An Annan farm partnership has been served a £600 penalty for failing to properly maintain slurry storage.
Messrs William Forrest were penalised by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency after it was found they failed to comply with a General Binding Rule designed to protect the water environment from spills.
When SEPA officers visited the Dumfriesshire farm in January and February this year, they found that two slurry lagoons were full, and levels were not being managed in a way to maintain the required freeboard.
And Scotland’s environmental regulator is warning that failing to maintain equipment could result in financial consequences for others if they don’t comply.
Stephen Field, SEPA’s national rural unit manager, said: “Slurry is a valuable source of nutrients on the farm but if it’s not managed correctly and escapes from a storage system it can cause pollution to both surface and ground waters.
“In this incident, the 750mm freeboard level was not maintained, which greatly increased the risk of slurry over topping and escaping. It is a reminder of why it’s important that farmers are mindful of freeboard levels and what can happen if they are not maintained.
“Messrs William Forrest should have been aware of the regulatory requirements when it comes to the collection and storage of slurry on the farm.”
He added: “SEPA staff have undertaken extensive work, including pollution prevention inspections, in the Dumfries coastal priority catchment and have been working with the farming sector offering advice and guidance on how to become and remain compliant with the regulations.
“This civil penalty should act as a warning to others that we will take action against those who ignore Scotland’s environmental regulations. If you’re not sure what authorisations are required, get in touch with us, we’re happy to provide advice and guidance.”