An update on the Nutrient Management Planning Tool

Last month, we blogged about the launch of the Nutrient Management Planning Tool.  

This free online tool helps farmers plan and manage nutrient inputs, reduce costs, and keep records that support compliance with environmental regulation. 

The Nutrient Management Planning Tool helps farmers match inputs to crop and soil needs. 

The tool expands on the earlier PLANET and MANNER-NPK systems. It was created in partnership with ADAS, an independent agricultural and environmental consultancy that originally developed PLANET, along with RSK Business Solutions Ltd.

The project was supported by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).   

By prioritising the efficient use of all nutrient sources, the tool can help farmers navigate fertiliser price volatility. 

We’re pleased to say that more than 400 accounts have been established and over 2,000 plans have been created.

We recently introduced the ‘existing manure storage capacity’ function. 

The new functionality includes a calculation of existing manure storage capacity, giving users a clearer picture of the storage they already have in place. 

Adequate storage is particularly important during periods when land application is not appropriate, such as in winter months when the risk of runoff and nutrient leaching is higher. 

Ensuring sufficient storage helps farmers manage slurries safely throughout the year. 

Watch our webinar 

For more information about the tool, you can watch our recent webinar. 

Get involved 

Working closely with farmers and advisers has been important to us throughout the development of this tool. 

Farmers and advisers tested the tool on real farms over several months, sharing feedback to make sure it works well in practice. 

We want to keep improving the tool, and your feedback helps us do that. 

We encourage you to share your thoughts. You can leave a comment below or email us at NMPT@defra.gov.uk 

If you’d be happy to keep sharing feedback as the Nutrient Management Planning Tool develops, the best way is to join the Defra Farming Panel. This is completely optional, but it helps us make sure we’re testing improvements with the right people.

You can register your interest by emailing the panel manager, Sophie Werkshagen, at sophie.werkshagen@defra.gov.uk