The AP of the Slovak Republic contains a table with nutrient availability in % of manure N in the 1st
and 2nd year after manure application. It is not clearly described how this table is used, but it indicate
that the availability in both 1st and 2nd year is accounted for in fertilizer plans in Slovak Republic.
Liquid manure should be worked deeply into agricultural land. Mature, composted preferably crushed
manure from sheep may be evenly spread across the surface of permanent grassland. The
application of N fertilizers and liquid manure is prohibited from 15 November to 15 February.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
A table is included showing the “dynamics of nutrient availability” in % for N, P and K, given below.
This table is not clearly explained, but probably presents the N efficiency coefficients. It suggests that
the availability in both 1st and 2nd year is accounted for.
Table 30. Dynamics of Nutrient Availability (%) from the Slovak AP
Fertilizer
Livestock manure
Cattle slurry
Pig slurry
Poultry manure
Poultry droppings
dund water
Compost from livestock manure or biomass
Straw from pulses and oilseeds
Straw from cereals and maize
N
30
50
50
50
30
60
30
40
30
1st year
P
25
25
25
25
25
25
40
30
K
40
40
40
40
40
80
40
50
40
N
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
2nd year
P
20
10
10
10
20
20
20
20
K
35
20
20
20
35
35
30
30
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Table 31. Composition of organic fertilizer, as included in the Slovak AP
Fertilizer
Livestock manure
Cattle slurry
Pig slurry
Sheep manure
Horse manure
Poultry manure
Dung water and manure juice
Treated sewage sludge
Compost (organic and organic-mineral fertilizer)
Fermented residues from biofuel production
Nutrient content in kg.ť1 manure, treated sewage
sludge and organic and organic-mineral fertilizers
N
P
K
4.2
1.1
5
3
0.7
4.2
5
1.3
1.9
7.6
3
7
5.8
2.8
5
10
2.4
4.2
2.5
0
3.7
6
3.5
0.7
7
1.7
2.1
According to the results of analyses of the product applied
109
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
This is not indicated. The N efficiency coefficients (see point 1.2) are probably based on total N.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
N losses in housing and manure storage are accounted for 30% N loss for solid manure and 10% for
liquid manure (no litter).
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
Mineral-N is not directly accounted for.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
Mineral-N is not directly accounted for. The N efficiency factors are based on total-N.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
Both 1st and 2nd year availability are accounted (see point 1.2).
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
This is not clearly indicated, but the AP suggests that the total applied N has to be multiplied with the
1st year N availability coefficient and if applicable also the 2nd year N availability coefficient.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Liquid manure should be worked deeply into agricultural land.
Mature, composted and preferably crushed manure from sheep may be evenly spread across the
surface of permanent grassland.
The application of N fertilizers and liquid manure is prohibited from 15 November to 15 February.
Early spring fertilization of winter crops with N application rates up to 60 kg N/ha is permitted from 1
February if there are no restrictive land or weather conditions such as land saturated or temporarily
saturated with continuous surface water, agricultural land frozen to a depth of 8 cm or more, or land
covered by more than 5 cm of snow, regardless of the calendar restriction.
4.4. Are there recommendations/obligations for improvement of manure management and
application to increase N efficiency?
Liquid manure should be worked deeply into agricultural land. In the AP, there no additional
obligations (on top of the requirements from the Nitrates Directive; see point 4.3) to increase N
efficiency.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
Not indicated in the AP.
110
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
This is not covered in the AP.
111
Slovenia
Action Programme
The Protection of Waters against Pollution Caused by Nitrates from Agricultural Sources 2008.
Overview (summary)
Slovenia applies the AP to the entire country and this AP came into force in 2009.
The AP for Slovenia lays down the limit values for the input of N into or onto the soil from agricultural
sources and measures for reducing and preventing the pollution of waters by nitrates from agricultural
sources. The entire region of Slovenia has been designated as a nitrate vulnerable zone. All
agricultural holdings that carry out fertilization shall be bound to implement the provisions of the AP.
The AP for Slovenia does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency. The focus is on the reduction of
water pollution caused or induced by nitrates from agricultural sources and on the prevention of such
pollution. The AP mainly concentrates on the regulation of periods when manure may be applied, onfarm manure storage capacities and on maximum N application rates.
There are some regional differences within Slovenia. For the closing period, exemptions are made for
regions with sub-Mediterranean climate. There are a number of derogations allowed that are specified
in Annex 2. In addition to those derogations, the AP specifies the following: “Notwithstanding the two
preceding paragraphs, the ministry responsible for agriculture may, following a professionally
grounded initiative from the Agriculture and Forestry Chamber of Slovenia in the event of exceptional
weather conditions, allow fertilization with liquid manure and slurry in the period in which it is normally
prohibited”.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Manure-N efficiency is not referred to in the AP, however, tables are given to calculate the maximum
amount of N that may be applied to crops and to calculate the amount of N in livestock manures.
Definitions used in AP:
•
•
•
•
•
Input of nitrogen means the input of N into or onto the soil through fertilization using organic
or mineral fertilizers, through irrigation and with other substances that contain N. Input of N is
expressed in units of mass on a soil surface.
Annual input of nitrogen into the soil means the input of N into the soil over a 12-month
period.
Fertilizers mean substances that contain plant nutrients and that are intended to promote
plant growth. Fertilizers may be organic or mineral.
Organic fertilizers mean animal and other fertilizers of organic origin such as composts from
plant remains, sewage sludge, remains from processing in biogas plants, sludges, peat and
other fertilizers under the regulations on the limit values for the input of dangerous substances
into the soil.
Animal fertilizer means solid manure, slurry or liquid manure. Solid manure is the excreta
(faeces and urine) of livestock mixed with litter. Slurry means the excreta of livestock (faeces
and urine) of livestock without litter or with the addition of water in greater or lesser amounts.
Liquid manure means a mixture of the urine of livestock, water, substances that derive from
urine as a result of natural metabolism, and water drained from cesspits. Composted solid
manure and remains from processing in biogas plants shall also be classed as animal
fertilizer if only animal fertilizer is used in the production of biogas.
113
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Mineral fertilizer means fertilizers under the regulations on mineral fertilizers.
Green cover means natural and seeded grassland and fields with continuous plant cover.
Initial fertilization means fertilization prior to sowing or upon sowing or planting.
Additional fertilization means fertilization performed during the growing period of plants.
Livestock means livestock animals bred or reared for the production of food, wool, hide, fur or
for other commercial reasons.
Livestock unit (hereinafter: LU) is a unit for comparing species and categories of livestock and
is used for the evaluation of the extent of livestock rearing.
Winter crops mean agricultural plants, excluding grassland, that are sown in the autumn to
provide a winter crop.
Matured solid manure means manure that has on average been stored for at least two
months. If the storage facility for this manure is set apart so as to prevent mixing with fresh
manure, storage for two months shall be sufficient. If matured manure becomes mixed with
fresh manure during the storage period, it shall deemed that the manure has been stored for
an average of two months if at least four months have passed since the most recent emptying
of the cesspit.
Soil may be light, medium-heavy or heavy in texture. Light soil is sandy, sandy-loamy or
loamy-sandy. Medium-heavy soil is sandy-argillaceous-loamy, argillaceous-loamy, loamy,
silty-loamy or silty. Heavy soil is silty-clayey-loamy, silty-clayey, sandy-clayey or clayey.
The nitrogen balance means the difference between the input of N during fertilization and the
N that is removed with the crop from a certain agricultural area. It is expressed in kg N/ha.
Nitrogen compound means any N-containing substance except for gaseous molecular N2.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP?
There is no clear definition in the AP. The AP instead refers to “the amount of nitrogen in animal
fertilizers” and to the “maximum amount of N that may be applied per hectare and year”.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Record of nitrogen produced by animals on the holding
Records must be kept for the number and category of animals, as well as the N in the manure
produced by the animals. Default values are provided in the AP to enable an estimation of total-N.
