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Risk Assessment for Manure and Slurry (RAMS) Map

A Risk Assesment for Manure and Slurry (RAMS) map is now a legal requirement for the application of organic fertilisers.  It is important that not only the landowner has a copy of the map, but the contractor who is applying the organic manure must have a copy whilst spreading.

A RAMS map gives an easy to read visual guide to areas of high risk of pollution when spreading organic fertilisers such as slurry, manures, sewage sludge and digestate.   The map will identify no-spread zones, usually around watercourses, lochs, ponds, uncapped wells or boreholes and wetlands as well as high risk areas which might include shallow soil or land that is steeply sloping.  The map should also identify areas used for any temporary field heaps.

A Risk Assessment for Manures and Slurry map infographic showing the fields surrounding a farm steading in traffic light colours to highlight the high risk areas for pollution from the spreading of slurries, manures and fertilisers.

Risk Assessment for Manures and Slurries (RAMS): An Overview

Now a requirement for farmers and landowners during a land inspection, a RAMS map, standing for Risk Assessment for Manures and Slurries is a tool to promote the responsible, effective spreading of agricultural byproducts to land, in such a way that the potential for diffuse or point source pollution is mitigated. In this video, James Orr, Agricultural Consultant for SAC Consulting Ltd provides an overview of the RAMS process and why preventing pollution and making best use of farm nutrients is in your best interest.  Watch here>>

Find out how to draw up your RAMS map

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