Pollution warning to Mayo farmers when spreading slurry

Inland Fisheries Ireland has appealed to Mayo farmers to take all precautionary measures to help prevent water pollution when spreading slurry in 2025.

Farmers in Mayo have been permitted to spread slurry since Thursday, January 16 and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) have reminded farmers of the negative effects it can have on the county's water systems.

Livestock manure, organic fertilisers, silage effluent and soiled water from agricultural practices are considered highly damaging substances that can cause severe water quality issues.

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“Poor slurry spreading practices can ultimately wipe out local fish populations and ruin their habitats,” said Barry Fox Deputy CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

“With the slurry season commencing for 2025, IFI is appealing to farmers to be very mindful of their local rivers, lakes, streams and coastlines, and to heed associated regulations.
“Ireland’s fisheries resource is a significant part of the rural economy. Agricultural communities play a pivotal role in the responsible stewardship of our environment - now, and for future generations,” he added.

IFI also urged farmers to work according to all best practices, including the maintenance of the minimum distance between slurry spreading areas and watercourses and to plan ahead, noting poor weather conditions before spreading on fields.

Farmers are also asked to seek advice where necessary from Teagasc, their Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme advisor, local authority, or the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
IFI stated they will continue to encourage the public to report instances of water pollution, habitat destruction, fish kills, or illegal fishing, to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.