Slurry - Hartland Nature Society

Guidance on slurry (organic manure) regulations and how to report breaches

Slurry must NOT be applied under the following conditions

At all during ‘winter’ (unless exceptional circumstances can be proven) – December, January, February.
On waterlogged, flooded or snow-covered soil
During periods of rain or just before heavy rain is forecast
When the soil has been frozen for more than 12 hours in the past 24 hours
Within 50m of a spring, well or borehole
Within 10m of inland freshwaters or coastal waters
- within 6m if spreading using precision spreading equipment including
  - a trailing hose or shoe band spreader
  - a shallow injector (no deeper than 10cm)
  - a dribble bar applicator
Using sludgigators or upward facing splash plates because they create a high-trajectory spray that increases ammonia emissions, causes nutrient drift, and risks water pollution.
On steeply sloping land (generally an incline of 15% to 20% or more) if there is a high risk of water pollution reaching surface waters or drains.
Where other risk factors mean there’s a significant risk of pollution

Transportation of slurry – look out for leaking equipment

Slurry is classed as a Category 2 Animal By-Product, as such it should be transported in covered, sealed leak-proof containers

If you witness any potential breaches

Take a photo (make sure location setting is on so GPS is activated for photo).
Make a note of the location, date and time.
Report it on the Environment Agency Incident hotline – call 0800 80 70 60, or online – https://www.gov.uk/report-water-pollution