Whole Farm Nitrogen and Phosphorus Balances River Axe

Background and Purpose

The Authority requires a competent supplier to calculate and interpret whole farm nitrogen and phosphorus balances. The work will identify whether each farm has a nutrient surplus or deficit, the main nutrient inputs and outputs contributing to that result, and practical actions to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce losses to water and air.

The service is intended to improve understanding of nutrient flows into and out of the farm, support better nutrient use, reduce avoidable farm costs and reduce environmental risks from nitrate leaching, phosphorus loss through runoff and soil erosion, and emissions of ammonia and nitrous oxide.

Objectives

• Quantify nitrogen and phosphorus entering and leaving each participating farm.
• Calculate annual balances for the whole farm and per farmed hectare.
• Identify the main causes of any surplus or deficit and assess the related risk of nutrient loss to water and air.
• Provide clear, prioritised and farm-specific recommendations, including likely costs and benefits where evidence allows.
• Provide quality-assured farm reports and a consolidated summary suitable for use by the Authority.