These values cover livestock raised on the farm (the information provided is fairly detailed in terms of
the category of livestock), as well as values for animals brought onto the holding. Some allowance is
made for using approved software.
Sampling and analysis
The AP gives default values for manure-N. Article 13(4) of the AP allows the use of different values if
based on the analysis of samples of manure.
Livestock manure brought on to or sent off the holding
The AP says “Written evidence on the quantity of animal fertilizer received or passed on shall be
taken into account.”
An agricultural holding on which animal fertilizers are produced in quantities that exceed the permitted
annual input of N must ensure that: it passes surpluses of animal fertilizer on to other users of
agricultural land or it processes surpluses of animal fertilizer and sells them on the market in a variety
of forms or it disposes of surpluses of animal fertilizer in another way that accords with waste
management regulations.
An agricultural holding with more than 5 ha of agricultural land in use must keep records of organic
fertilizers purchased or otherwise obtained. The records must contain a list of the units of agricultural
land use that are fertilized using these fertilizers, and the quantity, time and type of fertilizers used.
114
Record Keeping
• A Record of N produced by animals on the holding is required if the daily production of animal
fertilizers exceeds 0.47 kg/ha (Article 5(5)).
• An agricultural holding on which there are more than five LUs and which at the same time
exceeds the annual load of 140 kg N/ha from animal fertilizers must keep records on the use
of animal fertilizers (Article 13(5) )
• The records on the use of mineral fertilizers and livestock manures must contain a list of the
units of agricultural land use that are fertilized using manures or mineral fertilizers, and the
quantity, time and type of fertilizers used.
• An agricultural holding with more than 5 ha of agricultural land in use must keep records of
organic fertilizers purchased or otherwise obtained. The records must contain a list of the
units of agricultural land use that are fertilized using these fertilizers, and the quantity, time
and type of fertilizers used.
• The AP regulates minimum storage capacities in order to ensure that the regulations on
application timing can be kept.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
The term mineral-N is not explicitly used in the AP. The term N available for crop uptake from
livestock manure is not used within the AP.
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Mineral-N is not measured. Default values for total-N content in livestock manures are given. The
table implies that housing and storage losses have been subtracted.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Default values for the total-N content of livestock manures are given. The table implies that housing
and storage losses have been subtracted. Housing and storage losses are not explicitly mentioned.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are directly or indirectly covered in the AP. No explicit mention is made of mineral-N
and nor is there any consideration of how the organic-N in manures may become available or
reference to longer-term N availability.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not explicitly covered in the AP.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
There are limits on the application of organic manure for the whole holding, and N limits are given per
hectare. The description of the limits offers room for improvement and clarity.
Article 5: The annual average input of N from livestock manures may not exceed 170 kg N/ha.
In the Annex, Table 4 gives limit values for the annual input of N into the soil. Different crops and
intensities are differentiated. The limit values are greater than the 170 kg N input from livestock
manures. It might be assumed that the difference may only be applied by mineral fertilizers.
115
Article 13: The total annual input of N in the fertilization of individual crops may not exceed the limit
values given in Table 4 of Annex 1 of this Decree. The annual input of N from organic fertilizers per
single unit of agricultural land use may not exceed 250 kg N/ha. Does this mean that 170 kg N/ha
may be applied from animal manures and the rest from other organic manure sources?
An agricultural holding on which animal fertilizers are produced in quantities that exceed the permitted
annual input of N must ensure that it passes surpluses of animal fertilizer on to other users of
agricultural land or it processes surpluses of animal fertilizer and sells them on the market in a variety
of forms or it disposes of surpluses of animal fertilizer in another way that accords with waste
management regulations.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
The Slovenian AP gives details on periods in which N-containing fertilizer may not be applied to
agricultural land. Fertilization using slurry and liquid manure shall be prohibited between 15 November
and 15 February on land without green cover, except on agricultural land without green cover in the
cadastral municipalities referred to in Annex 2 (sub-Mediterranean climate zone), where input is
prohibited between 1 December and 31 January. Fertilization using slurry and liquid manure shall be
prohibited between 1 December and 15 January on land with green cover, except on agricultural land
with green cover in the cadastral municipalities referred to in Annex 2, where input is not prohibited.
Fertilization using mineral fertilizers containing N shall be prohibited between 15 November and 15
February, unless this involves the fertilization of winter crops or the fertilization of agricultural plants in
greenhouses.
The Slovenian AP regulates:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Periods in which the input of N into or onto the soil is prohibited.
Fertilization on steeply sloping ground.
Fertilization on water-saturated, flooded, frozen or snow-covered ground.
Fertilization in the vicinity of watercourses.
The smallest permitted capacities of facilities for the storage of animal fertilizers, measures to
prevent the pollution of waters with leachates from the storage of solid manure.
Fertilization procedures, including the doses and homogeneity of consumption of mineral and
livestock manures that will maintain N losses to water at an acceptable level.
Restrictions on fertilization, where due regard must be paid to the characteristics of the
vulnerable zone to which the programme relates, particularly regarding the nutrient
requirements of plants, the properties of the soil (type, slope, etc.), the climatic
characteristics, rainfall and irrigation, the use of soil and agricultural practice, including crop
rotation.
Fertilization with slurry, liquid manure and mineral fertilizers is prohibited on flooded ground, watersaturated ground, snow-covered ground, frozen ground and water land. On steeply sloping ground,
fertilization using slurry and liquid manure shall be prohibited if there is a danger of the runoff of slurry
or liquid manure across the surface into surface waters. On agricultural land without green cover that
lies on steeply sloping ground where there is a danger of the runoff of slurry or liquid manure into
surface waters, the doses of liquid manure and slurry shall be divided into several parts such that an
individual dose does not exceed 80 kg N/ha.
Controlling how nitrogen fertilizer is spread
On sloping ground, application methods for slurry, liquid manure and mineral fertilizers are regulated
(the field must be bounded by transverse planted belts that prevent fertilizers from being washed
away; or there must be a planted belt of land at least 15 m wide between the field and the surface
water; or the field must be worked transversely to the slope; or the field must have green cover
throughout the winter).
116
For all agricultural fields, mineral and organic fertilizers must be equally spread across the surface
being fertilized. The uncontrolled spreading of fertilizers and fertilization outside the planned area of
fertilization must be prevented in transport and fertilization. Fertilization equipment must be regularly
maintained and may not have visible damage to elements that could affect the evenness of
distribution.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
No. However, the Slovenian AP contains a number of regulations on application techniques, timing of
application, nutrient contents in the manures, and manure storage. All these regulations serve a more
environmentally friendly manure management and are likely to improve N efficiency and to decrease
N losses via leaching and runoff
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
The Slovenian AP requires record keeping (for details: see “record keeping” above).
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No efficiency rates are given. The AP distinguishes N consumption by different crops depending on
their yield and N content in the manure depending on animal category.
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
No efficiency rates are given. The AP distinguishes N consumption by different crops depending on
their yield and N content in the manure depending on animal category. The AP lays out closed
periods for manure application. Municipalities situated in the Mediterranean areas are listed in Annex
2. They are assigned specific closed periods and storage capacity requirements are reduced by one
third.
117
Spain
Background to the AP
In the development of the present report several difficulties have been found. Spain has 17 different
regions with 17 different regional governments. The size and heterogeneity of Spain with different soil,
climate and crop characteristics and the administrative distribution of competencies, and the NVZ
declaration corresponding to different Regional Governments, mean that the interpretation of the
Nitrates Directive has not followed uniform criteria for all regions. The quantity and quality of available
information is very different from one Community to another and it is not centralized.
The APs developed by these regional governments take account of the climatic differences recorded
in Spain (i.e. from 1500 mm/year rainfall to 150 mm/year). These differences determine the
agriculture and livestock of each region and thus the AP for each region. Spain has 13 different APs
since 4 regions have not declared any vulnerable zones so they have not implemented any action
programme.
This approach will consider all the APs as a whole mentioning existing exceptions (if it is the case).
