Sustainable Agricultural Land Management Strategy report (SALMS)
Read the full reportNorthern Ireland faces a significant challenge in farmland management, with only 10% of soils having up-to-date analysis and 64% not at optimum pH. Improving soil health is central to the strategy, as healthier soils are essential for achieving better yields, increased productivity, and improved environmental outcomes.
Northern Ireland’s grass utilisation is below optimal levels, and a significant portion of farmland lacks up-to-date soil analysis.
Only 10% of farmland has an up-to-date soil analysis, and 64% of soils are not at optimum pH.
Improving soil health is central to the strategy, as healthier soils will lead to better yields, increased productivity, and improved environmental outcomes.
Improved grass utilisation and quality will lead to greater farm profits and lower phosphorus balances.
Detailed baseline data and real-time monitoring will support targeted interventions and improved soil management practices.
Recommendations for policy implementation
- Conduct a publicly funded GPS soil sampling and analysis survey of all agricultural land. This initiative is aimed at translating soil analysis results into a four-year nutrient management plan, thus improving soil health and agricultural output.
- Implement a full aerial LiDAR survey to target water quality interventions and quantify above-ground biomass carbon sequestration.
- Establish real-time water quality monitoring in selected catchments and create farmer discussion groups to improve both water quality and farm profitability.
- Develop an online cloud-based decision support tool for farmers to access comprehensive personal data relating to their land.
Read the full report
Sustainable Agricultural Land Management Strategy report (SALMS)