New NVZ Designations – What Farmers Need to Know

Defra has released its latest review of Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs), with updated designations now in effect. NVZs are areas where water is particularly vulnerable to nitrate pollution from agricultural sources. According to the government website around 55% of England’s land is currently designated.

Farmers with land in NVZs must follow rules under the Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations 2015, including:

Limits on nitrogen use from fertilisers and manures.
Closed periods for spreading organic manures.
Manure storage requirements to prevent runoff.
Detailed record keeping of nutrient applications.

These rules aim to reduce nitrate leaching and protect water quality. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, with inspections carried out by the Rural Payments Agency. For tenanted land, the responsibilities around compliance may depend on the terms of the tenancy agreement, so early communication between landlords and tenants is essential.

If land has been newly designated, a letter will be sent from Defra. The owner has 28 days to appeal, providing evidence that the land does not drain into polluted water or that the water should not be classified as such.

The 2025 review also prioritises NVZ areas for funding under schemes like the Slurry Infrastructure Grant, helping farmers meet compliance requirements.