Proposals to revise areas where farmers have to comply with the Nitrates Action Programme have been put to consultation.

The areas most at risk of surface water and groundwater being polluted through nitrates are designated as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs).

The plans by the Scottish Government reflect the advances being made in assessing the impact and are based on the findings of a 2013 review into NVZs.

The findings include:


• Reducing the area currently designated as NVZs in Scotland by 24%

• Designating one new area on the edge of the existing Strathmore/Fife area

• Proposing one new NVZ area in the Stranraer Lowland, with further consultation required.

In addition, the proposals also seek to improve the maintenance and quality of Scotland's water environment.

Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Protecting Scotland's water environment is important to us all, and farming plays a key role in that protection.

"The Scottish Government recognises and supports the role the farming sector is already playing in reducing diffuse pollution impacts across the country.

"It's important that we get the views of those within the industry on these proposals, but where we can benefit farmers I would like to see this happen as soon as possible."

(JP/MH)