The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has issued a reminder for farmers that there is "flexibility" available under concentrate crude protein limits in animal feed.

The department said it was issuing the reminder in response to recent weather conditions, and the delayed full-time turnout of livestock in many parts of the country.

The department is telling farmers, their advisors and feed mills that flexibility is in place regarding the concentrate 14% crude protein limit applicable from April 15 to September 30, 2026, as set out in the Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) for the Protection of Waters Regulation.

The measure is in place to reduce nitrogen surpluses during the main grazing season when good quality grass provides adequate crude protein for adult cattle.

However, the department said it recognises the primary importance of animal’s receiving a balanced diet in line with their conditions.

The requirement to limit concentrate crude protein to a maximum of 14% on an 'as fed basis' from April 15 to September 30 applies to all farmers feeding concentrates to dairy cows and other cattle aged over two years at grass.

The department noted that compliance is assessed taking into account the date the concentrate feed was purchased.

However, the department stressed that this requirement does not apply where cattle are not outdoors fulltime at grass.

Even in situations where cattle are at grass fulltime, the department said it will continue to allow for situations where a higher level of crude protein is required in concentrate to maintain animal welfare or to meet the animal's dietary needs.

In that scenario, the department will accept written confirmation from the feed supplier, a recognised ruminant nutritionist, or an accredited Farm Advisory Service (FAS) advisor, stating that a higher level of crude protein is required.

Records of purchased feed should include the quantities and types of concentrate feed, including crude protein content, fed to livestock on the holding.

These records should be maintained for five years and made available for inspection if requested.