Overview
Spain has 13 different APs developed to take account of the climatic differences recorded in Spain.
These differences determine the agriculture and livestock of each region and, thus the AP for each
region. Most of the regions present N excretion and manure-N data, although most of them do not
provide the source of these data. Most of the APs do not consider N losses and, approximately, only
the half of the regions consider N availability in the years following manure application. The criteria
used are not uniform for all the regions.
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
Definition of manure-N efficiency
There is no definition of N efficiency in any of the APs. From the reading of these plans it could be
concluded that, in some of the regions, N efficiency is considered equal to the total N present in the
manure. In spite of this, some regions consider only a percentage of N as available in the first year so,
probably, N efficiency diminishes in the same proportion. For example, the AP of Castilla y Leon
considers 50% of total-N as available-N the first year and 10%/year in following years. Cataluña and
Murcia consider different mineralization rates, of 20 to 70%, depending on kind of manure. Aragon
and La Rioja, provide (from bibliography) total-N and NH3-N in different kinds of manures giving clues
about the N availability. The AP for Canarias establishes a range of N mineralization depending on
the manure from 18% to 70% for the first year and from 15 to 30% in the second year. Castilla La
Mancha provides ranges between 15 to 90% only for the first year and Valencia form 45 to 75% in the
first year and from 10 to 35% in the second year, depending on the type of manure. No consistent
criteria have been followed.
No other considerations are made.
Some of the regions present the following fertilizer classification that leads to different N
management:
•
Group 1: organic fertilizers (manures, poultry, swine..) where the N needs to be mineralized to
become available.
•
Group 2: ammoniac and ureic fertilizer, where the N needs to be nitrified before being taken
up by the crop. This group includes slow-release N fertilizers.
119
•
Group 3: Mineral-N easily available.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Only one AP provides the bibliographic reference for the data of manure-N composition and for
mineralization rates. The other regions do not provide any reference to the estimation of data
presented in the APs, neither for the N composition of different types of manure nor for the
mineralization rate. It is not possible to determine the sources of these values.
In spite of this, most of the APs recommend farmers to analyse soil and manure prior to developing
the fertilization plans and, although most of them provide tables with some estimates, in most of the
regions values analysed by a laboratory and fully documented are allowed.
Table 32. A=kg N / per place per year; B=liquid manure (m³/place/year); C= solid manure
(t/place/year); D=Density of manure (t/m³). Catalunya
Livestock type
Dairy cattle
Beef cattle
Pigs
Sheep
Goats
Rabbits
Horses
Poultry
Category
Cows
Bulls
Calves
Replacements
Growing cattle
Suckler cows
Calves
Replacements
Fatteners
Sows
Boars
Weaners (6-20 kg)
Gilts
Finishers (20-100 kg)
Ewes
Replacements
Lambs
Ewes
Replacements
Lambs
Does
Bucks
Replacements
Fatteners
Caged rabbit
Working horses
Donkey
A
80, 22
80, 22
5.7
40.0
28,97
53,15
7.7
40.0
28,97
15.0
18.0
1.19
8.5
7.25
9
4.5
3
7.2
3.6
2.4
1.418
1.773
0.886
0.443
4.30
63.8
B
14
9
0.4
5.5
3.6
9.0
0.5
5.5
3.6
5.1
6.12
0.41
2.5
2.15/1.65*
11
C
18
12
0.6
7.0
4.0
12.0
0.7
7.0
4.0
2.25
6.48
0.25
1.14
1
0.9
0.45
0.3
0.72
0.36
0.24
0.099
0.124
0.06
0.03
0.30
0.8
Breeding hens
Pullets
Broilers
0.5
0.35
0.22
0.02
0.014
0.01
0.6
0.6
0.5
Heavy layers
Breeding ducks
0.50
0.545
0.037
0.204
0.04
0.50
Fattening ducks
0.24
0.072
0.080
0.031
D
0.8
0.8
0.8
0.8
0.8
0.75
0.90
Replacement 0,08 0,007 0,5
Replacement 0,0873 0,0714
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Some regional APs specify the percentage of ammoniac-N for each kind of manure but does not
clarify how these data should be used.
120
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
No methodology and no references are provided.
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Only one of the AP mentions the bibliographic source of the manure production data and N content
data (Ziegler D., Heduit M., 1991).
Only one region (Andalucia) provides estimates of gaseous losses (from 30 to 50% of total N). Neither
measurement methodology nor references are provided. These losses are not considered in the other
regions.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
The availability of mineral-N in manures it is not clearly estimated in any APs, it is supposed to be fully
available within the first year except for those regions that provide a mineralization rate (see first
section) where the available-N is given by that rate.
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
As was described in the first section, the availability of organic-N is provided by most of the regional
APs (8 of 13 regions) but not the methodology used for this calculation, nor the bibliographic source,
nor are the origins of the data explained.
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
Five of 13 regions do not consider the mineralization rate. Five regions consider first year N
availability and 3 regions estimate following years but, again, no methodology is given and no data
source is provided.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
No specific treatments with this aim have been described in any AP.
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures
All the APs provide figures related to N uptake by the main crops of each region. These uptakes are
calculated for each specific vulnerable area within each region because if the crop characteristics and
agroclimatological conditions are different it is expected that N uptake by the crop will be different as
well. Some of the APs establish that the N application (any kind of N) should take into consideration
the N provided by soil organic matter, the N provided by irrigation water, the N uptake but this
calculation is not considered in all the APs.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
Apart from the general restriction for N application (inorganic or organic) (it is well known, avoid winter
months, adequate application to crop phenology, avoid frozen and flooded soils etc.). In some APs
(minority) there are special considerations for organic fertilizer. For example, avoiding manure
applications during crop development, allowing greater applications in specific seasons (one month
previous sowing. etc.).
121
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
In Spain, the aim of these APs it is not to improve N efficiency but to decrease environmental impacts.
But, in general, APs propose to incorporate liquid manure within 24-48 hours after application and
solid manure within 7 days after application. Another possibility is the utilization of injection
techniques, and most of them establish that the spreading technique should guarantee the
homogeneity of manure application. These approaches, by increasing the amounts of manure-N
conserved in the soil, should lead to some increase in manure-N efficiency.
Another recommendation is to split the N application during the year but this recommendation is
general for inorganic- and organic-N.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
The APs provide a sheet where the amount of manure produced should be detailed, the N
concentration in manure, identification of the areas and plots to be used as manure receptors, date
and amount of application and crop.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
Not specified in any AP.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
Not specified in any AP.
6.2. Soil type
Not specified in any AP.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
Not specified in any AP.
6.4. Animal feed
Only one region (Cataluña) provides a table that relates the protein in animal diet with the excreted N,
no other region provides data on this matter.
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
Not specified in any AP.
7. Record any regional differences in APs
The differences among regional APs have been mentioned in each heading, except where there is a
lack of information. These differences are due to the different farming systems: more livestock in the
north; arable crops in the centre; horticultural crops in the south. So the importance given to manure
in each region will depend on the relative weight of livestock in the region's agriculture.
122
Sweden
Action Programme
Decree SJVFS 2010:55: Rules amending the Swedish Board of Agriculture rules (SJVFS 2004:62) on
environmental concerns in agriculture as regards plant nutrients and the Swedish Board of Agriculture
general guidance (2005:1) on the storage and application of fertilizers, etc.
Overview
The AP of Sweden does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency. The AP instead refers to ‘The
nitrogen effect of these types of fertilizers (livestock manure and other organic fertilizers) must be
estimated taking account of the type and quantity of fertilizer, the application technique and the time
of application`. Explanation is included of which items to consider when calculating N application. The
term ‘plant accessible N’ is used and quantified as kg N per livestock place and year.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
The AP of Sweden does not explicitly refer to manure-N efficiency.
Definitions used in AP:
• Other organic fertilizers: Organic substances of biological origin, but not livestock manure,
which can be used as fertilizer.
