Briefing update for Lincolnshire farmers as DEFRA tightens up muck spreading rules

Tue 15 Jul 2025

DEFRA has sharpened its guidelines on muck and slurry spreading, confirming that autumn muck and slurry spreading may continue within the Farming Rules for Water, but with stricter restrictions and requirements.

There is a necessity to demonstrate a clear and immediate crop and soil nutrient need rather than overall requirement. 

Enforcement of individual cases remains a matter for the Environment Agency. They will generally prioritise giving advice and guidance before taking enforcement action, however, it is important that farmers take practical steps now to avoid future consequences.
 
The following requirements are now mandatory in every field:

1. Provide comprehensive nutrient management plans (NMP) informed by: RB209, farm software such as PLANET supported by a suitably qualified professional, such as a FACTS qualified agronomist. 
2. The plans will need to include:
   a. Soil sampling and analysis (P, K, Mg, pH) completed within the last five years.
   b. Nutrient content of organic manure prior to application identified through testing or suitable nutrient management tools.
   c. Evidence of crop requirement based on current growth stage and uptake capacity.
   d. Evidence of how the risk of diffuse pollution will be minimised.
   e. Details on application rate calculations. 

Advice going forward:

• Keep Nutrient Management Plans up to date. 
• Ensure routine testing is in place for soil sampling and organic manure. 
• Review storage and management of organic manure checking capacity requirements.
• Address clean water management to reduce capacity requirements for dirty water. 
• Maintain detailed records by a qualified advisor. 
• Be aware of grant funding opportunities including the current Capital Grants.

For any queries please give me a call on 07930 592030

Abi Saunders
Agri Business Advisor
[email protected]