Reducing nitrogen leaching also has the effect of reducing nitrous oxide emissions into the atmosphere, and planting trees can make a big difference too.
The National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, issued by the Government in 2011, requires all regional councils to set quality limits on all ground and surface water bodies within their region by December 2030.
Winter crops
Practices to reduce nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions:
- Urine nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions can be reduced through appropriate paddock selection, grazing time and grazing regime.
- Fertiliser nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions can be reduced through the use of crop calculators to gauge need and precision application to ensure appropriate application and timing.
- Winter fallow nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions can be reduced through the use of a cover crop or late harvests.
Grazing cows and urine patches
Practices to reduce nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions:
- Using off-paddock facilities strategically to capture the nitrogen from dung and urine - for more information on stand-off facilities click here.
- Grazing cows off-paddock in the autumn months before winter rains have the chance to flush nitrogen downwards. This step is one of the most effective in reducing nitrogen leaching.
Before changes are made to the farm system, or investment in off-paddock facilities, the situation should be thoroughly analysed to ensure it will be a viable solution, allowing the farm to remain profitable.
Fertiliser application
Practices to reduce nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions:
- Avoid direct leaching and nitrous oxide emissions by not applying in winter or to waterlogged soils.
- Soil test to ensure other nutrients are not limiting.
- Optimise the response rate and pasture utilisation.
Riparian planting
Planting fenced riparian areas adds further benefit to the environment as the plants sequester carbon dioxide, and function like a sieve, helping to filter out sediment and nutrients before they enter waterways. Riparian planting also help prevent land erosion and increase the habitat for native wildlife.
