Open consultation Public Consultation on the proposed Nutrients Action Programme for 2027 - 2030

Summary

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a public consultation on the proposed Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027–2030.

Documents

• Consultation on the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027–2030 Adobe PDF (7 MB)
• NAP Stakeholder Task and Finish Group Terms of Reference Adobe PDF (138 KB)
• NAP Stakeholder Task and Finish Group Final Report and Summary of Proposed Measures Adobe PDF (1 MB)
• Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Environmental Report - NAP 2027-2030 Adobe PDF (7 MB)
• Report to Inform Appropriate Assessment (RIAA) - NAP 2027-2030 Adobe PDF (4 MB)
• Rural Needs Impact Assessment (RNIA) NAP 2027 - 2030 Adobe PDF (348 KB)
• Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) – NAP 2027-2030 Adobe PDF (455 KB)
• Equality & Disability Duties Screening NAP 2027 - 2030 Adobe PDF (682 KB)

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Consultation description

The consultation seeks views on the proposed Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027–2030, which will bring forward a range of measures aimed at improving water quality across Northern Ireland by reducing nutrient losses from agricultural activities, while supporting a sustainable and productive agri-food sector.

The proposed measures set out in this consultation have been developed through the work of the Nutrients Action Programme Stakeholder Task and Finish Group (NAPSTFG). Established following the 2025 consultation, the group brought together representatives from the farming sector, agri-food industry, environmental organisations and the Department to review evidence, consider stakeholder feedback and co-design revised proposals. This process has helped to ensure that the measures are evidence-based, legally compliant and practical to implement at farm level

The proposed programme is intended to support the achievement of environmental objectives under the Water Framework Directive Regulations and to address ongoing water quality challenges.

The programme includes measures relating to nutrient management planning, the storage and application of fertilisers and organic manures, and requirements to minimise nutrient run-off to the water courses. A number of additional measures are also proposed to strengthen existing provisions and improve overall environmental outcomes while supporting farm sustainability. Supporting documents which informed the work of the NAPSTFG are available at: Nutrients Action Programme for 2027 - 2030 - Supporting Documents.