• Livestock unit: The term livestock unit (LU) equals the maximum number of livestock which
may be kept per hectare of accessible application area. The number of livestock/ha for each
type of livestock is defined in 2010:55 annex 5.
• Solid fertilizers: Livestock manure and other organic fertilizers which can be piled to a height
of at least 1 metre without support.
• Slurry: Pumpable livestock manure with the exception of pure urine or urine mixed with other
liquids.
• The fertilization effect of previous crops’ grown: The amount of N that the previous crop
provides for the following crop.
• Easily accessible N: N in the form of nitrates, ammonium or urea.
• Incorporation: Mixing fertilizer into the ground so that the fertilizer is well-blended into the soil.
Incorporation can be carried out using soil tilling equipment, in which case the fertilizer must
be incorporated to a depth of at least 5 cm, or applied by injection.
1.1 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it possible
to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP
There is no clear definition in the AP. The AP instead refers to ‘The nitrogen effect of these types of
fertilizers (livestock manure and other organic fertilizers) must be estimated taking account of the type
and quantity of fertilizer, the application technique and the time of application`.
A longer explanation is included on which items to consider when calculating N application: In
vulnerable zones the application of N via fertilizers must be restricted so that it does not exceed the
quantity that may be considered necessary to best exploit the production capacity of the site for the
crop in question. As regards agricultural holdings, the need for fertilizer-N for the expected crop yield
must be calculated taking into account the livestock manure’s long-term effect, the fertilization effect,
any humus soil and the application of livestock manure and other organic fertilizers to the year’s crop.
When calculating the need for fertilizer for an individual crop, the point of departure shall be the
expected crop yield for the field in question. The calculation must be documented through a crop
management plan or equivalent. Fertilizer shall be applied on the basis of this calculation (SJVFS
2010:55).
123
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
Standard values of total-N content for different types of livestock manure (kg total-N per livestock
place and year) are available for excreted amounts, losses at storage, remaining after storage, losses
through spreading, remaining after spreading and plant accessible N (Annex 9, SJVFS 2010:55, from
2004:62).
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
The term mineral-N is not explicitly used in the AP. The term easily accessible N is used which is
defined as N in the form of nitrates, ammonium or urea. Standard values of N accessible to plants for
different types of livestock manure (kg total N per livestock place and year) are available for excreted
amounts, losses at storage, remaining after storage, losses through spreading, remaining after
spreading and plant accessible N (Annex 9, SJVFS 2010:55) (Table 33, below).
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
The N effect of livestock manure or other organic fertilizers can be assessed on the basis of current
standard values for the N effect or by analyzing the ammonium nitrate content of the fertilizer. The N
effect of slurry and urine can usefully be determined by analyzing the ammonium nitrate content
(SJVFS 2010:55).
2.4. How is the amount of manure-N production (excretion) estimated and how are the gaseous
losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted for?
Estimation of manure-N excretion
When calculating the quantity of manure-N excretion factors such as species on the basis of the type
of production, number of animals, diet and stocking density should be taken into account.
Standard values of manure-N excretion are available as kg total N per livestock place and year
(Annex 9 SJVFS 2010:55 from SJVFS 2004:62).
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
Availability of mineral-N is not a term used. Instead the term ‘plant accessible N’ is used and
quantified as kg N per livestock place and year. The plant accessible N after spreading and NH3
losses is referred to NH4-N (Annex 9, SJVFS 2009:82). When quantifying fertilizer dose (kg N/ha) for
the expected crop yield it is said that the planned application of livestock manure and other organic
fertilizers for the year’s crop must be estimated taking account of the type and quantity of fertilizer, the
application technique and the time of application (Annex 6, SJVFS 2009:82). No reference is given to
find standard values or other.
124
Table 33. Standard values for N excretion by livestock, N losses during housing and storage
and N remaining after storage as plant accessible N cited in the Swedish AP, kg N per
livestock place and year.
Livestock
Poultry
Slaughter hen
Deep stable manure, 7 rounds per year
Laying hens, coop 60 weeks.
Pullets, 0–16 weeks. Deep stable
manure, 2.2 rounds per year
Pigs
Slaughter pigs, 28.5-110 kg slurry, 3
rounds per year
Sows, slurry, 2.2 farrows per year
Sows, solid fertilizer, 2.2 farrows per year
Sows, urine, 2.2 farrows per year
Dry pregnant sows in hub 3 weeks,
slurry, 3.1 rounds per year
Sows in satellite, incl. piglets 3 weeks to
28.5 kg, slurry, 3.26 rounds per year
Cattle
Dairy cow 8 000 kg milk/year, slurry
Dairy cow 8 000 kg milk/year, solid
fertilizer
Dairy cow 8 000 kg milk/year, urine
Dairy cow 10 000 kg milk/year, slurry
Dairy cow 10 000 kg milk/year, solid
fertilizer
Dairy cow 10 000 kg milk/year, urine
Dairy cow 12 000 kg milk/year, slurry
Heifers, bullocks, 1–12 months, slurry
Bulls < 1 year, slurry
Heifers, bulls and bullocks > 1 year,
slurry
Suckler cows, total 12 months, deep
stable manure
Suckler cows, total 12 months, slurry
Horses
Horse, 500 kg, competition, solid fertilizer
Horse, 500 kg, recreation, solid fertilizer
Horse, pony (300 kg), solid fertilizer
Sheep
Sheep + 1.8 lambs, deep stable manure
Pullets, 0–16 weeks. Deep stable
manure, 2.2 rounds per year
Excretion
Losses during
Remaining after
housing and
spreading
storage
kg N per livestock place and year
Plant
accessible N
0.28
0.52
0.60
0.22
0.05
0.09
0.14
0.08
0.23
0.43
0.46
0.14
0.13
0.20
0.22
0.05
11
1.9
9.1
5
36
21
15
22
6.3
6
4
3.6
29.7
15
11
18.4
17
7
5
10
30
5
25
15
117
71
12
17
115
54
47
24
46
139
85
11
14
20
35
125
65
14
52
25
54
145
22
34
47
13
14
1.5
41
131
20.5
29
39
17
52
9
14
20
69
38
14
63
53
27
61
48
33
33.8
27
18.3
19
16
13
14
0.22
7.3
0.13
2.7
0.05
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
Standard values are available on the long-term N effect (kg N/ha) of livestock manure after at least 30
years’ livestock farming with the stated number of livestock (number livestock places/ha) (Annex 11
SJVFS 2010:55) (Table 34).
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
Estimations based on standard values of the long-term N effect can be included after at least 30
years’ livestock farming, see 3.2. Estimations of short-term N effects consider one crop yield, see 3.1.
125
Table 34. Long-term nitrogen effect of livestock manure after at least 30 years’ livestock
farming with the stated number of livestock
kg
N/ha
4
8
12
16
20
24
Number livestock places/ha to achieve the long-term N effect, in kg N per ha, stated in the far left
column in this table
Dairy cow
Calf,
Other cattle
Sow in
Finishing pig Laying hen
Broilers
1-6 months
production
0.2
1.1
0.5
0.7
2.7
40
80
0.4
2.3
1.1
1.3
5.3
80
160
0.6
3.4
1.6
2.0
8.0
120
240
0.8
4.6
2.1
2.7
10.7
160
320
1.0
5.7
2.7
3.3
13.3
200
400
1.2
6.8
3.2
4.0
16.0
240
480
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated?
Restrictions on the amount of applied livestock manure are based on P to avoid a surplus application
of N due to a nutrient imbalance. Restrictions on the amount of livestock manure or other organic
fertilizers may, for five years, not be applied in quantities greater than the equivalent of 22 kg total P
per hectare of application area per year, calculated as an average for the holding’s entire application
area per year during this period. The five-year period is made up of five consecutive calendar years.
In vulnerable zones livestock manure must not be applied in quantities greater than the equivalent of
170 kg of total N per hectare of application area per year. The amount of livestock manure to be
applied must be calculated as an average of the holding’s entire application area (SJVFS 2010:55).
