Nitrate Vulnerable Zones Flashcards
What is nitrate contamination? What are some causes?
Areas of land where nitrate concentration in water is too high or at risk of becoming too high.
Can be caused by fertilisers, animal manure, industrial waste and sewage/waste water
Algal blooms is an impact of increased nitrate concentration. What effect does this have?
Causes eutrophication, creating hypoxic conditions, suffocating water ecosystems and producing toxins harmful to wildlife and humans. Causes a loss of biodiversity.
What is a nitrate vulnerable zone?
Designated areas at risk of agricultural nitrate pollution; these zones are established to protect water quality by implementing regulations for farming practices to reduce nitrate runoff.
What are some regulations and rules for nitrate vulnerable zones?
Nitrate fertiliser amount limits, manure application limits and storage requirements, soil testing and fertiliser planning, record keeping and buffer zones.
What is the intention of basic payment schemes regarding NVZs?
Lands used for agriculture can receive payments for meeting specific environmental standards and following environmental rules regarding the management of fertilisers and pesticides and protecting water, soil and biodiversity.
What governmental body is responsible for monitoring and enforcing NVZs?
The Environment Agency .
