Protecting water quality is an issue "for all farmers, not just those that have the largest or more intensive farms", the Environmental Protection Agency
TheEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designed “pollution impact potential maps” for phosphorus and nitrogen.
Across the country, 1,007 waterbodies are affected by excess phosphorus (P), while 535 are impacted by excess nitrogen (N), including 18 drinking water supplies.
Some 2,400km or under 2% of river banks have been identified as needing pathway interception measures for P.
Some 6,900km2 of highest-risk critical source areas were also outlined where nitrate losses from farms are highest in the south and southeast.
Key to preventing loss, according to Jenny Deakin of the EPA, who was speaking at a Teagasc Signpost Series webinar, is using “the right measure in the right place” and these maps will help to target zones vulnerable to loss.
04 May 2021
Type Event Proceeding
On the latest episode of The Signpost Series, which took place on Friday, 30th April, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd is joined by Jenny Deakin, EPA to discuss water quality – national problems, local solutions.
Jenny s presentation was followed by a questions and answers session, facilitated by Pat Murphy, Head of Teagasc Environment KT Programme.
View presentation below