Restrictions also include:
• If P content of the livestock manure has been determined using a balance calculation, these
calculations should be documented and kept for at least six years.
• Arable land included in the crop rotation should be sampled regularly to determine the P
content of the soil.
• Basic manuring with P should be avoided if at all possible.
• On soil of P-AL III class and above no more P should be added than that removed with the
crop.
• If extra P has been added in any one year, the P fertilizer applied to subsequent crop should
be reduced accordingly.
• Agricultural holdings which take delivery or remove livestock manure must record the type of
fertilizer, the quantity, the amount of total P to which the fertilizer is equivalent or information
on type and number of livestock that produced the manure. The records must be kept and be
accessible for at least six years (SJVFS 2009:XX).
• Livestock manure and other organic fertilizers must be spread over the application area over
a five-year period.
In vulnerable zones, a maximum of 60 kg of easily accessible N per hectare may be applied before
autumn sowing of oilseed. Within the same areas, a maximum of 40 kg of easily accessible N per
hectare may be applied before other autumn-sown crop. Applied easily accessible N should be
adjusted for the needs of the autumn-sown crop. (SJVFS 2010:55) (SJVFS 2010:14).
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
When quantifying fertilizer dose (kg N/ha) for the expected crop yield it is said to consider:
The potential crop yield must be assessed from the historical yield or on the basis of soil conditions
(soil type, land conditions), climate, and possibility of irrigation, land use, cultural methods and the
normal time of sowing.
Adjust fertilizer dose (kg N/ha) by deducting the following:
• Net mineralization of organic-N reserves in the soil through;
o The livestock manure’s long-term effect.
o The fertilization effect of previous crops grown (account is also taken of the N
fertilization effect of green manures and catch crops, Annex 10 SJVFS 2010:55).
126
o
•
•
Humus soil (organogenic soil).
Planned application of livestock manure and other organic fertilizers for the year’s crop (the N
fertilization effect of these types of fertilizer must be estimated taking account of the type and
quantity of fertilizer, the application technique and the time of application).
The requirement of mineral fertilizer N or of other additional fertilizer with N for the year.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures.
Provisions applicable throughout the country
Mineral urea-based fertilizer spread on bare soil must be incorporated or ploughed under within four
hours of application (SJVFS 2010:55).
Provisions applicable outside vulnerable zones
Livestock manure and other organic fertilizers applied from 1 December to 28 February must be
ploughed under within 12 hours (SJVFS 2010:55).
Fertilizers should not be applied to snow-covered soil.
Provisions applicable to vulnerable zones
It is prohibited to apply fertilizer to waterlogged or flooded soil, to snow-covered soil and to frozen soil
(SJVFS 2010:55).
Fertilizers must not be applied to farmland closer than 2 m to the edge of a watercourse or lake.
Fertilizers must not be applied to farmland adjacent to watercourses or lakes or where the slope of the
land towards the water exceeds 10% (10/100). However, the ban provided for in the first sentence
shall not apply to the application of mineral fertilizers to growing crops.
It is also prohibited to apply mineral fertilizer or livestock manure or other organic fertilizer from 1
November to 28 February, unless specified otherwise, see no. 8.
In the counties of Blekinge, Skåne and Halland, livestock manure and other organic fertilizers may be
applied from 1 August to 31 October only to growing crops, but not catch crops, or before autumn
sowing in the case of autumn oeliferous crops. On clayey soil, however, application to crops other
than oleiferous crops is also permitted before autumn sowing.
In the counties of Blekinge, Skåne and Halland, livestock manure applied to bare soil must be
incorporated within four hours. However, solid fertilizer applied to bare soil from 20 October to 30
November must be ploughed under within four hours (SJVFS 2010:55)
In the counties of Blekinge, Skåne and Halland one of the following methods must be used when
spreading slurry on growing crops:
• Bandspreading or another similar technique, through which the fertilizer is applied directly to
the ground under the plant cover.
• Using a fertilizer injection applicator or other similar technique through which the fertilizer is
applied directly into the ground.
• Techniques in which 1 part fertilizer is diluted with at least half a part water prior to
application, or
• Techniques in which application is followed by irrigation with at least 10 mm water. Irrigation
must commence no later than four hours and be finished no more than twelve hours after the
start of application. If it rains the rainfall may be deducted from the minimum 10 mm
requirement.
In the vulnerable coastal zones, the vulnerable zones in the inland areas of the counties of Västra
Götaland and Östergötland, the vulnerable zones around Lakes Hjälmaren and Mälaren, in the county
of Gotland and on Öland, livestock manure and other organic fertilizers may be applied from 1 August
to 31 October only to growing crops, but not catch crops, or before autumn sowing. Solid fertilizer,
127
except solid fertilizer from poultry, may be applied from 10 October to 30 November. Solid fertilizer
applied to bare soil in from 10 October to 30 November must be ploughed under within twelve hours.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
Yes, the regulation SJVFS 2010:55 also includes general guidance on specific chapters and sections
on environmental concerns in agriculture as regards plant nutrients. The content of easily accessible
N in manure can be estimated by standard figures in Annex 10 or be determined by analysing the
ammonium nitrate content (SJVFS 2010:55). The N effect of slurry and urine can usefully be
determined by analysing the ammonium nitrate content.
The values in the tables in Annex 11 can be used to determine the fertilization effect of previous
crops. In order to take account of the long-term N effect of regular application of livestock manure,
the values in the tables in Annex 12 can be used as a basis for application in open crop cultivation.
(SJVFS 2010:55)
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
See 4.1 and 4.2
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
Nothing in the regulation SJVFS 2010:55 about considering applied-N excreted during grazing in the
concept of ‘manure-N efficiency’.
6. Record how these estimates are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
General guidance on Chapter 2, Section 3 of the Environmental Code recommend spring application
(SJVFS 2010:55):
‘Fertilizers should be applied at a time when the crop absorbs as much as possible of the added
nutrients. Fertilizers which contain a large percentage of easily accessible N (e.g. slurry or urine)
should not be applied during the autumn or before sowing winter cereals. Nor should such fertilizers
be applied during the autumn before spring sowing in southern and central Sweden. Liquid manure
and urine should, if possible, be applied to growing cereals or before sowing in the spring. Application
before the sowing of winter oil crops may also be an acceptable alternative.’
6.2. Soil type
General guidance on Chapter 2, Section 3 of the Environmental Code recommend regularly soil
sampling: ‘Arable land included in the crop rotation should be sampled regularly to determine the
phosphorus content of the soil’.
In the counties of Blekinge, Skåne and Halland, livestock manure and other organic fertilizers may be
applied from 1 August to 31 October only to growing crops, but not catch crops, or before autumn
sowing in the case of autumn oleiferous crops. A distinction is made according to soil type, however,
since on clay soils application to crops other than oleiferous crops is also permitted before autumn
sowing.
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
Calculation of N applied in livestock manures and the requirement for N fertilizer are recommended
for each crop. It is also recommended to adjust the amounts of applied manure-N to take account of
residual N in soil from preceding crops The crops cultivated and fertilizer applied should be
documented for the entire crop rotation and this documentation be kept for at least six years. With the
exception of what is stated in the section of soil type, application of solid fertilizer is allowed both in
growing crops (with the exception of catch crops) and on bare soil from 1 October to 31 October.
Solid fertilizer from poultry may not be applied from 1 October to 31 October on bare land.
128
6.4. Animal feed
In general guidance on Section 8 of the Swedish Board of Agriculture rules (SJVFS 2004:62) on
environmental concerns in agriculture as regards plant nutrients, Chapter 26, Section 19 of the
Environmental Code and Section 6 of Ordinance (1998:901) on self-inspection by operators it is said
that:
‘Balance calculations for P excreted in manure from the animals on the holding should be based on
the conditions of the individual activity. If the composition of the fodder or other factors affecting
production on the holding change, a new balance calculation should be made.’
