Farmers more aware of benefits of spreading slurries and manures
Farmers are now more aware of the benefits of spreading manures and slurries at a time when crops can utilise the nutrients.
This is mainly as a result of increased fertiliser costs and the cost of spreading in unsuitable conditions both through wasted fuel and time as well as a hefty fine if caught.
It is not just slurries and manures spread on the field which causes diffuse pollution; as more farmers move to later grazing or out- wintering of cattle, attention to the selection of fields and positioning of the feeders within the fields can reduce the potential for a pollution incident to occur.
For more information on this story, pick up a copy of this week’s Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.