Order No. RD09-1042/01.10.2024 approving the Rules for Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters from Pollution with Nitrates from Agricultural Sources.

This Ministerial Order approves updated rules on good agricultural practice for the period 2024-2027. The document defines the scope of application of these rules, including cases in which they apply on a voluntary or mandatory basis to agricultural producers. The Rules establish periods during which the application of nitrogen-containing fertilizers is not permitted, with defined calendar ranges depending on geographic areas and types of agricultural land. They also set conditions under which fertilization is prohibited, including under unsuitable soil and weather conditions. Additional provisions regulate fertilization on sloped land and define minimum distances from surface water bodies where fertilization is restricted or not allowed.
The document sets requirements for the storage of manure and related waste, including conditions for the construction, capacity, and location of storage facilities. These include the use of impermeable materials, minimum storage durations, and specified distances from water bodies. Separate provisions apply to different types of manure and to silage and associated wastewater.
The Rules define conditions for the application of organic and mineral fertilizers, including limits on quantities applied per unit area per year. Fertilization rates are to be determined based on soil analysis and expert recommendations. Agricultural producers are required to maintain records of fertilization activities, including information on the type, quantity, timing, and basis for application, as well as the results of soil analyses.