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production)
SJVFS 2010:55 contains regulations and general guidance on national level and for vulnerable zones
concerning time and method of application, see 4.3.
129
UK (England, Scotland and Wales)
Action Programme
• The Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations 2008 (England).
• Action Programme for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (Scotland) Regulations 2008.
• Action Programme for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2009.
• The Nitrate Pollution Prevention (Wales) Regulations 2008; The Nitrate Pollution Prevention
(Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2010.
Overview (summary)
For the United Kingdom (UK), the APs from England, Scotland and Wales were analysed. Northern
Ireland, although part of the UK, was analysed as a separate AP.
The concept is used of 'manure-N readily available to the crop in the season of application (RAN)'.
Proportions of manure-N that are readily available are given. There are some differences according to
time of manure application.
The calculation method and underpinning information for established concentrations of RAN are not
explicitly given in the AP. Nor is there any reference in the AP to either Defra booklet RB209, Fertilizer
Recommendations for Agricultural and Horticultural Crops, or to the PLANET software from which
provide further information on RAN and the factors that influence both total N in manure and RAN.
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Manure-N efficiency is not referred to in the AP, however, figures are given to calculate the amount of
N readily available to the crop (RAN).
Definitions used in AP:
• Crop requirement: the amount of N fertilizer in kilograms (‘kg’) which it is reasonable to apply to
land in any year having regard to the foreseeable N requirement of the crop growing or to be
grown on the land and the N supply to the crop from the soil and from other sources, including
any previous applications of livestock and other organic manures.
• Livestock manure: waste products excreted by livestock or a mixture of litter and waste products
excreted by livestock, even in processed form.
• Nitrogen fertilizer: any substance containing one or more N compounds used on land to enhance
growth of vegetation and includes organic manure.
• Organic manure: any N fertilizer derived from animal, plant or human sources and includes
livestock manure.
• Organic manure with high available N content: organic manure in which more than 30% of the
total N content of the manure will be released in the year in which it is spread on land (such as
cattle and pig slurry, poultry manure and liquid digested sludge.
• Slurry: excreta produced by livestock (other than poultry) while in a yard or building (including any
bedding, rainwater or washings mixed with it) that has a consistency that allows it to be pumped
or discharged by gravity (in the case of excreta separated into its liquid and solid fractions, the
slurry is the liquid fraction).
• Spreading: includes application to the surface of the land, injection into the land or mixing with the
surface layers of the land but does not include the direct deposit of excreta on to land by animals.
• Soil N supply: amount of N in the soil that is likely to be available for uptake by the crop during the
growing season.
• Organic manure with high readily-available N: organic manure in which more than 30% of the
total-N content is available to the crop at the time of spreading.
• Closed period: dates during which organic manure with high RAN may not be spread on land.
131
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it possible
to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP (so it must be clear if the
MS defines manure-N efficiency in the AP or our consortium identifies manure-N efficiency,
based on the way it is used in the AP)
There is no clear definition in the APs. However, both the England and the Wales APs refer to 'the
amount of nitrogen in the manure that is available for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is
spread.'
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
There are limits set for the total amount of N that can be spread to land. An occupier must ensure that
the total amount of N from manufactured fertilizer, and N available for crop uptake from livestock
manure in the growing season in which it is spread does not exceed a given limit in any twelve-month
period. Standard values are given for the calculation of maximum N application to crops and the
maximum quantities of organic manure with high RAN content which may be applied during closed
periods. These values cover livestock raised on the farm (the information provided is fairly detailed in
terms of the category of livestock), as well as values for animals brought onto the holding. Some
allowance is made for using approved software.
In Scotland, the maximum N which can be applied to that crop for that area is calculated by using
appropriate figures for:–
(a) the crop grown immediately previously;
(b) soil type; and
(c) any other relevant adjustments allowed, if selected for inclusion.
There is a requirement to calculate and record the amount of N produced by animals on the holding
each year. The number and category (as given in the Regulations) of animals on the holding during
the previous calendar year, and the number of days that each animal spent on the holding must be
recorded in order to calculate the amount of N in the manure produced by the animals on the holding
during that year (using standard figures provided). Figures are given for daily manure produced by
each animal (litres) and daily N produced by each animal (grams). Note: there are exceptions for
derogations.
Livestock manure brought on to or sent off the holding
For livestock manure brought on to or sent off the holding, the type and amount of manure must be
recorded. Standard figures are provided for calculating the N content, alternatively, this must be
analysed.
Sampling and analysis
There is a prescribed method for sampling and analysis of manure. There is information given for both
slurry and solid manures, and the methodology covers the number of samples that should be taken,
as well as the method for collecting these samples before they are sent for laboratory analysis.
Spreading nitrogen fertilizer
Within one week of spreading organic manure the occupier must record, amongst other things, the
quantity of organic manure spread, the type of organic manure, the total N content and the amount of
N that was available to the crop. However, no information is provided on how to calculate these.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Mineral-N is not explicitly defined in the APs, however, crop available N is implied. In the APs,
reference is made to:
• The N available for crop uptake from livestock manure (England).
132
•
•
Calculate the percentage N available to the next crop following FYM applications for all crops
and soil types (Scotland).
The amount of N in the soil that is likely to be available for crop uptake from livestock manure
in the growing season in which it is spread (Wales).
Once the total amount of N within manure is known (either by using the standard values or via
sampling and analysis), percentages are given in the Regulations to establish the amount of N in the
manure that is available for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is spread, effectively
assessing manure-N efficiency (crop available N).
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
See above. After establishing the total amount of N in the manure, percentages are given which
establish the amount of N in the manure that is available for crop uptake in the growing season in
which it is spread, which effectively assesses manure-N efficiency. This links to Q3.1. This is detailed
in Table 35.
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
Losses are not accounted for in the APs.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
The percentage N content taken up by a crop is given in a standard table, given below as Table 35.
Note that percentages increase from applications after the period of greatest leaching risk.
Table 35. The available percentage of nitrogen available for crop uptake in the growing season
in which it is spread.
Amount of nitrogen available for crop uptake in the growing
season in which it is spread
Type of livestock manure
Until 1st January year x
From 1st January year x
Cattle slurry
20 %
35 %
Pig slurry
25 %
45 %
Poultry manure
20 %
30 %
Other livestock manure
10 %
10 %
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
None of these are explicitly covered in the APs. As indicated in section 2 above, no explicit mention is
made of mineral-N and nor is there any consideration of how the organic-N in manures may become
available or reference to longer-term N availability.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
This is not explicitly covered in the APs for England and Scotland.
For Wales, the spreading of N is covered in the AP, but this is more from a water pollution perspective
than trying to improve manure-N efficiency. However, using low spreading trajectory equipment will
decrease losses of N as NH3.
Spreading of slurry must use spreading equipment with a low spreading trajectory (below 4 metres
from the ground). Spreading equipment with a spreading trajectory of more than 4 metres from the
ground can be used on land that has a low runoff risk where such equipment can achieve an average
slurry application rate of not more than 2 millimetres per hour when it is operating continuously.
133
Nitrogen fertilizer must be spread as accurately as possible.
When applying organic manure to the surface of bare soil or stubble, it must be incorporated into the
soil. Poultry manure must be incorporated as soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest.
Slurry and liquid digested sewage sludge must be incorporated as soon as practicable, and within 24
hours at the latest, unless it was applied in separated bands. Any other organic manure must be
incorporated into the soil as soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest, if the land is within
50 metres of surface water and slopes in such a way that there may be runoff to that water.
Incorporating manure into the soil as soon as possible will reduce NH3 losses to the atmosphere..
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan? i.e. what is required to
reduce fertilizer-N application to take account of the crop-available N in manures.
A fertilizer and manure management plan must be prepared each year. The purpose of the plan is to
assess the crop requirement for N fertilizer for each crop on each field each year and to establish the
quantities of livestock manure produced and safe methods of collection, storage and land-application.
