by Chris Ashmore
Donegal County Council completed 146 farm inspections in 2025 under the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations, it was revealed this week.
The inspections concentrated on areas of the county where agriculture has been linked to poor water quality.
These inspections focused on farmyards, slurry and soiled water storage capacity, fertiliser use and minimisation of soiled water.
Farmers received advance notice through the post giving at least a week to prepare for the inspection, and a final report was issued after completion.
The main issues continue to centre around collection and holding of farm effluent and the control of soiled water in farmyards.
Council staff also completed 24 Knowledge Transfer talks to groups of farmers, through their Agricultural Advisors in 2025, focusing on water quality, farm inspections and best practice.
The target number of inspections for 2026 is 214.