Blog & Insights
Practical knowledge
from the field.
Guidance, updates and expert commentary from the AR Enviro team — covering AD, nutrient management, and agricultural consultancy.
How to Read a Soil Analysis: pH, P, K and Mg Explained
What the numbers on your soil report mean — P, K and Mg index bands, RB209 and Northern Ireland targets, optimum pH and lime, and how to take a good sample.
Stocking Rates and Livestock Units Explained: NI and England
The official livestock unit values for Northern Ireland and England, how to work out LU per hectare, scheme stocking limits, and how it relates to the 170 kg N/ha limit.
Livestock Nitrogen Loading: The 170 kg N/ha Limit Explained
How the 170 kg N/ha manure limit works in Northern Ireland and England’s NVZs — standard figures per animal, a worked example, the 250 kg derogation and your options if you are over.
How Much Slurry Storage Do I Need? NI and England Rules Explained
The 22-week NI rule and 5-month NVZ rule, how much slurry dairy and beef cattle produce, and how to allow for rainfall, washings and freeboard.
Digital Waste Tracking Northern Ireland: What Changes in January 2027
Digital waste tracking becomes mandatory in Northern Ireland in January 2027. Who is in scope, what NI receiving sites must report, how to choose digital waste tracking software, and a checklist to get ready.
What Is a Nutrient Management Plan? A Plain-English Guide
A nutrient management plan records how you will use organic materials and fertilisers on your farm to meet crop needs without causing pollution. Here is what goes in one, who needs one, and the seven caveats that catch farmers out.
Digital Waste Tracking 2026: What AD Plants and Farms Need to Know
Digital waste tracking is live for permitted sites in England and Wales and mandatory in Northern Ireland and Scotland from January 2027. Here is who is in scope and what changes operationally for AD plants and farms.
Exporting Chicken Litter from NI to Great Britain: What You Need to Know
A practical guide to the regulatory requirements for exporting poultry litter across the Irish Sea — covering the 2025 High Court ruling, ABP documentation, NVZ rules at destination, and HPAI restrictions.
Waste Transfer Notes: A Complete Guide for Farms and AD Plants
Everything you need to know about Waste Transfer Notes in Northern Ireland — who needs one, how to complete Parts A–E, season tickets, retention rules, penalties, and how digital tools can simplify compliance.
How Much Land Do You Need for Chicken Houses in NI?
Planning a new poultry unit? Use our free calculator to work out your land bank requirements under the 170 kg N/ha NVZ rules for broilers, layers and turkeys — and see how phosphorus could become the limiting factor.