On February 7, 2023. The Government Decree of January 31, 2023 was published in the Official Gazette. On the “Program of measures to reduce water pollution by nitrates from agricultural sources and prevent further pollution”. The regulations went into effect the day after publication.
The nitrate program implements the provisions of the directive, which aims to reduce the impact of the agricultural sector on the state of surface and groundwater.
We described the updates introduced by the new regulation in the previous issue of “Water Issues,” in an article titled. “Changes to the Nitrate Program.”
It is worth recalling that among the key changes is the possibility of early spring fertilization of crops (from the first to the last day of February). The spring date is contingent on the maintenance of an average daily temperature over the next 5 days above 3°C for autumn-sown crops, permanent and perennial crops and permanent grassland, and 5°C for other crops. Whether the temperature conditions have been met can be checked on the IMGW-PIB – Agrometeo portal, under Criterion of earlier fertilization date.
Fertilization plans
Important information for farmers is that nitrogen fertilization plans or calculations of maximum nitrogen doses developed or made under the provisions of the 2020 nitrate program. remain valid until December 31, 2023.
Time to adjust farms
In the case of commencement of construction, reconstruction or purchase of places for storage of natural fertilizers – calculations of capacity or area made in accordance with the existing nitrate program shall remain valid. With that said, on December 31, 2024. remains the cut-off date for adjusting the area or capacity of owned places for storing natural fertilizers by livestock operators with less than or equal to 210 LU.