Open meeting for North Wales farmers

Farmers in North East Wales who are likely to be affected by the Assembly Government's proposals to widen Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) are invited to an open meeting on 22 November 2007.

The meeting will be held at the Lecture Theatre of Llysfasi College, Ruthin from 1pm-3pm and attendees will have an opportunity to discuss proposals on the re-designation of these zones with representatives from the Welsh Assembly Government and the Environment Agency.

NFU Cymru Chairman for Clwyd Ken Bellis said, "A review of NVZ designations is required every four years, and the current proposal is to increase the designated areas in Wales to 3% of the land. The proposed changes include limiting the amount of nitrogen applied to land; controlling where, when and how nitrogen is applied; provisions for the secure storage of manure, cover crops and record keeping.

I would urge any farmers who are likely to be affected by the proposals to attend this meeting so they can discuss their concerns with the Assembly and Environment Agency officials."