The plan must include a calculation of the quantity of N fertilizer required in relation to each crop on
the farm and no N fertilizer can be applied to any crop in any year before this calculation is complete.
Spreading of N fertilizer must be planned. The amount of N in the soil that is likely to be available for
uptake by the crop during the growing season and the optimum amount of N that should be spread on
the crop (taking into account the amount of nitrogen available from the soil N supply) must be
calculated and detailed in a N plan.
For the area planted or intended to be planted the plan must record:
• The soil type.
• The previous crop (if the previous crop was grass, whether it was managed by cutting or
• grazing).
• The soil N supply (including the method used to calculate this).
• The anticipated month that the crop will be planted.
• The anticipated yield (if arable).
• The optimum amount of N that should be spread on the crop, taking into account the amount
of N available from the soil N supply.
While this information is not meant to be recoded for manure-N efficiency purposes, it can be used to
calculate efficiency.
There are limits on the application of organic manure for the whole holding, and N limits are given per
hectare. However, it is not clear why these limits are given – there is no specific mention of taking
mineral N into account when applying fertilizer N. These limits are fixed limits and it would make
sense that if they were set to take fertilizer N into account, the limits would be given as a relative
value (such as a percentage), rather than a fixed limit.
Under the Farm Waste Management Plan in RB209, guidance is given to take manure-N efficiency in
to account to use manures and fertilizer together. It recommends that the manure application should
not supply more than 50–60% of the total N requirement of the crop, with inorganic fertilizer used to
make up the difference. This approach will minimise the potential impact of variations in manure N
supply on crop yields and quality.
The Code of Good Agricultural Practice (Defra, 2009) provides guidance on how to prepare a Manure
Management Plan. This includes guidance on how, where and at what rates to apply solid manures,
slurry and dirty water.
See ‘Exceptions for organic holdings’ in Section 4.3 below. It is recognised that organic farms will not
be applying fertilizer N, and allowance is given for extra manure-N to be applied.
134
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
RB209 recommends applying manures in the spring to make best use of the N content.
Controlling how nitrogen fertilizer is spread
Slurry must be spread using spreading equipment with a low spreading trajectory, that is, below 4
metres from the ground, and spreading N manure must be done as accurately as possible, consistent
with good agricultural practice. Spreading with splash plates results in the available N in the slurry
being lost to the atmosphere as NH3.
When applying organic manure to the surface of bare soil or stubble (other than soil that has been
sown), it must be incorporated into the soil.
Poultry manure must be incorporated as soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest.
Slurry and liquid digested sewage sludge (liquid from the treatment of sewage sludge by anaerobic
digestion) must be incorporated as soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest, unless it
was applied in separated bands.
Any other organic manure (other than organic manure spread as a mulch on sandy soil) must be
incorporated as soon as practicable, and within 24 hours at the latest, if the land is within 50 metres of
surface water and slopes in such a way that there may be runoff to that water.
While not explicitly stated to improve increase N efficiency, high trajectory splash plates cannot be
used for slurry application.
Organic manure with high RAN may not be spread on land during the following dates, all inclusive
(this is known as the closed period):
The closed period
Table 36. Closed periods for manure spreading in the AP for England
Soil type
Grassland
Tillage land
Sandy or shallow
soil
All other soils
1st September to 31st December
Exemption: can be spread between 1st
August and 15th September if the crop is
sown on or before 15th September
15th October to 15th January
1st August to 31st December
1st October to 15th January
There are exemptions for crops sown before 15 September. Organic manure with high available N
content may be applied up to and including 15th September if the land is sown with a cereal crop
before that date, and up to and including 30th September if the land is sown with oilseed rape, a catch
crop or a cover crop before that date.
Organic manure with high available-N content may only be applied to bare ground and stubble during
the months of July, August and September if the land to which it is applied is drilled with a crop within
6 weeks of the first application.
Closed periods – quantitative restrictions
Organic manure with high available-N content must not be applied to land in excess of the maximum
quantities set in relation to the closed during the following periods:
4 weeks prior to the first day on which regulation 20 prohibits the application of such manure; and
from the day following the last day of that prohibition until 14th February, both dates inclusive.
135
Exemptions for organic holdings
An occupier of a holding registered as an organic producer with a body registered with the Advisory
Committee on Organic Standards may spread organic manure with high readily available N at any
time on permitted crops for the closed period (listed in Schedule 3 of the Regulations), or other crops
in accordance with written advice from a person who is a member of the Fertilizer Advisers
Certification and Training Scheme, provided that each hectare on which organic manure is spread
does not receive more than 150 kg total N between the start of the closed period and the end of
February.
Restrictions following the closed period
From the end of the closed period until the end of February, the maximum amount of slurry that may
be spread at any one time is 50 cubic metres per hectare and the maximum amount of poultry
manure that may be spread at any one time is 8 tonnes per hectare; and there must be at least three
weeks between each spreading.
In any year, the total N in livestock manure applied to the utilisable agricultural land area of the whole
farm, whether directly by an animal or by spreading, must not exceed 170 kg per hectare (‘ha’) of that
area. Where a derogation has been granted, the total annual amount of N in livestock manure from
grazing livestock applied to the derogated farm, whether directly by an animal or by spreading, must
not exceed 250 kg multiplied by the area of the derogated farm in hectares.
Minimum period between applications of livestock manure
A period of at least 3 weeks must elapse between each completed application of livestock
manure to an area on the farm.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
There is some information given on the management of fertilizer-N to take into account manure-N.
Although this is not directly related to the calculation of manure-N, it does provide some useful
information and is therefore included below:
Planning the spreading of nitrogen fertilizer
An occupier of a holding who intends to spread N fertilizer must calculate the amount of N in the soil
that is likely to be available for uptake by the crop during the growing season. This is known as the
soil N supply.
The occupier must also calculate the optimum amount of N that should be spread on the crop, taking
into account the amount of N available from the soil N supply, and produce a plan for the spreading of
N fertilizer for that growing season.
In the case of any crop other than permanent grassland, the occupier must do this before spreading
any N fertilizer for the first time for the purpose of fertilizing a crop planted or intended to be planted.
In the case of permanent grassland the occupier must do this each year beginning 1st January before
the first spreading of N fertilizer.
The plan must record, amongst other things, the soil N supply calculated and the method used to
establish this figure. It must also record the anticipated month that the crop will be planted, the
anticipated yield (if arable), and the optimum amount of N that should be spread on the crop, taking
into account the amount of N available from the soil N supply.
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Before spreading organic manure, the occupier must on each occasion calculate the amount of N
from that manure that is likely to be available for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is
spread.
136
Before spreading the organic manure, the occupier must on each occasion calculate the amount of N
from that manure that is likely to be available for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is
spread:
• the area on which the organic manure will be spread
• the quantity of organic manure to be spread
• the planned date for spreading (month)
• the type of organic manure
• the total N content of the organic manure
• the amount of N likely to be available from the manure intended to be spread for crop uptake
in the growing season in which it is spread
Within one week of spreading organic manure the occupier must record:
• the area on which organic manure is spread
• the quantity of organic manure spread
• the date or dates
• the methods of spreading
• the type of organic manure
• the total N content
• the amount of N that was available to the crop
Records must be kept showing for each field on the farm–
• the area of the field;
• the soil type in the field;
• the quantity of each type of N fertilizer applied in relation to each crop;
• the type of any crop grown and the date the crop was sown;
• the date of application of each type of N fertilizer applied in relation to each crop;
• the number of livestock kept on the farm, their species and type, and the length of time
kept on the farm;
• the quantity of each type of livestock manure (whether farmyard manure, slurry, poultry
manure, or other livestock manure) produced on the farm and the N content of such
manure which is retained and used on the farm;
• the quantity and N content of each type of livestock manure (whether farmyard
manure, slurry, poultry manure, or other livestock manure ) moved off the farm, the date
of that movement and the name and address of the person receiving it;
• the quantity and N content of each type of organic manure moved onto the farm,
• the date of that movement and the name and address of the supplier;
The percentage N available to the next crop following manure applications is given, listing differences
between the application type, and the season. This gives the incorporation time into the soil. This is
given in Table 3 of the Annex.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
This is not covered in the AP.
