National Designation of Nutrient-Contaminated areas

The Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality has designated so-called nutrient-contaminated areas in our region. 

What does that mean?

Designating Nutrient-Contaminated Areas means that:

  • Agricultural businesses within a Nutrient-Contaminated Area must take additional steps to improve water quality.
  • The designation of NC areas is based on the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water. 

Data on the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water

The ministry based its designation on a national model calculation by Piet Groenendijk et al. from 2016. The most recent nutrient source analysis conducted by Wageningen University on behalf of Noorderzijlvest was not used. 

The study by Wageningen University demonstrates that the agricultural share of phosphorus in the designated areas in the summer half-year average (which is decisive for the WFD) is lower than or equal to the 19% used by the minister. We cannot say with certainty that the areas would not have been designated as NC areas, but for the sake of the process, it is more appropriate to base our assessment on new data.

Improving water quality in our region

Improving water quality in our region is an important task. Water quality is the basis for a well-functioning ecosystem. If we do not work to improve water quality, society as a whole will feel the effects.

We know there are farmers in our region who are working hard to improve water quality. We regret that the imposition of a general measure also affects farmers who are already doing their very best. 

Decision by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality 

However, the designation of Nutrient-Contaminated Areas is a decision made by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. As water authority, we are able to exert a minor influence by providing the most recent figures. 

Report by Wageningen University commissioned by Noorderzijlvest 

The report prepared by Wageningen University can be found on the Wageningen University & Research (WUR) website. Source analysis of nutrients in Noorderzijlvest water bodies: Analysis for surface water bodies to derive feasible WFD targets (research.wur.nl)