Farmers should be aware of the rules which cover:

• Storing and applying fertilisers;
• Siting livestock feeders;
• Cultivating land adjacent to 'the water environment';
• Storing, preparing, applying pesticides; and
• Cleaning pesticide application equipment.

NFU Scotland’s Environment and Land Use Policy Manager, Andrew Bauer said: "Over a year ago, the Scottish Government consulted on changes to the Controlled Activities Regulations, in particular proposing changes to the General Binding Rules. NFU Scotland strongly opposed the proposed wording regarding fertiliser and pesticide application on sloping ground, pointing out that there was a high risk that it could be misinterpreted as a blanket ban on the application of these essential materials on any ground over 12 degrees.

"NFU Scotland is heartened that the Scottish Government has listened to our concerns about the wording of the original proposals, and has now brought forward changes to the General Binding Rules that are more risk-based and proportionate. These rule changes applied across the country as of 1 July 2013, and it is important that farmers acquaint themselves with them.

"NFUS knows this is a complicated subject and is working with the Scottish Government, SEPA and SRUC to produce a plain English guidance for farmers, crofters and land managers on their legal responsibilities for protecting the water environment. Until this is published later this year, questions can be addressed to NFU Scotland Head Office or local SEPA offices."