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
Table 37 above below presents the interaction between the season of application and crop-available
N.
RB209 recommends applying manures in the spring to make best use of the N content.
137
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
There are exceptions for organic holdings for spreading manure with high readily available N (more
than 30% of total N) (see Section 4.3 above). Table 3 of the Annex gives the percentage N available
to the next crop following manure applications, listing differences between the application type, and
the season. This gives the incorporation time into the soil, and gives differences between soil types
and the season of application.
138
UK-Northern Ireland
Action Programme
• The Nitrates Action Programme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006
• The Nitrates Action Programme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008
• The Nitrates Action Programme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009
• The Nitrates Action Programme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010
Overview
Manure N efficiency is not explicitly defined in the AP, however, a definition is given for ‘available
nitrogen’. This is crop available N. Standard tables are provided of the total N from imported livestock
manure (slurry and solid) and the amount of N available to a crop from organic manure in the year of
application of that fertilizer (percentage).
Review
1. Examine the AP for definition and treatment of 'manure-N efficiency'
1.1 Evaluate the ways in which manure-N efficiency is defined or treated in the APs (see above
definitions).
Manure N efficiency is not explicitly defined in the AP, however, a definition is given for ‘available
nitrogen’. This is crop available N.
Standard tables are given to calculate:
• The total N from imported livestock manure (slurry and solid).
• The amount of N available to a crop from organic manure in the year of application of that
fertilizer (percentage).
Definitions used in AP:
•
Available N: forms of N that can be taken up by a crop immediately or within a short period.
•
Crop requirement: the amount of N fertilizer which is reasonable to apply to land in any year
for the purpose of promoting the growth of the crop having regard to the foreseeable N supply
to the crop from the soil and from other sources, including any previous applications of
livestock and other organic manure and any chemical fertilizers estimated as described in the
fertilizer technical standards and in the Regulations.
•
Farmyard manure: a mixture of bedding material and animal excreta in solid form arising from
the housing of cattle, sheep and other livestock, excluding poultry manure, but including spent
mushroom compost and the stackable solids fraction from mechanical separation of slurry
excluding pig slurry.
•
Livestock manure: waste products excreted by livestock, or a mixture of litter and waste
products excreted by livestock, even in processed form.
•
Nitrogen fertilizer: any substance, including chemical fertilizer, containing a N compound
utilized on land to enhance growth of vegetation.
•
Organic manure: means livestock manure, and N fertilizer, not being livestock manure or
chemical fertilizer, derived from organic matter, and includes sewage sludge, residues from
fish farms and other organic wastes.
•
Slurry: means excreta produced by livestock whilst in a yard or building or a mixture of such
excreta with bedding, rainwater, seepage, washings or any other extraneous material from a
building or yard used by livestock or in which livestock manure is stored or any other organic
139
manure or any combination of these, of a consistency that allows it to be pumped or
discharged by gravity at any stage in the handling process and includes dirty water that is
stored with slurry or mixed with slurry.
•
Soil fertility status: the soil reserves available for uptake by the next crop estimated as
described in the fertilizer technical standards.
•
Total N: sum of all N forms including nitrate, nitrite, NH3 and organic N.
1.2 Is there a clear definition of the N efficiency of manure given in the AP? If not, is it possible
to give the definition based on how the N efficiency is used in the AP
Reference is made to ‘crop requirement’. This is defined as the amount of N fertilizer which is
reasonable to apply to land in any year for the purpose of promoting the growth of the crop having
regard to the foreseeable N supply to the crop from the soil and from other sources, including any
previous applications of livestock and other organic manure and any chemical fertilizers estimated.
2. Identify methods used to measure mineral (available) N in manures
2.1. How is total-N measured / estimated?
There are standard tables to calculate the total N within slurry and solid manure. Nitrogen excretion
rates are also given in the Schedule (Table 1) which report annual N production in kilograms. The
total N from livestock manure from animals kept on the holding is calculated using standard figures
given in the Regulations (given is Annual N Production in kilograms). The total N from imported
livestock manures is also calculated using standard figures given in the Regulations.
There are restrictions on the amount of N that can be applied - the maximum land application of solid
organic manure shall be 50 tonnes per hectare at any one time and a period of at least 3 weeks must
be left between such land applications. There are exceptions for derogations.
2.2. What constitutes mineral-N?
Crop requirement N, 'available N'. The N availability in livestock manures and chemical fertilizers is
given in a Standard table (Table 6). These percentages are based on the year of application.
Nitrogen availability is greatest for pig manure (50%) and least for poultry litter and FYM (both 30%).
2.3. How is this mineral-N measured?
Standard percentages are given for the amount of N available to a crop from organic manure in the
year of its application
2.4. How are the gaseous losses in housing systems and manure storage systems accounted
for?
These are not accounted for in the AP.
3. Estimate how the rates at which organic manures become available are estimated
3.1. How is availability of the mineral-N in manures estimated?
3.2. How is availability of the organic-N in manures estimated?
3.3. And for how many seasons/years? (short-term and long-term N availability)
Not covered in the AP.
4. Record the approach to manure management and application
4.1. How is manure managed / treated to improve manure-N efficiency?
140
4.2. How is the N efficiency of manure accounted for in a fertilizer plan?
A fertilizer plan must be kept which includes:
• The number of livestock.
• A description of livestock housing and manure storage systems, including the volume of
livestock manure storage available.
• The amount of N from livestock manure produced.
• The holding’s foreseeable N crop requirement.
• The quantity of each type of organic manure moved on or off the holding.
• The results of soil analysis relating to N soil status if available.
• The amount of N from N fertilizers applied in each area of the holding under the same
cropping regime and soil type.
• The amount of N from other organic manure, excluding livestock.
• Manures, applied in each area of the holding under the same cropping regime and soil type.
This will allow calculations of manure N efficiency.
4.3. How and when is manure applied? What are the closed periods for manure application and
are there any restrictions on the methods used to apply manures?
Application of organic manure, excluding FYM and dirty water, to any land, is not permitted between
15 October in any year and 31 January of the following year.
Slurry can only be spread by spreading close to the ground using inverted splash plate spreading,
bandspreading, trailing hose, trailing shoe, soil injection or soil incorporation methods. This is to
prevent water pollution, but will also help to reduce losses of N to the atmosphere as NH3.
4.4. Are there proposals for improvement of manure management and application to increase
N efficiency?
4.5. Additional information to be recorded during the year
Records must be kept for:
• The total agricultural area including the size and location of each field.
• The cropping regimes and their individual areas.
• The soil N supply index for cropping areas other than grassland as estimated in accordance
with the fertilizer technical standards.
• The number of livestock kept on the holding, their species and type, and the length of time for
which they were kept on the holding.
• The quantity of each type of N fertilizer moved on or off the holding, the amount of each type
of N fertilizer applied, the certified N content of the chemical fertilizer, the total N content per
tonne of other organic manures, the date of that movement and, in the case of organic
manure, the name and address of the consignee, the consignor and any third party
transporter of the manure.
5. Determine what allowance, if any, is made for N excreted during grazing
While no allowance is specifically made, the manure excreted during grazing is mentioned: the
quantity of N fertilizer added to land other than grassland both by land application and by the animals
themselves each year shall not exceed the crop requirements for N.
There is a standard table giving the N excretion rate for livestock. This table takes into account the
age of the livestock as well as occupancy percentage for the year.
141
6. Record the efficiency rates in function of environmental and climatic conditions and
agricultural practices are affected by:
6.1. Season of application
6.2. Soil type
6.3. Cropping (land use, e.g. arable vs. grassland)
6.4. Animal feed
6.5. Local agricultural practices (time and method of application, differences between
conventional and organic production).
142