This National Maximum Nitrates Derogation Stocking Rate Limits Map combines the ‘Water Quality Review Implementation Map for 2024’ where maximum stocking rate of 220 kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare for nitrates derogation holdings in these areas was applied in 2024, with additional areas, where the stocking rate limit of 220 kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare for nitrates derogation holdings in these areas was applied from December 2025. These additional areas were the outcome of the 5th Nitrates Action Programme review, introduced as an amendment (S.I. No 42 of 2025) to the Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters (GAP) Regulations (S.I No 113 of 2022, as amended). If availing of a nitrates derogation, adhering to the maximum stocking rate limits within these areas is set out in the new GAP Regulations (S.I. No 588 of 2025, as amended). The additional areas from December 2025 are where the EPA (Environment Protection Agency) have identified a need for nitrate reduction measures as a priority to improve water but that were not considered under the European Commission’s criteria for the two-year review of water quality that took place in 2023, i.e. areas that are not within the Water Quality Review Implementation Map for 2024.
